We’ve all heard a friend or loved one say something along the lines of “I don’t want a fuss when I die” or, more jokingly (we hope) “just bury me at the back of the garden.” While minimalistic burials are common and increasingly popular due to the high costs of funerals in 2024, direct burials are their own genre. Let’s take a look at what a direct burial is, potential benefits and drawbacks, and everything else you need to know.
Direct burial is a straightforward process where the body is buried shortly after death, typically within 24-48 hours, without a formal viewing, visitation, or ceremony. While it offers simplicity and lower costs, it's quite different from a green burial in the UK, in terms of environmental impact and lasting legacy.
The process usually involves:
If your budget is a problem, we get it. Times are hard, and direct burials are naturally going to appeal to those looking to minimise funeral expenses. But why are direct burials so much cheaper? Put simply, they eliminate costs associated with embalming, viewing, and ceremonies, which can significantly reduce the financial costs during an already difficult time.
As we alluded to in our intro, some people just don’t want a fuss. Whether they feel that elaborate ceremonies don't align with their personal values, or wish to spare their loved ones the stress of planning a traditional funeral, many people simply prefer to go for the no-frills option.
While it’s true that direct burials do use fewer resources than traditional funerals, if eco-friendliness is your primary concern, direct burials aren’t necessarily the best option. This is because they still use conventional caskets and take place in traditional cemeteries with maintained lawns and concrete vaults. Instead, you might want to opt for a green burial or a natural burial.
With the above points in mind, there are some drawbacks in opting for a direct burial:
The quick timeline of direct burial can make it difficult for distant family members to say goodbye - there's also no opportunity for viewing or gathering before the burial, which can make the grief process feel rushed.
As the focus of a direct burial is on efficiency rather than creating a meaningful memorial space, there are few - if zero - options for personalisation.
Direct burial plots are subject to conventional cemetery rules and maintenance requirements, which can be restrictive and costly over time.
In some cases, it’s normal for families to later wish they'd chosen an option that provided more opportunity for remembrance and reflection, such as a natural burial or churchyard burial.
At Inspired Meadows, we believe that a minimalist end-of-life choice doesn’t have to be rushed or impersonal. Our natural burial grounds offer a meaningful alternative that goes beyond the limitations of direct burial, while still cutting costs associated with traditional funerals:
Unlike standard cemetery plots, our burial grounds provide a permanent sanctuary. Each plot is secured for 999 years, ensuring your resting place remains undisturbed for generations to come. Imagine your great-great-great-great grandkids being able to pay you a visit!
Our plots are ten times larger than industry standard, so you’ll have ample space for loved ones to visit and reflect. Plus, each plot has its own unique address, which aside from being wholesome, also makes it easy for your family members and loved ones to find your place in our meadowland.
Remember that episode of Gilmore Girls where grandma-in-chief Emily boots out a nasty aunt from their family burial plot to make room for Rory? Yeah, that’s not just for rich people in films and on TV! You can reserve plots for your entire family, as well as your cherished pets.
Maintaining a churchyard plot can be costly, so we offer a one-time fee of £175 which covers ongoing maintenance of your plot.
Look - we know times are tough, and end-of-life planning probably wasn’t on your financial to-do list. But with flexible payment plans, you can ensure that your after-life planning doesn’t fall into someone else’s hands. For a meaningful, environmental final resting place, choose Inspired Meadows.
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