Most Beautiful Places to Spread Ashes: Mountains

on May 1, 2015

When considering different locations to spread ashes, don’t discount the mountains. Beautiful and serene, they provide the perfect final resting place for anyone who loved the Great Outdoors. From the snow covered peaks of the Grand Teton to the horizontal peak of Table Mountain in South Africa, you have options as to where to spread ashes. Selecting one location proves to be difficult, however, because each is so very perfect for ash spreading.

Here is a list of some of the most incredible mountains in the world to spread ashes on or near:

• Mount Shasta in Northern California. Located near the border of Oregon, the volcano is a favorite among New Agers. It’s a possibility for ash spreading.
• Ama Dablam in Nepal. Sharp contrasting angles of rock make this mountain easily recognizable. Snowcapped peak makes the angles even more noticeable. Ash spreading may or may not be permitted at this location.
• Mount Eiger in Switzerland. Among the more challenging rock faces to scale, the mountain is gorgeous to look at. Many climbers have perished attempting to climb Mount Eiger. You may want to spread ashes at the foot of it rather than on the mountain itself. Ash spreading shouldn’t be treacherous.
• Glacier National Park in Montana. Climate change is making many of the glaciers melt. If you want to see the park in all its glory, do so before 2030. It’s the perfect setting for ash spreading. Learn more about whether or not you can spread ashes by visiting the park’s website.
The mountains serve as one of the most beautiful places to spread ashes. Choose the location that is right for you and your loved one. The aforementioned list of suggestions are among the most breathtaking spots on the planet. Ash spreading is one way to honor a person, their love for nature, and the adventurous life they lived.
Keep in mind that not every country honors “last wishes.” Before you spread ashes on any mountain, make sure it’s permitted by asking the people in charge. Ash spreading may be frowned upon in some areas of the world so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Contact Baldwin Brothers

Casket burial is not for everyone. If you want to be cremated, Baldwin Brothers can help. Let your loved ones know that you want your ashes to be spread somewhere beautiful.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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How Funeral Pre-Planning Benefits You and Your Family

on July 28, 2014

While no one wants to think about dying someday, the fact is that death is inevitable for all of us. Rather than just pretending that we are never going to die, it only makes sense to think about this tough subject and make any decisions in advance. Here are four reasons why funeral pre-planning benefits both you and your family.

4 Benefits of Pre-Planning Funerals

1. You Will Have the Aspects of Your Service that You Want

Most people have some idea of what they want their funeral to be like. Whether you want a sad gathering of your closest friends and family or you want a grand party to commemorate your life, you deserve to have the funeral you want. Your family won’t be able to do the proper funeral planning if they don’t know what your wishes are, however, so be sure to let them know in advance.

2. You Will Spare Your Family the Grief of Funeral Planning

Funeral planning is a tough process, especially since your family will undoubtedly be very upset that you are gone. Save your family some of the grief and heartache by making as many preparations in advance as you can. While doing your funeral planning in advance won’t make the funeral planning process easy for them, it can make it easier.

3. You Will Minimize Fighting Between Family Members

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for fighting to break out during the funeral planning process. People are grieving and tensions are high. Help everyone to get along during the funeral planning process by getting as much of the process done in advance as you can. Then, no one will have anything to argue about.

4. You Can Have Things Ready to Go in Advance

While the funeral planning process trumps most everything else, it doesn’t change the fact that people are busy. Any planning that you can get done in advance is planning that your family members aren’t burdened with when you die.

Learn More

Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida helps you through every part of funeral arrangements. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we are prepared to cover all of your needs.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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Should You Send a Funeral Gift?

on July 20, 2014

While funeral gifts are not always expected, there are times when a gift may be appropriate. If you prefer to skip the traditional funeral home flowers and offer the grieving family something a little more meaningful, here are four great ways to do so.

Ideas for Funeral Gifts

1. Memorial Gifts

Instead of sending flowers to the funeral home, you may wish to send a monetary donation to a charity or an organization in the deceased’s honor instead. Common choices for where to send the money include an organization that is searching for a cure for the disease or condition the person died from, the college the person went to, or a cause that was near and dear to the person’s heart. It is appropriate to give the family a card at the funeral home letting them know about the donation.

2. The Gift of Help

Funeral planning can be a huge and overwhelming task for the family, especially as they are grieving the loss of their loved one. You can make life easier on them by offering the gift of time. Clean their house, watch their children, run an errand or make a few phone calls so the family can deal with the funeral home arrangements. They will appreciate this gesture immensely.

