Memorials and Urns
Honouring and Remembering — Your Way
After the funeral, many families begin to consider how best to honour and remember their loved one. There are two common options: a memorial, which is often a permanent tribute, or an urn, which holds the ashes after cremation. Each has its own purpose and meaning, and there is no single approach that suits everyone.
This page explains the differences, the choices available, and how Lodge Brothers can guide you through every step.
What Is the Difference Between a Memorial and an Urn?
Memorials
A memorial is a lasting tribute that marks a place of remembrance. It may be a headstone, plaque, bench, garden tribute, or another form of dedication. It is often installed in a cemetery, crematorium garden, churchyard, or another special location approved for memorials.
A memorial may include:
Memorials are typically permanent or long-term tributes. Families can visit them at any time, and they often become a meaningful place to return to in years ahead.
Urns
An urn safely holds cremation ashes. Some families keep an urn at home; others choose to scatter the ashes, inter them at a cemetery, or place them in a memorial garden. Urns come in a wide variety of designs and materials and can be personalised in many ways.
Urns are suitable when families:
Some urns are kept long-term, while others are used temporarily before scattering or interment.
Types of Memorials
Families may choose from a range of memorial options depending on location, rules of the burial ground, personal wishes and budget. Common memorial types include:
Our Memorial Masonry team can guide you through each option, including permitted materials, design rules, cemetery regulations and inscription styles.
Types of Urns
Urns are available in a wide range of styles and materials. You may wish to choose something traditional, discreet or expressive. Some of the most common types include:
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Traditional Urns
Made of wood, metal or ceramic. Suitable for home placement or interment.
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Scatter Tubes
Lightweight containers designed specifically for scattering ashes safely and easily.
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Biodegradable Urns
Made for eco-friendly burial or water release. These break down naturally over time.
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Keepsake Urns
Small miniature urns used to share ashes between family members or keep a small amount close.
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Decorative or Personalised Urns
Can include engraving, photographs, artwork or symbols that reflect the personality of the person.
Making the Right Choice
Choosing a memorial or urn often depends on how you wish to remember your loved one. Factors to consider may include:
Our team will explain all your options clearly so you can make decisions at your own pace.
Personalisation Options
Both memorials and urns can be personalised. Options may include:
Our memorial and urn specialists can help you explore suitable designs and provide guidance on fitting regulations.
Next Steps
Whether you are planning ahead, choosing now, or simply looking for information, we are here to help gently and clearly. We offer dedicated support through:
You can also speak directly with your local branch for guidance at any stage.
Our Commitment
However you choose to remember your loved one, Lodge Brothers will support you with dignity, clarity and care. Every decision is personal — there is no right or wrong approach. We listen. We guide. And we take care of every detail as if it were our own.
Lodge Brothers
Trusted since 1780
The Lodge Family Difference
From simple farewells to traditional funerals