April 29, 2025 Why Columbariums Are a Smart Investment for Cemeteries and Sacred Places As more families choose cremation, many cemeteries, churches, and memorial gardens are taking a fresh look at how they meet people’s needs. One option that’s quickly gaining momentum? Columbariums. These are beautiful, above-ground structures designed to house cremated remains. At Sunburst Memorials, we create custom columbariums that not only offer families a peaceful place of remembrance but also provide our partners with a smart, sustainable way to serve their families and the community. Cremation Is Rising Cremation rates in the U.S. have now passed 60%, and that number keeps climbing (according to the Cremation Association of North America). What does that mean for your organization? Families are looking for more flexible, affordable options, but still want something meaningful. Others may prefer not to be buried. The option to be cremated offers a permanent, respectful place to honor their loved ones is just as important as ever. More Than Just Space-Saving: The Value of a Columbarium Adding a columbarium to your grounds does more than make the most of your space. It also gives families a contemporary memorial option while offering long-term benefits to your organization. While similar to a mausoleum, which also remains above ground, columbariums are for cremated remains only, rather than a holding space for bodies. When you work with Sunburst Memorials, you’ll get a personalized approach, with our team focusing on every detail so you can continue to focus on the families you serve. Columbariums also offer various benefits: • Steady, long-term revenue from niche sales. There is no limit to the number of niches a columbarium can include, which allows for scalability in both personal and community settings. • Aesthetic upgrades to your property, adding visual appeal and purpose. • A meaningful, sacred space that strengthens community connection. • Lower maintenance compared to traditional burial plots. Custom Solutions That Fit Your Community No two communities are alike, and that’s why our columbariums are fully customizable. Whether you envision a standalone garden unit, a wall-mounted design, or even a chapel-style structure, we’ll help bring your vision to life. We focus on creating durable, beautiful, and highly functional columbariums. We use high-quality granite and materials that are built to stand the test of time, ensuring each structure remains a lasting tribute for generations. Our designs are carefully crafted to complement your existing grounds and blend seamlessly with the surrounding architecture, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your space. Just as importantly, we prioritize functionality. A columbaria can hold a single urn or double urns, creating flexibility for families or couples. Everything from the internal layout to visitor accessibility is thoughtfully planned to ensure ease of use and a meaningful experience for those who visit. Why Now Is the Perfect Time If you’re considering expanding your facilities or looking for a thoughtful way to evolve your memorial offerings, now is a great time to act. A columbarium offers immediate value and long-term sustainability financially and emotionally. It’s a lasting way to serve your community for generations to come. At Sunburst Memorials, we believe in honoring tradition while embracing change. We’d love to talk if you’re ready to explore what a custom columbarium could look like for your space. We’re here to help you create a memorial space that’s functional, beautiful, timeless, and built with purpose.