Understanding the Expression of Wishes in a Last Will and Testament

Understanding the Expression of Wishes in a Last Will and Testament

When planning for the future, writing a last will and testament is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. However, many people are unaware that alongside a will, they can also prepare an expression of wishes—a non-binding document that provides valuable guidance to executors and trustees. In this blog, we’ll explore what an expression of wishes is, how it differs from a will, and why it can be a helpful addition to your estate planning toolkit. So What Is an Expression of Wishes? An expression of wishes (sometimes called a letter of wishes) is a written document that accompanies your will. Unlike your will, it is not legally binding. Instead, it acts as guidance for the people administering your estate, particularly in areas where you want to leave more personal instructions or suggestions. For example, you might use an expression of wishes to: Indicate who you would like to receive certain personal items Outline your funeral preferences or how you would like your burial or ashes handled. Provide explanations for decisions made in your will (e.g., unequal distribution) Suggest how money in a discretionary trust should be used Give guardianship guidance for minor children Why Isn’t It Legally Binding? The non-binding nature of an expression of wishes allows for greater flexibility. Because it is not part of your will, it can be updated without the need for formal legal proceedings or a new will. This is particularly useful if your personal preferences change over time, such as your funeral arrangements or relationships with beneficiaries. That said, executors and trustees are not legally required to follow the wishes expressed. However, they are likely to give them serious consideration—especially if the wishes are reasonable and clearly align with the intentions set out in the will. When Should You Use One? An expression of wishes is particularly useful in the following situations: Discretionary Trusts: If your will creates a discretionary trust, the trustees have broad powers to decide how the trust assets are distributed. Your expression of wishes can guide them on who should benefit and in what way. Complex Family Dynamics: In cases where there are children from previous relationships or estranged relatives, the letter can explain your decisions and potentially help reduce conflict or confusion. Personal Belongings: While valuable assets should be listed explicitly in your will, smaller or sentimental items may be addressed in a letter of wishes, particularly if they are to go to different people. Funeral Wishes: You can outline whether you’d prefer burial or cremation, what kind of ceremony you’d like, or any cultural or religious considerations. How to Write an Expression of Wishes There is no strict format, but a good expression of wishes should be: Clear and concise: Avoid ambiguity that could lead to confusion. Respectful in tone: Remember, this is guidance, not instruction. Signed and dated: This helps establish its authenticity and relevance. Updated as needed: Keep it current if your wishes or circumstances change. It’s a good idea to store the expression of wishes with your will and let your executor or solicitor know where it can be found. Final Thoughts While your will remains the legally binding cornerstone of your estate plan, an expression of wishes adds a personal touch and gives your executors and trustees a clearer picture of your intentions. Used wisely, it can help your loved ones make decisions with greater confidence and compassion during a difficult time. Read post
A Fiery Farewell: Honouring Antonio Carluccio with a Pyromusical Tribute

