Florida state law requires that the deceased be placed in a rigid combustible container at minimum. Many options are available - from simple fiberboard containers to full caskets - and your funeral director will walk you through every choice.

Absolutely. Cremation does not limit your service options in any way. You may have a full chapel service before or after cremation, a celebration of life, a graveside service, or any combination. The same meaningful ceremony is available to you regardless of your choice of cremation or burial.

Cremation reduces the body to bone fragments using intense heat over a period of approximately two to three hours. Florida law also requires a mandatory 48-hour waiting period before cremation can begin, which allows time for the family to confirm their wishes and ensures proper permitting.

You have many meaningful choices. Cremated remains (typically weighing 3–6 lbs) may be: placed in a decorative urn for display at home; buried in a cemetery plot; placed in a columbarium niche; scattered in a meaningful location; or divided - with a portion kept at home and a portion given to other family members. We are happy to help you think through the option that feels right for your family.

Many personal items may be included, though some may need to be removed prior to the cremation process due to safety or regulatory requirements. Anything placed in the casket will not survive the cremation. Your funeral director will advise you on exactly what may stay and what must be set aside beforehand.

Yes. We own and operate Space Coast Crematory, which means your loved one remains entirely in our care from the first call to the final farewell. There are no handoffs to third parties.

Throughout human history and across cultures, people have gathered to acknowledge the death of a member of their community. A funeral ceremony is often the one opportunity for everyone to come together - to acknowledge the loss, share grief, and begin the process of healing. The ritual itself is as much for the living as it is a tribute to the deceased.

The cost depends entirely on the services and products selected. At Island Cremations, our packages begin at $795 for direct cremation. We believe in transparent, all-inclusive pricing with no hidden fees - so your family can focus on what matters most. Visit our pricing page for a full breakdown of each package.

Generally, service details are published in the newspaper or shared online, and those who wish to attend do so. It's thoughtful to personally reach out to individuals who were especially close to your loved one. Use your judgment - think about who would want to be there to support the family and to honor the person who passed. Just ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate those expected.

The phrase means the family is offering an alternative way to express sympathy - typically a donation to a charity meaningful to the deceased. It does not mean you cannot send flowers. Only when the obituary specifically states "no flowers please" are guests asked to refrain from floral tributes.

Honesty and gentle preparation go a long way. Let them know what to expect - that people may be sad and cry, that there will be time for people to share memories. Encourage them to ask questions and reassure them you'll be with them throughout. Never force a child to attend, and always give them the option to change their mind.

A celebrant is a trained professional who helps families create meaningful ceremonies that reflect the beliefs, personality, and philosophy of the deceased. They are especially valuable for families without religious affiliations or a clergy connection. A celebrant brings no agenda or preconceived ideas - only a genuine desire to honor your loved one's story. Contact us if you'd like a referral.

It is never required - it is a personal choice. Many families find that viewing their loved one provides a sense of closure and confirmation. It can be a quiet moment to say goodbye, let go of unresolved feelings, or simply acknowledge the reality of the loss. Others choose not to, and that is equally valid. We will support whatever feels right for your family.

We offer a wide selection of caskets in wood and metal. Wood options include mahogany, walnut, oak, cherry, maple, pecan, and pine. Metal options include bronze, copper, stainless steel, and carbon steel - each available in a range of finishes and styles. For cremation, we also offer wood cremation caskets, hardboard caskets, and rental caskets. Urns are available in bronze, hardwood, marble, glass, acrylic, and more. We are happy to walk you through every option during your arrangement consultation.

Most cemeteries require an outer burial container - commonly called a vault - to protect the casket and maintain the integrity of the ground above. Requirements vary by cemetery, so we will confirm exactly what is needed for your chosen location. Vaults are also available for urn burial if you wish to provide added protection.

Yes - companion crypts and private family estates are specifically designed for families who wish to remain together. This is worth thinking about when selecting cemetery property, as it affects the size of the plot or crypt you'll need. We can help guide you through these decisions.

Yes. We offer eco-friendly casket options for families who are environmentally conscious. These combine natural materials with beauty and strength. Ask us for details on the specific options currently available.