3. The Gift of Food

One of the best gifts to give a grieving family is the gift of food. Bring a meal by their home in the days before or after the service or volunteer to bring food to the funeral home for after the service. Bring paper plates to minimize clean-up as well. Any family would love this kind gesture.

4. Gifts for Children

Going to the funeral home can be especially difficult for young children who may not fully understand what is going on or where their loved one went. Getting a small gift for grieving children is a very sweet gesture. Appropriate gifts include a small stuffed animal, book or other quiet toy.

Learn More

Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida is an experienced funeral home that can help you through every part of your arrangements. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we have everything you could need to celebrate the life of your loved one.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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Celebrating All Stages of Life

on June 20, 2014

Traditional methods of a funeral service include a main ceremony for the individual that has passed away. However, many of the funeral arrangements today are expanding into a celebration of one’s life after they have died. This offers a light, warm and loving way to remember the individual that has passed away. Many that tie into these funeral arrangements are able to add in a personal touch to further remember the individual that has passed away.

Life Celebration in Funeral Arrangements

The funeral arrangements used for a celebration of life memorial are based on highlighting the individual’s key moments in life. Typically, one is able to look at different areas of their life and what was achieved. This is followed with the highlights in work, family and other achievements that have taken place. This part of the funeral arrangements is inclusive of looking at pictures, video and other collages that show the stages of life from the deceased.

Not only does the collage of one’s life add into the funeral arrangements for the celebration of life. Many will have memories and associations with the individual that they can share. It is also possible to add in music, poetry and other art forms that the individual may have loved. Adding in humor, celebration and life to the funeral arrangements offers a different perspective and memory of the individual who has died.

A Joyful Way to Remember a Life Well-Lived

If a friend or family has passed away, then creating funeral arrangements that celebrate their passing offers a different ceremony. Honoring the life of the individual with memories, achievements and with their favorite parts of life offers a different ending for the individual. Family and friends that add into these funeral arrangements are then able to have a different association with the passing away of the individual.

Learn More

Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida helps you through every detail of funeral arrangement. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we are prepared to cover all of your needs.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

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Funeral Etiquette

on March 17, 2014

Whether you have just lost a close, loved one or you are attending the funeral of a more distant acquaintance, exercising the right funeral etiquette is crucial. During this difficult time, it can sometimes be hard to decipher what the appropriate and inappropriate behavior is. Because of this, we have outlined some of the universal funeral etiquette musts. In this two-part blog series we will begin by discussing what preliminary action, if any, should be taken on your end upon hearing about the death of a loved one.

Tips for Mastering Funeral Etiquette:

Send a Token of Sympathy

Although it’s not required of funeral attendees to send flowers and notes, expressing their sympathy to the survivors of the departed, it is encouraged. Tokens of sympathy were traditionally expressed through flower arrangements, plants, or prepared food; however, we have seen a transition toward a preference for donations. Although many still appreciate the sentiment of a nice flower bouquet, contact the funeral home before sending anything to see if the family has expressed a preference.

Be Supportive

What may seem like a basic, straightforward task, like supporting survivors of the deceased, can sometimes prove difficult when you are mourning. Personal feelings aside, showing your support for the funeral arrangements loved ones make is always proper etiquette — it’s as simple as that.

Educate Yourself

Depending on the deceased’s personal beliefs and cultural or religious background, the surviving family may opt to celebrate the departed’s life in a manner that honors these traditions. Unfamiliar with a practice that is scheduled to take place? One of the best ways to show support and exhibit proper funeral etiquette is by educating yourself about end-of-life traditions you may be unfamiliar with.

How We Can Help

Need help maintaining proper funeral etiquette? Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida can help. With everything from flower arrangements to memorabilia and urns & caskets, we are prepared to cover your funeral needs.

Proudly Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

 

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Tips for Writing a Memorial Speech

on January 3, 2014

Memorial speeches can be difficult to craft, especially when you are coping with the loss of a loved one. At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society, we understand how difficult these times can be. Because of this, we have provided some tips that should make writing a memorial speech easier. A memorial speech is the perfect opportunity for you to pay your respects to the deceased, so you will want to be sure to make sure you have the tools you need to write a memorial speech that makes you proud.

