Fireworks filled memorials

UPDATED 2/23/18: Unfortunately, at this time both of the U.S. suppliers mentioned are no longer offering the service. We will provide an update if we become aware of a new source.

I have been fascinated by fireworks all of my life. I even attempted a science fair project to create fireworks but the school turned down my submission due the “explosive nature” of the project. But I never thought about combining my enthusiasm for fireworks with my role as a funeral director involved with cremation. At least not until now.

Independence Day goes hand-in-hand with fireworks displays. Millions of Americans make plans, pack picnic baskets, show up early and then impatiently wait until the sun goes down and the sky lights up with colorful explosions. But some families are now taking this same approach to celebrate the life of their cremated loved one.

Most of us relate fireworks to celebrations (4^th of July, New Years, major sporting events). So it should not be surprising that some people are now associating fireworks with celebrating the end of a life. In fact, they take it a step further and incorporate a loved one’s remains into a fireworks celebration.

Personalized memorials are increasing in popularity as family members and friends step away from traditional funeral services and opt for personalized remembrances. For those that choose cremation, the options are extensive. Many of the commonly known options are cremation diamonds, cruise ship scatterings and blown glass art. But cremation fireworks are also legitimate option.

Companies such as Heavens Above and Angels Flight  and Heavenly Stars Fireworks all provide memorial displays. The companies take a small amount of remains and incorporate them into the building of the fireworks. Depending on the family’s wishes, they can have a professionally launched display or choose to purchase memorial fireworks that can be launched themselves.

Companies, such as Angels Flight outside of Los Angeles, California, offer a complete package including taking family members on a yacht to have their memorial service and then watch as the fireworks display is launched over the water. The prices are right in line with many traditional funeral services with prices starting at $4,250 to watch the display on the beach to $5,500 from a yacht. Just like most personalized memorials after cremation, the options are vast.

So how do you wish to be memorialized? Whether it is for yourself or your loved one, if you want something truly unique and special, take the time to let others know. aCremation is an ideal provider for those considering the non-traditional memorials as we provide the cremation service and then return the cremated remains so the family can coordinate the memorial in their own unique way.

About Mary Beth Barnett

Mary Beth Barnett is a licensed Funeral Director in Texas. Her involvement with aCremation began before our doors opened – researching how we could provide affordable cremations and still keep quality and service standards high. Through this process, she developed a passion for working with families who are going through one of the most stressful phases of life – planning for death.