The main difference between a traditional cremation funeral and a direct cremation is the funeral service and ceremony.
With a cremation funeral, a service takes place up until the cremation, which tends to include a procession with a hearse and pallbearers.
A ceremony would be held at the crematorium or church, led by a minister or celebrant, and attended by loved ones.
There may be funeral tributes such as flowers, music, photographs and a eulogy.
Whereas, with a direct cremation, there’s no funeral service or ceremony before the cremation and loved ones don’t attend.
However, similar to holding a wake after a funeral, family and friends may hold a memorial service following the cremation where they can pay tribute to the deceased.
The table below shows the services which tend to be part of a traditional cremation funeral and a direct cremation:
ServicesTraditional cremationDirect cremation Advice and guidance from a professional funeral planner[tick][tick] Collection, transportation and care of the deceased[tick][tick] Choice of time and date for cremation[tick][cross] Choice of crematorium[tick][cross] Choice of coffin[tick][cross] Family viewing at the chapel of rest[tick][cross] Hearse or choice of alternative vehicle[tick][cross] Funeral procession with option to have limousines[tick][cross] Ceremony at church or crematorium chapel on the day of cremation[tick][cross]