Question 1 of 520% complete
Question 1
What is most important to you?
All Funeral Types
Traditional Funeral
Full-service funeral with viewing, ceremony, and burial
3-7 daysHigh
Cremation with Service
Ceremony followed by cremation
3-7 daysMedium
Direct Cremation
Cremation without formal services
1-3 daysMedium-Low
Green/Natural Burial
Environmentally-friendly burial without embalming
2-5 daysLow
Memorial Service Only
Ceremony without body present
FlexibleVaries
Celebration of Life
Less formal gathering focusing on celebrating the person's life
FlexibleLow
Frequently Asked Questions
Main types include: traditional funeral (viewing, ceremony, burial), cremation with service (ceremony then cremation), direct cremation (no service), green/natural burial (eco-friendly), memorial service (ceremony without body present), and celebration of life (less formal gathering).
A funeral has the body present (in casket or urn). A memorial service is held without the body present - either after burial/cremation or when the body isn't available. Memorial services are often more flexible in timing and location.
A celebration of life is a less formal, more personalized gathering that focuses on celebrating the person's life rather than mourning their death. It often includes sharing memories, photos, favorite music, and may be held at a meaningful location rather than a funeral home.
Direct cremation is the simplest option - the body is cremated shortly after death without embalming, viewing, or formal service. The remains are returned to the family who can then hold a memorial service at any time or scatter the ashes.
Green funerals minimize environmental impact through: no embalming (or using eco-friendly fluids), biodegradable caskets/shrouds, natural burial grounds without concrete vaults, native plantings instead of headstones, and conservation cemetery settings.
Consider: the deceased's wishes, religious/cultural traditions, budget, environmental concerns, family's need for closure (viewing can help), flexibility needs, and desire for personalization. Our quiz helps identify the best fit for your situation.