What’s a crowing ceremony? In crowning ceremonies held before cremation services in South Holland, IL, a crown is presented by a family member or officiant and then placed on the deceased’s head inside the coffin. 

 Those in attendance also sing group songs and hymns, give sympathies to the family of the deceased, and generally celebrate the deceased’s life on earth. The act of a crowning ceremony, even removed from the context of homegoing, is to offer a final gift of grace to the deceased which they may not have received in life, serving as a recognition of their importance in the lives of others and a crowning of the life they lived. You can also view a crowning ceremony as a way to put a more positive spin on a traditional funeral, making it an event that allows for the wide range of emotions that come with losing a friend, family member, or loved one. 

 But what about the main part of the crowning ceremony: the crown? Crowns used in funeral crowning ceremonies are usually provided by the funeral home. Most providers have some in stock meant to be loaned out during ceremonies and services. However, some bereaved choose to purchase a crown specifically for their lost loved one. Some of the most common types of funeral crowns include: 

1. Flower Crowns – Flower crowns and hand-woven head wreathes are great for crowning ceremonies as they are beautiful, natural, and have a long-standing tradition in memorializing the dead. In ancient European societies, unmarried women who died were given flower crowns to symbolize and bless their new lives as brides of Christ.   
   
2. Costume Crowns – Costume crowns and tiaras, like those found in Halloween shops or accessory stores, are flashy and bright, making them ideal for use in funeral crowning ceremonies. If you choose a costume crown for a crowning, look for ones with lots of rhinestones for a lustrous, eye-catching effect. 
   
3. DIY Crowns – People who are deeply affected by the death of a loved one may find comfort in the act of making a funeral crown for the deceased. DIY crowns can also be made to perfectly suit the deceased and what made them unique, serving as a symbol of their individualism, achievements, or another aspect of their lives. If you choose to make the funeral crown, be sure you communicate it with your provider and bring it to them well in advance of the ceremony. 
   
4. Wooden Crowns – Wooden funeral crowns are natural yet powerful. They can symbolize a connection to the earth as well as wisdom, strength of spirit, and other qualities of the deceased. As wooden funeral crowns are less common, it may be difficult to find one to purchase and therefore it might be best to make your own. 

 We are happy to put our expertise to use if you want to learn more about funeral crowns or South Holland, IL cremation services. Call or visit us today for more information on what we can do for you in your time of loss.