NFDA Releases 2025 Cremation & Burial Report: Comprehensive Insights to Guide the Future of Funeral Service

Brookfield, Wis. – The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) has released its “2025 Cremation & Burial Report,” the most comprehensive analysis of consumer disposition trends available to funeral service professionals. The report shows the U.S. cremation rate is projected to reach 63.4% in 2025, more than double the burial rate of 31.6%.

Through state-by-state U.S. projections, as well as data from Canada and worldwide, the report provides funeral directors with the reliable, research-based insights they need to anticipate change, identify opportunities and serve families with confidence. 

The “NFDA Cremation & Burial Report” not only offers accurate statistics and projections, but also the broader context that funeral professionals need to make informed decisions for their businesses and the families they serve. 

Key Findings From the 2025 Report

• The U.S. cremation rate is projected to reach 63.4% in 2025, more than double the burial rate of 31.6%. By 2045, cremation will account for 82.3% of dispositions, while burials will decline to 13.0%.
• All 50 states and the District of Columbia are projected to surpass a 50% cremation rate by 2035.
• In Canada, cremations are expected to rise to 91.2% by 2045.
• Nearly 36% of member firms already offer online cremation arrangements, with another 25% planning to do so within four years.
• NFDA-member firms continue to identify the availability of qualified personnel as their greatest business challenge over the next four years. 

The report goes beyond statistics, incorporating analysis of economic conditions, workforce challenges, consumer preferences and funeral home operational trends. By putting cremation and burial projections in context, NFDA provides members with a sharper, more complete picture of how the profession is evolving and what it means for the future of service. 

Accessing the Report and Other NFDA Research 

The 2025 NFDA Cremation & Burial Report” is available free of charge to NFDA members and for $175 for nonmembers. Funeral professionals can download the report at  NFDA.org/Research.  At NFDA.org/Research, funeral professionals can also access a wide range of free NFDA studies and reports, including:

• “Across Borders, Across Traditions: A Global Study of Funeral Preferences” (2025): The first-ever global survey of consumer opinions on funerals, offering insights across countries and cultures.
• “Changing Consumer Preferences: A Generational Perspective on Attitudes Toward Funeral Service” (2025): A groundbreaking study on generational attitudes toward funeral service and evolving expectations.
• “Business Practices Study” (2025): An exploration of how funeral directors are adapting business practices in light of increasing cremation rates.
• “Consumer Awareness and Preferences Survey” (2025): Findings from NFDA’s direct-to-consumer research on evolving funeral service preferences.
• And many more. 

These resources are part of NFDA’s ongoing commitment to provide funeral service professionals with high-quality, independent research to help them make informed business decisions and deliver meaningful service to families. 

About the National Funeral Directors Association 

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association representing 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit NFDA.org.

The National Funeral Directors Association predicts that the percentage of people in the US who choose cremation will increase to over 80% by 2045.

Planning ahead or navigating a recent loss can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through the service and cremation process so you can make choices that feel right for you and your loved ones.

Whether you’re exploring options for the first time or reviewing plans already in place, clear information makes a difference in Fort Worth. Below, we’ll walk through some of the most crucial details to keep in mind.

Making Decisions After a Loss

The days after losing someone often feel overwhelming. Emotions are high, and the pressure to make arrangements quickly adds to the stress. That’s why many families lean on trusted guidance when making end-of-life arrangements.

There’s no right or wrong way to begin. What matters most is choosing a path that brings peace to you and your loved ones.

What to Expect From the Process

Once you decide to move forward, you’ll meet with someone who will walk you through your options. They’ll explain each step clearly so nothing feels rushed or unclear.

Most people find comfort in knowing they don’t have to handle everything on their own. Professionals will help coordinate imperative details like:

• Filing necessary paperwork
• Transporting the person who has passed
• Scheduling a time for services
• Helping you choose an urn or keepsake
• Setting up space for gatherings

Having this kind of support helps families focus on remembering their loved one instead of managing logistics.

Different Paths for Honoring a Life

Families have more choices than ever before. Some prefer a quiet farewell, while others want something more structured and traditional.

The right choice depends on what feels respectful and comforting. That could mean a small private ceremony or a public event where many people gather. What matters is that the service reflects the person being remembered.

Personalizing the Experience

Details matter when saying goodbye, and a favorite song or a shared memory can shape the mood and tone of the day. Families often choose from different memorial options that bring comfort and meaning. Common ways people personalize include:

• Playing their loved one’s favorite music
• Displaying meaningful items like artwork or clothing
• Sharing stories from friends and family
• Lighting candles in their memory
• Providing a space for written messages

These small touches often leave lasting impressions and help people feel more connected.

