Cremation Urns: A Guide to Selection

December 26, 2016

Cremation services offer many advantages, and one of them is the uniqueness available in cremation urns. Cremation urns are highly customizable and allow you to honor the deceased in a personal and expressive way. Here are some of the options to consider when choosing from the selection of cremation urns.

Size

There are several sizes of cremation urns. When determining the size of urn you will want to take two primary things into consideration.

  1. The first thing to consider when selecting a size of urn is whether or not you are going to be traveling with it. If you choose to take the cremated remains somewhere to scatter them, you will likely want to choose a smaller, more durable urn for better portability and protection, but still large enough to contain all the cremains. Your funeral director can show you the size necessary to hold all of the cremains.
  2. The second consideration is whether or not you want to share the cremains with several family members. If you choose to separate them, you will not require as large a cremation urn. Remember that the size of the urn will also impact where it can be displayed.

Color & Style

There are many different colors and styles of cremation urns, and many individuals will select one in the favorite color of the deceased. You will also want to consider where and if the urn will be displayed, and select a color and style that goes with its surroundings.

Material

Choosing the material of your urn will not only impact the look and color of it, but also the where it might be displayed. If you are displaying it indoors, almost every material is available to you. On the other hand, if you wish to display or inter the urn outside, you will want to select a durable material that can withstand the elements and climate change. Outdoor cremation urns are often made out of metal or stone.

If you are planning to scatter the cremated remains at sea or in a river or lake, you can choose a biodegradable urn so it can break down in the environment without causing any harm.  Again, your funeral director can show you numerous options and styles.

Cremation Urns Are Personal

Choosing a cremation urn is a personal choice, that’s why there are so many options to choose from. The most important thing is that the urn you choose is meaningful to you and that you feel honors and represents the deceased.

 

To learn more about urn selection, go to our products page at tharpfuneralhome.com

March 31, 2026
Planning ahead isn’t always something we naturally gravitate toward—especially when it comes to end-of-life decisions. It’s easy to put off, to say “someday,” or to assume there will always be more time. But preplanning your funeral or cremation arrangements is one of the most thoughtful and meaningful gifts you can leave behind for the people you love. What Is Preplanning? Preplanning is simply the process of making your final wishes known ahead of time. This can include decisions about burial or cremation, the type of service you’d like, music, readings, and even the small personal touches that reflect your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, even a simple plan written down can provide clarity and comfort when it’s needed most. Why More Families Are Choosing to Plan Ahead 1. It Relieves Emotional Burden When a loved one passes, families are often faced with dozens of decisions in a very short time, many of them while navigating deep grief. By preplanning, you remove that weight. Your family won’t have to wonder what you would have wanted, they’ll already know. 2. It Protects Your Family Financially Funeral costs can add up quickly depending on services selected. Preplanning gives you the opportunity to guarantee certain services and merchandise, avoid future inflation, and prevent overspending during emotional decision-making. 3. It Ensures Your Wishes Are Honored Every life is unique and every service should reflect that. When you plan ahead, you can choose burial or cremation, select meaningful music or readings, and include personal touches that tell your story. 4. It Gives You Time and Control Planning in advance allows you to make decisions thoughtfully and without pressure. There’s no urgency. No rushed decisions. Just clarity and confidence. 5. It Brings Peace of Mind Knowing everything is taken care of allows you to focus on what matters most: living fully and spending time with loved ones. Preplanning Doesn’t Have to Mean Prepaying You have options: document your wishes, set aside funds gradually, or explore pre-need plans or insurance options. Families are guided through these choices with no pressure—just support and information. A Simple Step Today Can Make All the Difference Tomorrow Preplanning is about easing the path for those you love. It gives them space to grieve, remember, and heal—without added stress. Ready to Learn More? Click here to get started. Whether you’re ready to start a plan or simply have questions, speaking with a preplanning specialist can help you explore your options in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. Because the greatest gift you can leave behind isn’t just memories—it’s peace of mind.
By Missy Hardenburg February 9, 2026
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