In-Ground Burial – The Traditional Cemetery Burial Option
As the most traditional burial choice, in-ground burial typically involves a casket and is marked by a memorial tribute. Below ground burials are usually preceded by a funeral service, or a graveside service at time of burial is another option.
Below ground burial is the right choice for you if:
- You prefer traditional cemetery burials
- You want to be memorialized alongside other loved ones
- You want outdoor visitations
- You want loved ones to place flowers and other decorations at the site
- You want a marker or monument
Green or Natural Burial
Green Burial is a personal choice for those who seek to minimize their impact on the local and global environment. For people who are mindful of the cyclical nature of life, green burial is a spiritually fulfilling alternative to conventional burial or cremation. It is an environmentally sensitive practice: the body is returned to the earth to decompose naturally and contribute to new life.
The cost of the natural burial will vary after all considerations are discussed, but people do tend to think this is an inexpensive and this is not exactly true. You still require professional staffing, documentations and registration, funeral vehicles, preparation and safe keeping, casketing or shrouding etc.
You do need to have a good understanding of what green burial will mean to your survivors so we have provided some information that you will want to reflect upon before making this decision.
- You cannot be embalmed, your body must remain in a natural state. Some cemeteries require all cotton clothing and only allow what would be considered biodegradable clothing. If a death has occurred and this is your option, we will ensure that you meet all the requirements when making final arrangements.
- You are not required to have a casket, and if that would be your choice then only biodegrade options are available to you. You can be buried in a simple shroud but this must also meet the requirements of the cemetery and safety of staff.
- It is extremely important that you discuss this with your family so that they understand any limitations or restrictions that this may incur.
- You cannot be buried alongside your loved one. Natural burial places go row by row so as to make minimal disturbance to the earth
- Cremation is not allowed. This means that if you want a natural burial and your partner wishes cremation, you cannot be buried together.
- There may be religious consideration and one should discuss this as well.