Cremation
Choosing the right option
There are different types of cremation and it’s important to consider what fits best for you and your loved ones.
Direct cremation is an unattended funeral, arranged at the convenience of the crematorium, and includes the return of ashes. Recognising the importance for our families to say goodbye, we also include dressing and viewing opportunities. Not all funeral directors will offer this. Some of our families opt for direct cremation in conjunction with a same-day event that enables them to gather together and say goodbye
but not in the crematorium.
Standard cremations include an attended funeral service in a crematorium chapel. These can range from a simple no-fuss send-off, a traditional funeral with flowers, music, readings or something that is much more elaborate. For some families, this is the only event and others combine it with a celebration afterwards.
Ashes are returned a few days later.
Our team will help guide you and your family to the choice that best fits, taking all of these
considerations into account.
Watch our video designed to help anyone planning a funeral by showing what they can expect on the day. This is a guide only and the order of events are entirely flexible based on your choices.
Local Crematoria
Baldarroch Crematorium
Baldarroch is a purpose built chapel and crematorium in the heart of Aberdeenshire. The chapel is modern, light and airy with the wooden pillars and beams giving a natural look.
Aberdeen Crematorium
East of the city in tranquil woodland, Aberdeen Crematorium has two chapels accommodating 96 up to 270 people, a Memorial Chapel and Garden of Rememberance.
Urns & keepsakes
Arrange a Funeral FAQs
Is there a cost difference between a burial and cremation?
The choice varies depending on which part of the country you live in. Urban areas have good access to crematoria but burial ground spaces are increasingly limited. Conversely, rural areas have plenty ground but are further away from crematoria. The costs vary between the regions so call us to find out what the options are for your area of choice.
With family in many countries, can we arrange a small private funeral now and have a larger celebration of life on a different date - and can you help with both arrangements?
We can assist with all elements of event planning for a funeral including celebrations after - whether they are on the same day or at later date. Whether you want a simple tribute or an extravagant memorial event, we're here to help you and your loved ones.
Are we limited to the number of cars?
You can have as many cars as you like. Our fleet of limousines can be fitted with screens to comply with any social distancing restrictions set by the Government which will continually evolve. We can arrange as many cars, and even arrange alternative transport from luxury coaches to more individual alternatives should you require it.
I am worried about thanking everyone who attends...
We can help. As there are limits on who can attend a funeral, we offer online obituaries where people can leave online tributes and messages of condolence. You can provide details about the funeral before or add messages of thanks after and then link from your own social media. In the future, when larger numbers are once again allowed, we can provide attendance cards for mourners to sign or leave a message of condolence. We collate them for you after the funeral so you can focus on saying goodbye.
How long should we keep the ashes?
There's no right or wrong answer. Retaining ashes is a very personal thing. Some people want to scatter them at a later date, others can't bear to part with them. We can help by providing practical storage advice and guiding you to make the decision that is most fitting for you and your family.
Can we take the flowers home after the funeral?
You can keep or leave, all or part, of any tribute just as you please. Often a memento is taken by family members or sometimes sprays can be left at the graveside. There is no "rule".
