Caskets and Funeral Homes: What You Need to Know Posted on August 7, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes When arranging a funeral in funeral homes in Urbandale, IA, one of the significant decisions you’ll have to make is choosing the right casket. This choice carries emotional weight and importance in honoring your loved one. This guide will help you understand what you need to know about caskets and their role in funeral homes. Understanding the Role of Caskets A casket serves as the final resting place for your loved one and is central to the viewing and funeral service. It’s not just a container; it’s a symbol of respect and love, which helps the grieving process and serves as a tribute to the deceased’s life. Different Types of Caskets Caskets come in a wide variety of materials and styles, each carrying its meaning and significance. From traditional wood and metal to biodegradable materials, there’s a casket for every preference and budget. The Personal Touch: Customizing Caskets Caskets can be personalized to reflect the deceased’s personality, interests, or values. Choices about the material, color, and detailing of the casket can create a visual representation of the person’s unique life. Legal Aspects You Should Know Despite common misconceptions, the law does not require caskets for cremation or burial. Many states allow families to use alternative containers made of unfinished wood or fiberboard. Understand your rights when making these decisions. Respecting Traditions and Cultural Practices When selecting a casket, it’s crucial to consider any cultural or religious traditions that your loved one may have followed. Different cultures and religions have specific customs associated with death, including the type of casket used for burial. For instance, certain cultures prefer simple wooden caskets, while others may choose more ornate designs. Acknowledging these traditions can bring comfort to families, providing a sense of connection and continuity with the deceased’s beliefs and values. It can also help to foster a sense of community and shared mourning, as these practices often hold collective cultural significance. Be sure to communicate any specific cultural or religious requirements to your funeral home, ensuring these are respected in the funeral planning process. Choosing a Casket: Points to Consider Choosing a casket is a deeply personal decision. Beyond cost, it’s important to consider the deceased’s personality, beliefs, and lifestyle. The choice should also take into account the preferences of those who will be most affected by the loss. As one of the most trusted funeral homes in Urbandale, IA, Iles Funeral Home understands the importance of these decisions and is committed to providing the support you need during this time. We are here to help you select a casket that serves as a meaningful tribute to your loved one’s life. Get in touch with us at (515) 276-4567 to learn more about our services and how we can assist you during this challenging time. Our compassionate and experienced team will guide you through the process with utmost care and respect.
Understanding the Wide Range of Available Veteran Services Posted on July 24, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Honoring Those Who Served As a nation, we hold a deep appreciation for the brave individuals who have served in the military. Recognizing their sacrifices and contributions, it is essential to understand the wide range of veteran services available to support them and their families. In this article, we will explore the various services offered to veterans and their families, highlighting the importance of honoring their service. Funeral homes offering cremation services in Des Moines, IA are dedicated to assisting veterans and providing compassionate support during their final arrangements. Military Funeral Honors One of the most significant services available to veterans is military funeral honors. These honors are provided to eligible veterans and can include the folding and presenting of the American flag, the playing of Taps, and a rifle salute. Funeral homes work closely with military organizations to ensure that these honors are carried out with the utmost respect and dignity, paying tribute to the veteran’s service. Burial in National Cemeteries Veterans have the option to be buried in national cemeteries, which are hallowed grounds dedicated to those who have served their country. These cemeteries offer a final resting place that is beautifully maintained and perpetually cared for. Funeral homes can assist families in navigating the process of arranging burial in national cemeteries, ensuring that all necessary documentation and arrangements are handled appropriately. Veterans’ Benefits and Entitlements There are various benefits and entitlements available to veterans and their families. These can include financial assistance, healthcare benefits, educational benefits, and more. Funeral homes can provide guidance and support in understanding and accessing these benefits. They can help veterans and their families navigate the paperwork and documentation required to ensure that they receive the entitlements they deserve. Veterans’ Support Organizations Numerous support organizations are dedicated to serving veterans and their families. These organizations offer a wide range of resources, including counseling services, employment assistance, housing support, and more. Funeral homes can connect veterans and their families with these organizations, providing access to the additional support and assistance they may need beyond the funeral service. Personalized Veteran Tributes In addition to the specialized services available, funeral homes understand the importance of personalized veteran tributes. Each veteran has a unique story and deserves to be honored in a way that reflects their individuality and service. Funeral homes can assist families in planning personalized elements, such as incorporating military insignia, displaying medals, or creating photo displays that showcase the veteran’s military journey. Support for Families Finally, it is crucial to recognize that the families of veterans also require support during their time of loss. Funeral homes offer compassionate care and guidance to families, helping them navigate the complexities of funeral arrangements and supporting them in their grieving process. They understand the unique needs of veteran families and are dedicated to providing the necessary assistance during this challenging time. The range of available veteran services is extensive, honoring the sacrifices and service of those who have served in the military. Funeral homes offering cremation services in Des Moines, IA are committed to supporting veterans and their families, providing specialized services, personalized tributes, and compassionate care. If you or your loved one is a veteran in need of assistance, contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567. Their experienced team is ready to provide the support and guidance you deserve.