How Families Can Prepare Ahead

Planning ahead offers more control and fewer surprises. It also lifts some of the burden from those left behind. When people take time to make decisions early, they often feel more at peace.

It allows for reflection and thoughtful planning rather than urgency. This kind of preparation is especially helpful when considering cremation planning, which can involve several choices about timing and handling.

Choosing Between Traditional and Modern

Some families are drawn to the familiar structure of a classic funeral. Others prefer simple and modern ceremonies. The choice often depends on:

• Values
• Culture
• Personal beliefs

There are meaningful differences between approaches like cremation vs burial, and it’s helpful to learn about both. Some common comparisons include:

• Physical resting place versus portable urns
• Cost differences between services
• Environmental impacts
• Religious or cultural customs
• Length and type of ceremony

Understanding these contrasts can make the decision feel more informed and thoughtful. It can also reduce stress.

Understanding the Role of Professionals

Experienced professionals can be a steady presence in an otherwise uncertain time. They will:

• Listen
• Explain
• Ensure everything runs smoothly

Many families feel more relaxed knowing someone else is handling the small but crucial details. Whether it’s managing paperwork or organizing the space, professionals help create a respectful atmosphere. Their involvement often makes everything feel more manageable.

Ways to Bring People Together

Gatherings offer a moment of connection. They provide space for people to:

There are many different ways to hold these events, and each one can be tailored to fit the tone and wishes of the family. Some gatherings look more like celebrations, while others feel more reflective. Supportive services can include:

• Shared meals or receptions afterward
• Photo displays or memory tables
• Guest books with personal messages
• Live or recorded music
• Candle-lighting or other rituals

When these pieces come together, the result often brings comfort to those who attend.

Creating a Peaceful Setting

The space where the service takes place can shape the emotional tone. Quiet music and natural light will help people feel more at ease.

Families can choose from different locations, including dedicated service centers or more personal spaces like homes or gardens. The setting should feel calm and respectful. Even small changes, like flowers or soft lighting, can make a difference.

Helping Loved Ones Find Closure

After everything is complete, the emotions often settle into something more reflective. Many people find it easier to process their loss once they’ve had a chance to say goodbye.

Some choose to mark the moment with a lasting memory or a simple gesture. Others find comfort in revisiting the service later through photos or written words. Funeral services help create a beginning for healing.

Red Flags to Avoid

Pushy sales tactics or rushed decisions are never a good sign. If a provider won’t give you clear pricing or avoids your questions, that’s a reason to walk away.

Vague descriptions or pressure to upgrade should also raise concerns. Pay attention to how they treat your concerns, as dismissiveness is a red flag. A reliable provider will:

• Explain everything
• Respect your pace
• Let you decide without pressure

Look for:

• Honesty
• Patience
• Transparency

Avoid anyone who focuses more on selling than supporting. The process should feel respectful and clear, not confusing or rushed. Trust your instincts when something feels off.

Handle Your Service and Cremation Options with Care

No two lives are the same, and no two farewells need to be, either. Understanding your service and cremation choices can help you create something personal and peaceful.

Since 2004, thousands of Dallas-Fort Worth families have trusted our transparent, affordable service and cremation packages. Starting at $795, we offer online arrangements, 24/7 support, and full-service options with no hidden fees. You can get in touch with us today to learn more about how we can help.