Guidelines for Memorial Speech Writing:

Express Your Feelings

For many, the opportunity to share their feelings about the loss of a loved one acts as a helpful grief management mechanism. The memorial speech is the perfect outlet for doing just this; however, it is important to remember a few guidelines. For example, while the goal of a memorial speech is to express how you feel about the recently deceased, you will want to make sure your speech stays focused on this factor. Sometimes, people write a memorial speech about THEIR feelings, something that is inappropriate in these circumstances.

Touch of Humor

In times of adversity, everyone handles grief differently. If you feel up to the occasion, try integrating some humor into your memorial speech, especially if the deceased had a good sense of humor. Although you and other mourners are likely feeling sad during this period, humorous undertones act as a way to lift the spirits of those who are grieving. Again, it is important to use your judgement and not do anything that makes you uncomfortable. It is also best to err on the side of caution, not overdoing the humor during your memorial speech.

Keep It Conversational

When it comes to memorial speech writing, be sure to keep your tone conversational. The ability to engage with your audience allows for the messages in your memorial speech to resonate more with your onlookers. The trick? Keep your memorial speech conversational. Don’t worry that this tone will not undermine the importance of what you are saying. In fact, it will help you. When people are grieving, they often seek support from others, which makes it all the more important to approach your audience as a friend.

Learn More

The most important thing to remember during this process is that there is no right way to give a memorial speech. During this difficult time, listen to your heart, doing what feels best.

For information about our end-of-life preparation tips, visit our blog, or call (407) 569-0992 to speak with a professional at Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

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Tips for Choosing Cremation Jewelry

on December 17, 2013

Cremation jewelry serves as a way to honor the life of a deceased loved one. With so many styles available, we know it can be difficult to choose the cremation jewelry that is right for your needs. Although we cannot make this decision for you, we are here to provide you with considerations that should make the cremation jewelry selection process easier.

What to Consider When Selecting Cremation Jewelry:

The cost of cremation jewelry

The cost of jewelry should be the first outstanding factor that you consider when planning to buy cremation jewelry. Because there are so many jewelers, you have a number of options to choose from when it comes time to select something. This makes it important to have patience and shop around for cost-effective jewelers.

The kind of cremation jewelry

This is another very significant factor to keep in mind before choosing cremation jewelry. Cremation jewelry can be comprised of a number of things; it does not just need to hold the deceased’s ashes. Locks of hair or funeral flower remnants can both be used as alternatives or additions to cremation jewelry.

At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida, we know how hard it is to lose a loved one. And while cremation jewelry will not make your loss any less painful, it acts as an excellent coping mechanism. If you choose to purchase cremation jewelry, the above guidelines can help.

For details about cremation jewelry, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida at (407) 569-0992.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation, End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , ,

What Is Cremation Jewelry?

on December 9, 2013

Upon the passing of a loved one, surviving family members and loved ones all cope differently. For some, adorning him or herself or a mantle in cremation jewelry is a way to grieve over the loss of a deceased family member or friend. If you have recently lost a loved one or you are preparing for their passing, exploring the concept of cremation jewelry is a good idea. Why? Cremation jewelry is an excellent way to pay tribute to the life of the deceased.

What Is It?

Just as the name suggests, cremation jewelry is jewelry that serves to pay remembrance to a deceased loved one. The wonderful thing about cremation jewelry is the fact that it is available in a number of forms and materials. For example, cremation jewelry can take shape as a necklace, locket, bracelet, ring, or even a keychain. For an even more personal experience, consider customized jewelry.

Additionally, cremation jewelry can be made in a number of materials, such as glass, wood, gemstones, and other precious metals. The versatility of cremation jewelry enables it to match the specific needs of your deceased loved one. Something as simple as the inclusion of the decedent’s birthstone or an inscription with their favorite words to live by can be great ways to pay tribute.

What Makes Cremation Jewelry Special?

One of the things that makes cremation jewelry special is the fact that in addition to including special sayings or gemstones, they often include the ashes of your loved one. Typically, the jewelry is filled or infused with ashes. Alternatively, a lock of hair or memorial service items, such as flowers, are also included. What makes cremation jewelry special is your ability to design jewelry that honors your loved one how you see fit. Whether you choose to wear or display your cremation jewelry is something that remains your decision.