The Rising Popularity of Direct Cremation: Exploring the Reasons Posted on July 17, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Understanding Direct Cremation Direct cremation is a funeral option that has been gaining popularity in recent years. Unlike traditional funeral services, direct cremation involves the immediate cremation of the deceased without a formal viewing or ceremony. The cremated remains are then returned to the family. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the rising popularity of direct cremation and its advantages. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA are well-equipped to provide direct cremation services and assist families during this process. Cost-Effectiveness One of the primary reasons for the growing popularity of direct cremation is its cost-effectiveness. Traditional funeral services can involve significant expenses, including embalming, caskets, venue rentals, and more. Direct cremation eliminates many of these costs, making it a more affordable option for families. Funeral homes can offer direct cremation services at a lower cost compared to traditional funerals, allowing families to manage their budget effectively during a challenging time. Simplicity and Convenience Direct cremation offers simplicity and convenience for both the family and the funeral home. The process does not require elaborate funeral arrangements, allowing families to focus on the grieving process without the added stress of planning a formal service. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA streamline the direct cremation process, handling the necessary paperwork and logistics, providing a hassle-free experience for the family. Flexibility in Memorialization Contrary to the misconception that direct cremation eliminates the possibility of memorialization, it actually provides families with greater flexibility in how they choose to remember their loved ones. After the cremation, families can hold a memorial service, scatter the ashes in a meaningful location, or choose to keep the urn in their home. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA can assist families in planning memorial services or offer guidance on alternative ways to honor and remember their loved ones after direct cremation. Environmental Considerations The rising awareness of environmental sustainability has also contributed to the popularity of direct cremation. Unlike traditional burial methods that involve embalming chemicals and the use of land for cemeteries, direct cremation has a smaller environmental footprint. Cremation reduces the use of land and minimizes the use of resources. Funeral homes prioritize eco-friendly practices in their direct cremation services, ensuring a more sustainable approach to funeral arrangements. Changing Attitudes and Preferences Society’s attitudes and preferences towards funeral traditions have evolved over time. Many individuals and families are seeking more personalized and non-traditional options for their final arrangements. Direct cremation aligns with these changing preferences, offering a simpler and more individualized approach. Funeral homes recognize the importance of providing diverse options, including direct cremation, to cater to the evolving needs and preferences of families. Professional Support and Guidance While direct cremation offers simplicity, it is still important to have professional support and guidance during the process. Funeral homes, such as Iles Funeral Home, have the expertise and experience to provide compassionate assistance and ensure that the direct cremation is handled with care and respect. Their dedicated team can answer questions, address concerns, and provide families with the support they need during this time of loss. The rising popularity of direct cremation can be attributed to its cost-effectiveness, simplicity, flexibility in memorialization, environmental considerations, and changing attitudes and preferences towards funeral traditions. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA understand the advantages of direct cremation and can provide families with the necessary support and guidance throughout the process. If you are considering direct cremation or have any questions, contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567. Their compassionate team is ready to assist you and ensure that your loved one’s final arrangements are handled with care and dignity.
