We are so sorry for your loss. This gentle guide will help you explore meaningful options for your loved one’s ashes.
Work your way through the questions below. When you’re ready, press the button at the end to see a personalised recommendation — including pros and cons.
Section 1: About Your Loved One
1. Which of these best describes your loved one?
2. How would you describe their personality?
3. Were there places they particularly loved?
4. Did they ever express wishes about their ashes?
5. Would they prefer natural or traditional settings?
Section 2: How You Want the Farewell to Feel
6. How would you like the moment to feel?
7. Do you want the moment to be calm and controlled?
8. How comfortable would you be scattering the ashes yourself?
9. Are you worried something could go wrong?
10. How important is a smooth, dignified farewell?
Section 3: What You Want to Do With the Ashes
11. What options appeal to you?
12. Do you like the idea of combining options?
13. Would you like an option that returns them to nature?
14. Would you like to keep a small amount of ashes?
15. What matters most?
16. Do you want something with minimal stress?
Section 4: Emotional & Practical Considerations
17. Would you regret it if the scattering didn’t go well?
18. Would you like a professional to handle everything?
19. Would a tribute video mean a lot to you?
20. Would you like the ashes released in a calm, symbolic way?
Your Recommended Options
These are the suggested paths based on the themes of your answers. Choose the one that feels most right for you and your loved one.
Most Recommended
Aerial Ashes Ceremony – A Calm, Dignified Farewell
Best for you if: peace, dignity and avoiding regret are important.
This ceremony uses a drone to release your loved one’s ashes gently over a beautiful natural setting — often the sea or countryside. Families often describe it as the moment they finally felt calm.
Pros:
A fully dignified, peaceful farewell.
No emotional pressure — everything is done for you.
Option for a beautifully edited tribute video.
Cons:
Professional service fee.
Needs booking in advance.
Common Choice
Aerial Ashes Ceremony + Keepsake Jewellery or Tattoo
Best for you if: you want both a meaningful goodbye and something personal to keep.
You can keep a small amount of ashes for jewellery or a tattoo while still holding a beautiful Aerial Ashes Ceremony for the rest.
Pros:
You don’t have to choose — you can have both.
A deeply personal keepsake and a shared family farewell.
Cons:
Dividing ashes requires planning.
Separate costs for each service.
Keepsake Option
Keepsake Jewellery, Artwork or Tattoos
Best for you if: having a physical reminder feels most important.
You can keep some ashes in jewellery, glass art, or even tattoo ink — and still have an Aerial Ashes Ceremony with the rest if you wish.
Traditional
Burial or Interment
Best for you if: a fixed place to visit feels comforting.
Please Read
DIY Scattering – Personal, But Can Lead to Regret
Some families choose to scatter ashes themselves. However, many tell us afterwards that they felt anxious, pressured, or disappointed if the moment didn’t feel how they hoped.
Only consider this if you feel completely confident.
Next Steps
Here are some simple, gentle next steps to help you move forward:
Visit the Aerial Ashes website for examples, videos and gentle guidance: www.aerialashes.co.uk
If you’re considering keepsake jewellery, here are some trusted UK providers: • Ashes Into Glass – High-quality glass jewellery • EverWith – Wide range of cremation jewellery • Aura-Star – Crystal jewellery made with ashes
If you would like a calm, private chat about your options, you can contact us anytime. We’re here to help guide you, gently and without any pressure.