A Fiery Farewell: Honouring Antonio Carluccio with a Pyromusical Tribute

When the family of the late Antonio Carluccio – affectionately known as The Godfather of Italian Gastronomy – approached us with a unique request, we knew this wouldn’t be an ordinary display. The beloved Mushroom Chef, renowned for his appearances on the BBC’s Food and Drink and Two Greedy Italians, left behind a rich culinary legacy, over 20 cookbooks, and an indelible mark on more than 80 UK restaurants. Their vision? A breathtaking pyromusical tribute that not only celebrated his life but also included the symbolic scattering of his ashes over one of his favourite places. Music was central to the send-off, with classics like The Blue Danube and Rossini’s La Gazza Ladra setting the tone for a truly Italian celebration of life. Navigating the Unexpected On the day of the event, the weather had other plans. Strong winds blowing towards the audience posed a serious safety concern. With only hours to spare, we were faced with a difficult decision: move the site or cancel altogether. Thanks to swift collaboration and careful reassessment, we identified a more suitable launch point that still honoured the location’s emotional significance. Throughout, we remained acutely aware of the delicate nature of the occasion and the emotions running high among Carluccio’s loved ones. Teamwork Behind the Scenes Behind the scenes, the event came together through close coordination with multiple partners – from the production company to videographers and drone operators. Every element, from the first spark to the final note, was meticulously planned to ensure a smooth, respectful, and cohesive experience. A Tribute to Remember In the end, everything came together perfectly. The display unfolded flawlessly, with the sky dancing in time to the music. As Carluccio’s ashes were gently carried into the night, accompanied by the crescendo of classical masterpieces, the moment became more than just a display – it was a deeply personal farewell. Family and friends were left with a lasting memory: a celebration of a life lived with passion, flavour, and joy. Reflections This tribute to Antonio Carluccio is a shining example of what’s possible when technical expertise meets heartfelt intention. It showcased not only our ability to deliver under pressure, but also our commitment to creating experiences that resonate on a personal level. Sometimes, fireworks are more than just a spectacle – they’re a final gift, a final goodbye. Watch video here. Read post
Ashes to Ashes: how cultures around the world honour loved ones after cremation

Ashes to Ashes: how cultures around the world honour loved ones after cremation

When a loved one passes away, the rituals that follow are deeply rooted in culture, tradition, and belief. For those who choose cremation, the handling of ashes is more than just a matter of disposal—it’s an act of remembrance, reverence, and sometimes even celebration. From the rivers of India to the memorial forests of the UK, let’s take a journey across the globe to discover how different cultures honour the dead through ashes rituals. India: A Sacred Return to Nature In Hinduism, cremation is considered a crucial rite of passage that liberates the soul from the physical body. The ashes, known as asthi, are traditionally immersed in a holy river—most notably the Ganges. Families may travel great distances to perform this ritual, believing it helps the soul achieve moksha, or liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The immersion is often accompanied by prayers and offerings, blending grief with spiritual hope. Japan: A Family Affair In Japan, cremation is the norm, and the post-cremation ritual is precise and deeply symbolic. After cremation, family members use chopsticks to pass bone fragments from the ashes into an urn—a practice called kotsuage. The bones are picked up in a specific order, beginning with the feet and ending with the head, to keep the body "upright" in the urn. The ashes are then typically interred in a family grave, often during a memorial service held 49 days after death, reflecting Buddhist beliefs about the afterlife. United Kingdom: Tradition Meets Personalisation Cremation has become the most common choice for funerals in the UK, and ashes rituals have evolved in tandem with changing attitudes toward death. While many families still opt to inter ashes in cemeteries or crematorium gardens of remembrance, others are choosing more personal tributes—scattering ashes at sea, in woodlands, or on private land (with permission). The UK also sees a growing interest in biodegradable urns and tree-planting memorials, where ashes help nourish a new tree, symbolising life after death. Some families even incorporate ashes into memorial fireworks, jewellery or glass art, blending tradition with a modern desire for meaningful memories and keepsakes. Tibet: Sky Burials and Sacred Mountains While cremation is rare in traditional Tibetan practice (with sky burials being more common), when it does occur—especially for high lamas or monks—the ashes are often used to create tsa-tsas, small sacred sculptures or stupas. These spiritual items are placed in shrines or scattered at holy sites, continuing the spiritual journey of the deceased and serving as blessings for those who encounter them. United States: Personal and Creative Tributes In the US, where individuality often guides funeral decisions, ashes rituals can be highly personal. Beyond traditional urns and burial plots, some families scatter ashes in meaningful places—mountaintops, oceans, even sports stadiums (though not always legally!). Others turn ashes into keepsakes, such as jewellery, glass art, or even have them compressed into diamonds. For those who want to go out with a bang, ashes can be launched into space or incorporated into fireworks displays. Ghana: Honour Through Ancestry and Art In Ghana, while cremation is less common due to cultural preferences for burial, the trend is slowly gaining ground among urban populations. When ashes are involved, they are often kept in elaborate urns, and ceremonies centre around honouring ancestors. Ashes may be enshrined in family homes or ancestral altars, serving as a tangible connection to lineage and history. Scandinavia: Eco-Conscious Farewells In countries like Sweden and Norway, there's a growing interest in environmentally friendly funerals. Cremated remains are sometimes scattered in minneslundar, or memorial groves—peaceful natural spaces dedicated to remembrance. These groves allow for a collective, non-denominational way to honour loved ones, blending simplicity with sustainability. New Zealand & Australia: Indigenous Perspectives Among the Māori of New Zealand, traditional practices centred around burial, but with modern cremation options, some families now incorporate both customs. Ashes may be returned to tribal lands, with ceremonies that reflect both Māori spirituality and Christian influences. In Australia, some Aboriginal communities have embraced cremation while maintaining strong ties to ancestral land—ashes may be scattered in sacred sites or buried with ceremony and song. Conclusion: A Universal Act of Love Whether cast into sacred waters, held in jewelled urns, scattered in forests, or transformed into stunning and vibrant firework displays, ashes rituals reflect humanity’s enduring desire to remember, honour, and stay connected to those who have passed. Though the methods vary, the message remains the same: love does not end with death—it transforms, just like ash, into something that carries meaning forever. Read post
Ashes Among the Stars: The Rise of Memorial Spaceflights