The Power of Personalized Memorials: Honoring Unique Lives Posted on July 10, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Embracing Personalization in Memorials When it comes to honoring the lives of our loved ones, personalization plays a vital role in creating a meaningful and heartfelt tribute. Personalized memorials allow us to celebrate the unique qualities, passions, and accomplishments of the person we have lost. In this article, we will explore the power of personalized memorials and how they can provide solace, healing, and a lasting legacy. Funeral homes offering cremation services in West Des Moines, IA understand the significance of personalization and can assist in creating truly memorable and personalized tributes. Reflecting the Individual’s Personality Personalized memorials reflect the individual’s personality and capture their essence. Whether it’s incorporating their favorite colors, displaying their cherished possessions, or showcasing their hobbies and interests, these elements help create a tribute that feels authentic and deeply meaningful. Funeral homes can work closely with families to understand the unique aspects of their loved one’s life, ensuring that the memorial truly reflects who they were as a person. Incorporating Meaningful Symbols and Rituals Symbols and rituals can add profound symbolism and meaning to personalized memorials. Whether it’s a religious symbol, a personal emblem, or a cultural tradition, incorporating these elements can honor the person’s beliefs, values, and heritage. Funeral homes can help families identify and integrate these meaningful symbols and rituals, allowing the memorial to serve as a true reflection of the person’s identity and journey. Customizing Visual Elements Visual elements, such as photographs, videos, and slideshows, can play a significant role in personalizing memorials. They offer an opportunity to showcase special moments, memories, and milestones from the person’s life. Funeral homes have the expertise to help families create visually stunning presentations that celebrate the unique story of their loved one. These visual elements serve as a powerful reminder of the life lived and provide comfort to those left behind. Interactive and Engaging Activities Personalized memorials can incorporate interactive and engaging activities that encourage participation and evoke memories. This may include storytelling sessions, memory sharing, or even creative workshops where attendees can contribute to a collective artwork or keepsake. Funeral homes can offer guidance and ideas for incorporating these activities, fostering a sense of connection and shared remembrance among attendees. Giving Back in Memory Personalized memorials can also provide an opportunity to give back to the community in memory of the person who has passed away. This may involve organizing charitable events, establishing scholarships or funds, or participating in volunteer activities aligned with the person’s passions and values. Funeral homes can assist families in identifying and organizing these acts of kindness, allowing their loved one’s legacy to live on through positive contributions to society. Creating Lasting Legacies The power of personalized memorials lies in their ability to create lasting legacies. They serve as a testament to the person’s life, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of those who attend. Funeral homes, such as Iles Funeral Home, understand the importance of personalized memorials and can provide the necessary support and guidance to help families create meaningful tributes that honor and celebrate their loved one’s unique life. Personalized memorials have the power to honor and celebrate the unique lives of our loved ones. Funeral homes offering cremation services in West Des Moines, IA are dedicated to assisting families in creating deeply personal and meaningful tributes. If you need guidance and support in personalizing a memorial for your loved one, contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567. Let their compassionate team help you create a lasting tribute that beautifully captures the essence of your loved one’s life.
Leveraging Grief Resources to Improve Mental Health Posted on July 3, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Understanding the Impact of Grief on Mental Health The experience of grief can have a profound impact on mental health. It is a complex and challenging emotion that can manifest in various ways, including feelings of sadness, anxiety, loneliness, and even depression. Recognizing and addressing the effects of grief on mental health is crucial for healing and finding support. Funeral homes West Des Moines, IA understand the importance of mental well-being during the grieving process and can provide valuable resources to help individuals navigate their grief journey. Seeking Professional Support One of the most effective ways to improve mental health during grief is by seeking professional support. Funeral homes can connect individuals with grief counselors, therapists, or support groups that specialize in providing guidance and assistance to those experiencing loss. These professionals can offer coping strategies, a safe space to express emotions, and tools to navigate the challenges of grief. By leveraging their expertise, individuals can find solace and improve their mental well-being. Grief Education and Workshops Grief education and workshops provide valuable resources for individuals seeking to understand and manage their grief. Funeral homes often organize educational events and workshops that address various aspects of the grieving process. These sessions cover topics such as coping mechanisms, self-care strategies, and ways to honor and remember loved ones. Participating in these educational opportunities can provide individuals with knowledge and tools to support their mental health throughout their grief journey. Supportive Communities and Online Forums Connecting with others who are going through a similar experience can be incredibly comforting and validating. Funeral homes can provide information on local support groups and community resources where individuals can find solace in the company of others who understand their grief. Additionally, online forums and virtual support communities offer a space for individuals to connect with fellow grievers, share experiences, and provide support. These communities can be accessed from the comfort of one’s home and can be a valuable source of comfort and understanding. Self-Care and Well-being Practices Prioritizing self-care and well-being is crucial when navigating grief. Funeral homes in West Des Moines, IA emphasize the importance of self-care and can provide resources and suggestions for practices that promote mental well-being. This may include engaging in activities such as exercise, journaling, meditation, or seeking solace in nature. Taking care of oneself physically, emotionally, and spiritually can contribute to overall mental health and aid in the healing process. When grieving the loss of a loved one, it is essential to prioritize mental health and seek the support needed to navigate the grieving process. Funeral homes are committed to providing valuable grief resources and support to individuals and families. If you require assistance or resources to improve your mental well-being during the grieving process, contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567. Their compassionate team can guide you to the appropriate grief resources and support services to aid in your healing journey.
