Recently, I found myself reminiscing about the early days of our business. Within moments, I was re-imagining what life was like back in 2014 or so. Around that time, we introduced the idea of custom designed, 3D printed urns to an audience of funeral professionals. It was a daring, new suggestion to an industry that would either love it or hate it. This took place at one of their trade association events called ICCFA in Las Vegas.
We were incredibly nervous about attending this show with our new idea. Questions and worries ran through our heads and ranged from “What if they don’t love our idea?” to “What in the world do you even wear to a funeral professionals’ trade show in the first place?” bounced around in our heads. We had to be honest with ourselves while also staying positive. Let’s face it. It can be very nerve racking to roll your new idea out to the world. It feels like the ultimate make-it-or -break-it moment. What if the world doesn’t love it as much as you do? What if giving an urn meaning will backfire on us?
With all our anxieties about the outcome, it turned out better than we could've expected. After we presented our innovative idea to the audiences at ICCFA about what gives an urn meaning, everyone ended up loving it. Those we spoke to said we had revolutionized a product category that hasn’t changed in thousands of years. When consumers were choosing an urn, it was no different than choosing a spatula. They all were similar and varied only slightly between one another. We proposed something drastically different. We were on to something, and it was big.
However, we quickly realized that there was only one problem. We had unintentionally broadened the term “custom” or “custom urn” to an incomprehensible point. When people in the funeral service industry thought of custom urns, their minds went to color options, the stock art available for engraving, name inscriptions, and so on. Urn meanings are sentimental but could be personalized only so much. Basically, there were already custom elements, but they were confined to a library or collection of items. As with a charm bracelet, you could have whatever you wanted, but it wasn't limitless.
And there we were telling everyone that a custom urn no longer meant you had to choose either the blue, green, or floral patterned one.
With us, custom means you can have ANYTHING you want. The only limit is the person's capacity for creativity and elements to bring to the design table.
Urn Selection
For many, the idea that they can have anything they want with an urn meaning is a freeing notion. A typical funeral event is fraught with compromise. Instead, we are providing families with one part of this arrangement where they can have exactly what they want to express their loved one’s (not to mention their own) legacy. Many people appreciate that sentiment when they are choosing an urn.
As we've seen with many other decisions in life, there is a real dynamic called the paradox of choice. Simply put, it means when confronted with too many choices, the decision becomes harder and slower, and people often end up choosing the easiest option. In their mental exhaustion, they completely miss the best choice for them, or they make no decisions at all.
With a memorial-type item, the paradox of choice can be a real enemy.
We want to make it easy for all of the families we serve to create urns with meaning. Everyone deserves to have a commissioned item that delights them. To those of you who know exactly what you want, whether you have pictures of it or you can visualize it in your head, we say bring it on! A creative challenge is part of why we do what we do.
We're no stranger to suggestions, so for those who need a little guidance when choosing an urn with meaning, here are some things to consider when you think about the perfect expression of legacy for your loved one or yourself down the road. In fact, about one-third of our customers are already planning ahead to ensure their legacies are presented the way they wish to be remembered and appreciated for who they are.
Personalizing an Urn
What was a favorite hobby or pursuit of passion? What was the person you are trying to memorialize doing when they were not busy with the things they had to do? Did they read? Did they travel? Did they skateboard? Did they sew? What are some items or personal effects that represent those hobbies or passions? A favorite book? Hiking boots? Their favorite car? What accomplishments were they most proud of in their life? These questions will highlight potential creative elements to be included in a meaningful urn.
What were the things that you did together? What memories stand out to you as a core memory you’ll cherish forever?
A custom and thoughtful urn meaning isn’t just for the person who has passed away. It’s also for those left behind. What are some of the activities or things that were enjoyed together? A motorcycle ride in the country? An amazing bottle of wine?
This point may very well be the most important one.
Partner with Foreverence Today
Grieving is a personal process. It’s different for everyone. But there will come a day when the thought of the person we have lost brings a smile to your face instead of a tear to your eye. And when that day comes, what is an expression of life and legacy that would bring you joy?
The process of choosing an urn begins with a friendly conversation. Whether a loved one has recently passed or you’re envisioning your own memorial, contact Foreverence today. Our mission is to empower you and help you create a beautiful legacy of a life well lived.
