Can You Have a Cremation with Visitation?

A popular misconception about cremation is the disposition method doesn’t support traditional services like visitation or viewing. This is not true. Cremation services in Manhasset, NY, can be combined with visitation and other funeral events. 

All arrangements can be customized and personalized to fit specific wishes, but there are three distinct ways to have both services: 

• Traditional Cremation 
• Witnessed Direct Cremation 
• Cremation with Memorial Service (with Visitation) 

We explain how each one works and the families that will benefit from them the most. 

Traditional Cremation 

This arrangement is for families who want an elaborate visitation event with an open casket. Traditional cremation is a lot like traditional burial. Each funeral event is observed, with the cremation happening after the funeral service. 

The body is embalmed, dressed, and placed in a temporary casket fit for public viewing. Family and community members can visit, see the body and pay their condolences to the bereaved. 

The primary advantage of going with this arrangement is there’s enough time for everyone to see the body. A traditional cremation supports a visitation that lasts for hours or days for families who want to give everyone a chance to see the body. 

But it’s an advantage that requires a high budget. Even though it’s less costly than a traditional burial, traditional cremation is the most expensive cremation service. This is due to the cost of embalming, preparing the body, and funeral home services. 

Witnessed Direct Cremation 

A cost-effective alternative is a direct cremation. There’s no funeral service to arrange, and the body goes straight to the crematorium after the passing. However, despite the shorter timeline from death to cremation, there’s still room for a simple visitation. 

Family and friends who live close to the place of death can visit to see the body before the cremation professional arrives. You can use the short window for a committal service where a religious leader offers a parting prayer. 

Another option is to see the body at the cremation center. Some funeral homes offer witnessed cremation service where a close group is allowed to see the body and the beginnings of the cremation process. 

Visitation under this arrangement occurs over a shorter period than traditional cremation. But if you want to save money, have a more extended visitation, and don’t mind if the body isn’t present, there’s a third option. 

Cremation with Memorial Service (with Visitation) 

After receiving the ashes, you can hold a visitation before the memorial service or celebration of life. The cremated remains can be present in the urn for everyone to see and pay their respects while offering condolences to the surviving family. 

You can have the visitation hours before starting the memorial service or combine both and have them simultaneously. 

These are the general ways you can have a cremation with visitation. The right option depends on the deceased’s wishes and your budget. 

Whatever you decide, we’re here to help. We provide a range of cremation services in Manhasset, NY, each personalized to the family’s wishes. Our kind and caring staff are here to deliver whatever works for you. Call us now to speak with our funeral director and get started.