Ashes Among the Stars: The Rise of Memorial Spaceflights

Not so long ago, the idea of sending someone’s ashes into space sounded like something straight out of science fiction. But today, memorial spaceflights are a real, moving, and increasingly accessible way to honour those we’ve lost—by giving them a final voyage among the stars. Whether it’s a brief trip to the edge of space, orbiting the Earth, or journeying all the way to the Moon or beyond, these symbolic space burials are capturing imaginations and hearts alike. As space travel becomes more advanced and inclusive, so too do the ways we choose to say goodbye. A Celestial Farewell At the core of memorial spaceflights is a beautifully simple concept: a small portion of cremated remains is sent into space aboard a rocket. The nature of the mission can vary depending on the family’s wishes: Suborbital flights reach the edge of space before returning to Earth Orbital missions circle the Earth and eventually re-enter the atmosphere Lunar or deep space journeys travel far beyond and are designed to remain in space indefinitely But it’s about more than just the spectacle. For many, sending ashes into space represents human curiosity, wonder, and our timeless desire to be part of something far greater—even in death. Famous Names Who Chose the Stars Over the years, several trailblazers have opted for a cosmic farewell, helping to shine a light on this once-niche practice. Unsurprisingly, many of them had close ties to space exploration or science fiction. Gene Roddenberry, the legendary creator of Star Trek, was among the first to have his ashes launched into space—an echo of the future he imagined. Majel Barrett Roddenberry, actress and fellow Star Trek contributor, followed in his footsteps with her own spacebound farewell. James Doohan, fondly remembered as “Scotty,” had his ashes sent into orbit on multiple missions—one final “Beam me up.” Nichelle Nichols, the groundbreaking actress who played Lt. Uhura, was also honoured with a celestial tribute. Gordon Cooper, one of NASA’s original Mercury astronauts, embarked on his final journey posthumously—true to his lifelong love of the stars. These weren’t just tributes to their careers—they were reflections of their passion, purpose, and personalities. From Private Tributes to Global Fascination Memorial spaceflights are no longer reserved for celebrities or space pioneers. Families around the world are now exploring this unique form of remembrance for loved ones who had a fascination with the cosmos, science, or simply a deep love for the night sky. Modern services often include: Live-streamed or in-person launch ceremonies Personalised capsules, engraved with names or messages Space-tracking apps so families can follow the journey in real-time This growing trend forms part of a broader shift towards personalised and alternative memorials, reflecting the changing ways we approach death, grief, and memory. Why It Captures the Imagination There’s something undeniably poetic about becoming part of the universe—floating silently above the Earth, orbiting endlessly, or sailing off into deep space. For some, it’s the ultimate return to nature. For others, it’s a way of fulfilling a lifelong dream. On a symbolic level, it speaks to something universal: that life is fleeting, mysterious, and achingly beautiful. Space becomes not just a final destination, but a canvas for memory, legacy, and love. A New Way to Say Goodbye: Ashes Balloons to the Edge of Space Alongside rocket launches, a newer and more sustainable option has emerged: scattering ashes using high-altitude balloons. These biodegradable balloons, filled with renewable hydrogen gas, carry a small, personalised vessel of ashes to altitudes over 100,000 feet—reaching the edge of space. At that incredible height, the ashes are gently released into the upper atmosphere, where they’re caught by stratospheric winds and carried around the globe. Over several months, they gradually return to Earth through rainfall or snowfall, becoming part of the natural cycle. It's a beautiful, planet-friendly way of combining space tribute with earthly renewal. Each launch is carefully documented, with onboard cameras capturing both the ascent and the moving moment of release. Families receive a bespoke memorial video, allowing them to witness the journey and keep a lasting visual tribute to their loved one’s final adventure. A Legacy Written in the Stars Memorial spaceflights might not be for everyone—but for those who feel a deep connection to the universe, they offer a powerful and unforgettable way to say goodbye. It’s not only about where we go after we die. It’s about how we’re remembered, the dreams we dared to dream, and the legacy we leave behind. Whether it’s a voyage into orbit or a silent drift through the heavens, resting among the stars is a bold and beautiful way to say: “I was here. I looked up. And now, I’m part of it.” Read post
Scattering Ashes in the Sky: A Unique and Meaningful Farewell