How to Create a Cremation Plan that Reflects Your Values and Beliefs Posted on June 26, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Planning for end-of-life arrangements is an important and deeply personal process. If you have chosen cremation as your preferred option, creating a cremation plan that reflects your values and beliefs allows you to leave behind a meaningful legacy. Cremation provides flexibility in personalization, allowing you to design a service that honors your life, values, and wishes. With the guidance of cremation services in Urbandale, IA, you can navigate the planning process and ensure your final arrangements align with your unique preferences. In this article, we will explore how you can create a cremation plan that reflects your values and beliefs. Reflecting on Your Personal Values and Beliefs Before creating your cremation plan, take time to reflect on your personal values and beliefs. Consider what is most important to you and how you want to be remembered. Think about your spiritual or religious affiliations, cultural traditions, and any specific rituals or customs that hold significance in your life. Understanding these aspects will help you shape a plan that aligns with your core values and beliefs. Selecting the Right Cremation Services Provider Choosing the right cremation services provider is crucial in creating a plan that reflects your values and beliefs. Look for a reputable provider in Urbandale, IA, such as Iles Funeral Home, that offers personalized and compassionate assistance. Research their offerings, ask questions about their approach to customization, and ensure they can accommodate your specific requests and preferences. A supportive and understanding provider will guide you through the planning process and help you create a meaningful cremation plan. Customizing the Cremation Ceremony One of the advantages of cremation is the flexibility it offers in customizing the ceremony. Determine the type of ceremony you envision and how you want your life to be celebrated. Consider elements such as music, readings, speeches, or personal tributes that reflect your personality, achievements, and values. Discuss these ideas with your cremation services provider who can assist you in incorporating them into your cremation plan. Memorialization Options Memorialization provides an opportunity for loved ones to honor your memory and find solace. Explore various memorialization options that resonate with your values and beliefs. These can include scattering your ashes in a meaningful location, creating a personalized memorial plaque or headstone, or even opting for a living memorial such as a tree planting. Discuss these options with your cremation services provider who can provide guidance and assist you in making informed decisions. Communicating Your Wishes Creating a cremation plan that reflects your values and beliefs involves effective communication of your wishes. Share your plans and preferences with your loved ones, ensuring they are aware of your desires and the reasoning behind them. Consider documenting your wishes in a will or advance directive to provide clarity and avoid any potential misunderstandings. Open and honest communication will help ensure that your cremation plan is respected and carried out according to your wishes. Conclusion Creating a cremation plan that reflects your values and beliefs is an essential part of end-of-life planning. By reflecting on your personal values and beliefs, selecting the right cremation services provider, customizing the ceremony, exploring memorialization options, and communicating your wishes, you can design a plan that truly honors your life. Cremation services in Urbandale, IA, such as Iles Funeral Home, can provide the guidance and support you need throughout this process. Contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567 to receive compassionate assistance in creating a cremation plan that reflects your unique values and beliefs.