If you would like to honor a loved one with cremation jewelry, Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida can help. For details about our services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation, End-of-Life Preperations Tagged With: , , ,

Cremation Service Ideas For Your Loved One

on December 2, 2013

Although the thought of death may be unpleasant, it is important to consider cremation services before the death of a loved one. Planning ahead and exploring the options beforehand can help you and your family plan accordingly. There are a lot of options for cremation services, so it is important to thoughtfully consider which cremation services will best satisfy the deceased and their surviving loved ones’ needs.

Explore the Available Cremation Services:

When it comes to cremation services, there are a number of options available. However, generally, there are three recognized categories of cremation services, namely:

- Memorial cremation services

- Traditional cremation services

- Plain cremation services, without any ceremony.

Memorial Cremation Service

When it comes to cremation services, the memorial service is often favored because of the amount of discretion it affords the bereaved. Since the decedent need not be present at the memorial, these cremation services can be held at any religious place of worship. Here, tributes, songs, pictures, and other memorabilia are used to honor the deceased and to celebrate their legacy. The actual cremation process itself is also independent of the memorial service, increasing its flexibility and, consequently, its growing popularity.

Traditional Cremation Service

If it is your preference, there are more traditional cremation services offered. For instance, it is widely accepted for a ceremony to be held at a church or place of worship. Oftentimes, the deceased’s ashes are held in an urn that is displayed for their surviving loved ones. Usually, a traditional religious service is accompanied by words from loved ones, too. For something more formal and traditional, these cremation services offer excellent outlets for the deceased’s survivors.

Cremation Service Without Ceremony

Not all cremation services are religious. Sometimes, people choose to hold no service. This is usually the choice for those who are decidedly non-sectarian. After the unfortunate incident of death, the body is placed in a mortuary. Preparation for the cremation service is performed, then the actual cremation is carried out at the family’s direction. Although no public service is held, the family can still privately celebrate the life of the deceased. After the cremation service, the remains can be placed in an urn and surrendered into the family’s custody to retain, scatter, or keep in a columbarium.

Consider Available Cremation Services Now

When it comes to cremation services, there are a number of options available, which serve to satisfy the unique needs of the deceased and their surviving loved ones. At Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida, we know these times can be difficult. We can help, though.

Have you lost a loved one? For information about our cremation services, contact Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society of Central Florida.

Proudly Serving All of Central Florida.

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake - (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: Cremation Tagged With: , , ,

How to Write an Obituary for a Loved One

on November 26, 2013

If you have lost a loved one, you may be wondering how to write an obituary. An obituary encompasses many things, such as the notice of one’s death, their life story, a record of the family, information about the funeral service, or a thank you to those who helped the life of the departed. Although obituaries are written every day, they can sometimes be difficult for survivors to write upon the passing of a loved one. Unsure about how to write an obituary? Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society has details about how to write an obituary.

Tips About How to Write an Obituary:

If you are wondering how to write an obituary, basic information should be covered accurately and completely. If you are wanting other ideas about how to write an obituary, try including a compelling story about the deceased’s life that inspires other people to live their lives with more purpose and hope.

How to Write an Obituary Tip #1 - Accuracy & Completeness

The most important things in an obituary are accuracy and completeness. Although this may seem obvious, things become difficult when you aren’t certain about how to write an obituary. Despite this, it is important to preserve the memory of your loved one by way of the inclusion of accurate information. Fortunately, proofreading can help with this. As a rule of thumb, set aside the document, and look at it another day.

How to Write an Obituary Tip #2 - Recreate The Deceased’s Character

Knowing how to write an obituary is not second nature for most people, but it can be learned. In addition to being accurate and thorough, make an obituary interesting and compelling, focusing more on the life that was lived than the death that occurred. As a rule of thumb, think of writing an obituary as storytelling. This is your opportunity to let others learn about the life your loved one lived. Simply put: If you’re wondering how to write an obituary, think of it as a celebration of life.

Learning How to Write an Obituary Can Become Easy

By including accurate biographical and funeral-related information, as well as an all-encompassing summary of the individual’s life, obituary writing will be easier. During these difficult times, we understand that the last thing a deceased’s surviving family members or friends will want to do is learn how to write an obituary. By following these guidelines, you won’t have to stress.

For information about other end-of-life preparations, contact one of Baldwin Brothers Cremation Society’s locations.

Serving Central Florida

Winter Park – (407) 569-0992

New Smyrna Beach – (386) 957-1693

Lady Lake – (352) 639-2563

Filed Under: End-of-Life Preperations, Funeral Services Tagged With: , , ,
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