Scattering Ashes in the Sky: A Unique and Meaningful Farewell

When we lose someone dear, finding a personal and memorable way to say goodbye is deeply important. For many families, traditional memorials are giving way to more unique and heartfelt tributes — and scattering ashes in the sky has become one such beautiful option. A Celebration in the Sky While ashes have traditionally been scattered at sea or in meaningful locations on land, more and more people are turning to the skies for a final farewell that feels uplifting and symbolic. Watching ashes released into the open air brings a sense of release and peace, transforming a moment of parting into something full of light and remembrance. Fireworks: A Dazzling Display of Love One of the most breathtaking ways to honour a loved one is by incorporating their ashes into a specially designed firework display. These tribute fireworks can be filled with a small portion of ashes and launched high into the sky, where they burst into a spectacular array of colour and light. Each display can be personalised to reflect the life being celebrated — from favourite colours and music to quiet moments of reflection or joyful celebration. Whether shared with a small group or a larger gathering, an ashes firework display is a truly moving and unforgettable send-off. Drones: A Graceful Modern Tribute For those seeking a serene and innovative way to honour a loved one, drone-assisted ash scattering offers a unique and respectful alternative to traditional ceremonies. Drones equipped with specially modified release systems can carry cremated remains to a chosen location, where they are gently dispersed into the air. This method allows for precise and dignified ceremonies, even in remote or hard-to-reach places. Families can choose a meaningful location — perhaps a favourite hilltop, countryside spot, or coastal viewpoint — and watch the release from a peaceful vantage point nearby. Drone scatterings can be captured on video or photographed, creating a lasting visual memory of the occasion. The process is conducted in line with Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) regulations, ensuring both safety and environmental consideration. By combining thoughtful technology with symbolic tradition, drone ceremonies offer a quiet, elegant, and deeply personal way to say goodbye. Making It Meaningful Sky-based send-offs are more than just visual experiences — they are opportunities to celebrate a life, express love, and create a lasting memory. These modern memorials can be as bold or as understated as you wish, allowing for a farewell that truly feels personal. Things to Keep in Mind If you're considering a sky scattering, it’s important to work with experienced professionals who can handle both the legal and logistical aspects. Permissions may be required depending on the location, and it's essential to ensure ashes are handled with care and respect throughout the process. You may also wish to keep some of the ashes in a keepsake or share them among family members, while dedicating a portion to the sky tribute. There’s no single way to say goodbye — only the one that feels right for you and your loved one. Final Thoughts Whether through the brilliance of fireworks or the quiet beauty of a drone scattering ashes in the sky offers a deeply meaningful way to say farewell. It’s a chance to honour a life in motion — one filled with love, memory, and a lasting impression. Read post
Heavens Above Fireworks