The Grieving Process in Different Cultures: A Comparative Look Posted on June 19, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes The grieving process is a deeply personal and culturally influenced experience. Across different cultures, traditions, rituals, and beliefs shape how individuals mourn the loss of a loved one. Understanding the variations in grieving practices can provide valuable insights into the diversity of human experiences and foster cultural sensitivity and empathy. Funeral homes in Urbandale, IA play a vital role in supporting individuals through the grieving process while respecting cultural customs. In this article, we will take a comparative look at the grieving process in different cultures. Western Funeral Traditions In Western cultures, such as those in North America and Europe, funeral traditions often involve visitations, funeral services, and burials or cremations. These ceremonies aim to honor the deceased, provide an opportunity for mourning, and offer support to the bereaved. Mourners often gather to share memories, offer condolences, and find solace in the presence of community and loved ones. Asian Funeral Rituals In many Asian cultures, funeral rituals are deeply rooted in ancient traditions and religious beliefs. Practices vary across countries and regions, but common elements include elaborate ceremonies, rituals, and mourning periods. For example, in Chinese culture, the funeral typically includes rituals to pay respects to ancestors and ensure a peaceful afterlife. Ancestor veneration, ancestral tablets, and offerings are integral parts of the grieving process. Indigenous Funeral Customs Indigenous cultures around the world have unique funeral customs that honor their heritage and spiritual beliefs. These customs often emphasize the connection between the living, the deceased, and the natural world. Ceremonies may involve rituals, dances, songs, and storytelling to commemorate the life of the departed and guide their spirit to the next realm. The grieving process in indigenous cultures is communal, involving the entire community coming together to support and console the bereaved. African Funeral Traditions Funeral traditions in various African cultures are rich in symbolism and cultural significance. These traditions often focus on celebrating the life of the deceased and guiding their spirit to the afterlife. Funeral ceremonies may involve singing, dancing, drumming, and storytelling. The community plays a central role in supporting the bereaved through expressions of condolences, acts of solidarity, and offering comfort during the grieving process. Conclusion The grieving process varies across cultures, reflecting the diversity of human experiences and the influence of traditions, rituals, and beliefs. Western funeral traditions, Asian funeral rituals, indigenous customs, and African funeral traditions all provide unique perspectives on mourning and honoring the deceased. Funeral homes in Urbandale, IA, such as Iles Funeral Home, are committed to providing compassionate support while respecting and accommodating diverse cultural practices. Contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567 to receive understanding and empathetic assistance in navigating the grieving process, irrespective of cultural customs or beliefs.
The Role of Music in Personalizing Funeral Services: Choosing Meaningful Melodies Posted on June 12, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Funeral services are an opportunity to honor and celebrate the life of a loved one who has passed away. One powerful way to personalize these services is through the selection of meaningful music. Music has the ability to evoke emotions, capture memories, and create a sense of connection. With the assistance of cremation services in Des Moines, IA, you can choose melodies that truly reflect the essence of your loved one. In this article, we will explore the role of music in personalizing funeral services and provide guidance on selecting meaningful melodies. Setting the Tone and Atmosphere Music plays a significant role in setting the tone and atmosphere of a funeral service. It can create a solemn and reflective ambiance or evoke feelings of joy and celebration. By carefully selecting music that resonates with the personality, interests, and values of your loved one, you can create an atmosphere that truly reflects their unique spirit and leaves a lasting impact on those in attendance. Reflecting Personal Preferences Choosing music that reflects the personal preferences of your loved one can be a powerful way to honor their individuality. Consider their favorite songs, genres, or artists. Think about music that holds special meaning to them or reminds you of cherished memories you shared together. Incorporating these meaningful melodies into the funeral service allows you to pay tribute to their unique tastes and passions. Evoking Memories and Emotions Music has the remarkable ability to evoke memories and emotions. Certain songs can instantly transport us back to specific moments in time or elicit strong feelings associated with our loved ones. Selecting melodies that hold sentimental value can create a deep emotional connection for attendees and provide a space for collective grieving and remembrance. Musical Tributes and Performances In addition to pre-recorded music, consider incorporating live musical tributes or performances into the funeral service. Live performances can add a deeply personal and intimate touch to the proceedings. Whether it’s a soloist, a choir, or instrumentalists, live music can create a powerful and moving experience that celebrates the life of your loved one. Conclusion Choosing meaningful melodies is a powerful way to personalize funeral services and create a lasting tribute to your loved one. Music sets the tone and atmosphere, reflects personal preferences, evokes memories and emotions, and allows for live musical tributes. Cremation services in Des Moines, IA, such as Iles Funeral Home, are available to assist you in selecting meaningful music that truly captures the essence of your loved one. Contact Iles Funeral Home at (515) 276-4567 to receive guidance and support in creating a personalized and memorable funeral service that honors and celebrates the life of your loved one.
The Importance of Documenting Your Final Wishes Posted on June 5, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes Documenting your final wishes is a critical step in ensuring that your end-of-life preferences are honored and that your loved ones are not burdened with difficult decisions during an already challenging time. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA play a vital role in assisting individuals with the documentation process and providing support throughout the journey. In this article, we will explore the importance of documenting your final wishes and highlight how funeral homes can assist you in this important task. Ensuring Your Wishes are Honored By documenting your final wishes, you have the opportunity to express how you would like to be remembered and how you envision your funeral or memorial service. Whether it’s specific religious or cultural traditions, preferred music or readings, or your desire for cremation or burial, documenting these preferences ensures that your wishes are known and respected, providing peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Reducing Family Burden One of the greatest benefits of documenting your final wishes is the reduction of emotional and decision-making burden on your family members. Losing a loved one is already a difficult and emotional time, and having a clear understanding of their wishes eliminates guesswork and potential conflicts among family members. Documenting your final wishes relieves your loved ones from making difficult decisions during a time of grief and allows them to focus on honoring and remembering you. Personalization and Individuality Documenting your final wishes allows you to infuse your personality and individuality into your funeral or memorial service. Whether it’s choosing specific readings, selecting meaningful songs, or incorporating personal mementos, documenting your final wishes enables you to create a truly personalized and unique tribute. It ensures that your funeral or memorial service reflects who you are and the life you lived, leaving a lasting impression on those who attend. Legal and Financial Considerations Documenting your final wishes also addresses legal and financial considerations. By working with funeral homes, you can ensure that your documentation is legally binding and valid. Funeral professionals can guide you through the necessary paperwork, including the creation of a will, pre-arrangement plans, and outlining any specific instructions for the handling of your estate. Taking care of these considerations in advance provides clarity and eases the administrative burden on your loved ones. Conclusion Documenting your final wishes is a significant and meaningful step in planning for the future. It ensures that your preferences are honored, reduces the burden on your loved ones, allows for personalization and individuality, and addresses legal and financial considerations. Funeral homes in Des Moines, IA, such as Iles Funeral Home, are available to assist you with this important task. Contact them at (515) 276-4567 to start documenting your final wishes and gain peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be respected and fulfilled.
Tips For Maintaining A Memorial Garden Posted on May 22, 2023 by ilesfuneralhomes When you go with cremation services in West Des Moines, IA for a loved one’s final services, it’s an honorable thing to do for them. Once that process is complete, you can do whatever you want for them. Many families have a memorial service, for example. You might want to honor your loved one in other ways, too, like by creating a memorial garden. If you did just that, you will want to maintain that memorial garden as the years go by. Here are a few things you will want to do. Remove Leaves in The Fall The leaves are going to fall in the autumn and you are going to want to enjoy the colors, but also remove the leaves from the memorial garden area. You can blow them out of the garden, rake, or gather them in bunches and put them into bags for disposal. Leaves often make good mulch, so you could crunch them up and use them as plant coverage over the winter months, too. Protect Plants In The Winter Some plants are meant to die out in the winter and you will simply replace them when the spring comes around. Other plants might need to be dug up and stored over the winter. And then, there are plants that will come back on their own in the spring. However, the Iowa winters can be harsh and you might need to protect the plants that are more sensitive to the snow, frost, and cold temperatures. That might mean covering certain plants with insulated cones, placing mulch on top of the plants, or simply covering the area with a cloth and stamping it down. The plants can flourish the next season when treated right in the winter. Add New Life In The Summer During the summer months, you might want to add a little color and new life to the memorial garden. Add some beautiful annual flowers around the edges, surrounding the memorial bench, or in other areas of the garden. If you have bushes or other things that have died out, remove and replace them. Summer is prime planting time and a great time to make changes to the garden as a whole. Prune In The Spring In the springtime, it’s a good time to take notice of what winter did to the memorial garden. You will want to prune back dead branches, replace flowers that need replacing, and perhaps add some new things. This is a good time to plant seeds that can grow into the summer months as well. If you have created a memorial garden for your loved one after their cremation services in West Des Moines, IA, you are going to want to keep that garden looking nice as the years go by. It can be a great way to honor them in an ongoing way. Gardens can be a lot of work, though, and you can ask family, friends, and others to help you maintain things if you need the help.