Heavens Above Fireworks

Not only have we been extremely busy this past month preparing tribute fireworks and professional tribute firework displays for families across the U.K. in memory of their loved ones, we have also taken some exciting steps to expand our company through the purchase of Heavens Above Fireworks Limited. Since it’s incorporation in 2004, Heavens Above Fireworks has specialised in arranging ashes into fireworks and tribute firework displays on behalf of families and friends of loved ones. Over the years, we have built up a strong working relationship and friendship with Heavens Above Fireworks so it seemed only fitting for us to take steps to purchase and incorporate the company on the news of their director’s retirement. In addition to their offering of self-fire tribute fireworks and professional tribute firework display packages, Heavens Above Fireworks also became known as the U.K’s Master Distributor for Celestis Memorial Space Flights. Celestis is an American company that specialises in memorial spaceflights, offering families across the globe the opportunity to send some of their loved one’s ashes into space, and we are over the moon to be able to step into the shoes of Heavens Above Fireworks and continue this relationship with Celestis. Expanded product range Following our incorporation of Heavens Above Fireworks, we have also expanded our product range to include self-fire tribute firework packages for all budgets and continue to provide professional tribute firework displays for the friends and families of loved ones across the U.K. Our professional tribute displays can be specially designed to meet your individual requirements – whether that be a display choreographed to your loved one’s favourite song, or a display full of their favourite sports team’s colour – and our self-fire tribute firework packages consist of bespoke, quality-tested fireworks that will be sure to light up the night sky for your loved one. For more information on any of our tribute firework packages or Celestis’ spaceflight services, please contact us on sales@heavenlystarsfireworks.co.uk or call us on 01206 710777 for a chat with a member of our friendly and caring team. Read post
Celebrating your loved one’s life with fireworks

Celebrating your loved one’s life with fireworks

Here at Heavenly Stars Fireworks, we offer a wide range of services for scattering the ashes of your loved one or friend to help you provide them with a truly spectacular send-off into the skies! Nigel Claydon - Director - Heavenly Stars Fireworks We are a family-run business that has been helping families celebrate the lives of their loved ones through the incorporation of ashes into fireworks for a period of over 15 years, and our business has been built on the experience and success of our professional display and retail firework business - Dynamic Fireworks Limited - which was established in 1994 and is ranked as one of the leading firework companies in the U.K. From self-fire tribute firework packages to professionally-fired tribute displays, we have something to suit all budgets and needs, with a compassionate team on hand to help guide you through the whole process. Our self-fire packages have been specially designed to incorporate your loved one’s ashes into fireworks for you to fire at your own convenience, in a location of your choice. From beautiful multi-shot barrages to magnificent memorial rockets, all of our self-fire tribute firework packages can be found here. We also offer a range of professionally-fired tribute firework displays that each provide a stunning send-off for your loved one and takes the stress of organising a display away. Since our inception, we have fired professional tribute displays at multiple locations all across the U.K. – including national heritage sites and football stadiums – and each display can be tailored to meet your specific requirements, whether that be incorporating the colour of a loved one’s favourite football team, or choreographing the display to their favourite musical track, our friendly and caring team will be on hand to help you choose and design the perfect tribute firework display. And remember, we can always incorporate the ashes of your furry friends into our self-fire tribute fireworks or professional tribute displays too! For more information and advice in relation to our tribute firework services, please call us on 01206 710777 or complete an enquiry form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.   Read post