December 23, 2024

Grief is a journey that no one wants to traverse, yet it is a path many will find themselves on when a loved one passes away. As we contemplate the profound impact of loss, it’s vital to recognize how we can reach out and support our friends during their times of sorrow. Understanding our role can foster connection and compassion, especially in a world filled with emotional challenges. When we think about navigating this sensitive subject, finding the right balance between offering support and respecting personal space is essential, particularly as families often seek services from adjacent resources, such as Rochester, NY funeral homes. Understanding Grief and Its Phases Before we can effectively support our grieving friends, we should take time to understand the grieving process itself. Grief is not linear and encompasses various emotions and phases: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. The upheaval following a loss can bring about tumultuous feelings, and it’s important to remember that your friend may oscillate between these stages throughout their journey. A critical way that we can help is by being present. Sometimes, your friend may need a listening ear more than they need advice. Allowing them the space to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment can be incredibly beneficial. It may be helpful to encourage them to share funny or touching memories they have of their loved one, a practice that can provide moments of solace amidst the turmoil. Offering Practical Support Helping a friend through grief also means offering practical assistance. Grieving can be an exhausting and overwhelming experience, leaving little energy for everyday tasks. Offer to help with simple chores—cooking meals, running errands, or helping keep things organized at home. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there, offering to shoulder some of life’s burdens, can alleviate the stress your friend is feeling. In addition to offering tangible help, suggesting options from local services can also ease the burden. For instance, if your friend needs support in navigating funeral logistics, it’s wise to mention reputable funeral homes, that they could consider, like Rochester Cremation. Knowing that compassionate professionals are available can bring reassurance and peace to their difficult journey. Creating a Comfortable Environment for Healing When it comes to helping a grieving friend, creating an environment that allows for open conversation is critical. While checking in on them is appreciated, remember to approach them sensitively. Each day might feel different for your friend, so the time you spend together should evolve based on their needs and feelings. Inviting your friend out for a walk—some fresh air can aid in emotional healing—might help distract them from their grief, although it’s essential not to force social interaction if they seem disinterested. The simplest gestures, like a text message to let them know you’re thinking of them, can go a long way, even if they don’t respond immediately. Respecting Boundaries and Understanding Signs of Need While offering support, it’s just as vital to acknowledge when to step back. Everyone’s process is unique, and not everyone is comfortable discussing their grief openly. Pay attention to their cues; if they seem withdrawn or if they indicate a desire for solitude, honor that choice. Encourage professional support if needed. Whether it’s suggesting a grief counselor or attending a support group together, prioritizing their mental health by finding professional help can be a game changer. Informing them about available local resources shows that you care and are looking out for their well-being. The road following a loss is fraught with challenges. Yet, knowing we can play a role in transforming a friend’s grief reality can inspire hope. In conclusion, as we support our friends during these heartbreaking times, let’s embrace compassion and understanding, remembering our larger community as we navigate the journey together. If you have questions regarding resources or services through Rochester, NY funeral homes, reach out for help. The existence of compassionate professionals at places like Rochester Cremation highlights that support is always within reach.

Coping with the loss of a loved one is an emotionally tumultuous journey. Amidst this whirlwind of emotions, finding peace after the final farewell through cremation can seem like an uphill battle. As a trusted provider of Rochester, NY cremation services
, we understand the profound impact of such a loss and have compiled this in-depth guide to help you traverse this difficult path.

Unraveling the Complexities of Grief

Grief is a multifaceted emotional response to loss, typically characterized by profound feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, and even guilt. It’s crucial to recognize that every individual’s grief journey is distinctive – there’s no predefined route or timeline for grief.

The Five Stages of Grief: A Roadmap

Eminent psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross delineated five stages of grief – denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Recognizing these stages can provide a valuable framework for understanding your emotions, though it’s important to remember that everyone navigates these stages differently – some may not even experience all of them.

Embracing Healthy Coping Strategies

Adopting healthy coping strategies
is vital during this emotionally charged time. This could mean leaning on friends and family for emotional support, joining a grief support group, seeking solace in spirituality, or turning to a professional grief counselor. Physical activities, such as taking walks, practicing yoga or even just deep-breathing exercises, can also help manage the physical manifestations of grief.

Honoring Your Loved One’s Memory

Finding ways to honor your loved one’s memory can provide comfort and healing. This could be as simple as dedicating a place in your home to their memory, engaging in activities they loved, or creating a memory box filled with items that invoke cherished memories of them.

When Professional Help is Needed

It’s essential to acknowledge that sometimes, grief can become overwhelming or extend for a prolonged period, making daily functioning difficult. It may be useful to seek expert assistance in such circumstances. Therapists and counselors specializing in grief management can provide invaluable tools and insights for navigating this challenging journey.

Finding Solace in Support Groups

Support groups can provide a much-needed sense of community and understanding. Engaging with individuals who are experiencing similar emotions and situations can offer comfort, and sharing coping strategies and stories can be therapeutic.

Conclusion

Navigating the turbulent sea of grief following the cremation of a loved one
can often feel overwhelming and unending. However, acknowledging and understanding your grief, employing effective coping mechanisms, and reaching out for help can significantly ease your journey towards healing and acceptance.

As a reliable and compassionate provider of Rochester, NY cremation services
, we at Rochester Cremation take pride in offering not just professional services but also emotional support, guidance, and resources to help you through this profound period of transition. Please bear in mind that grieving is a deeply personal process, and seeking assistance is not only acceptable but also a constructive step towards healing. Rest assured, you are never alone in this journey.

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is a harrowing and often bewildering experience. It shatters routines and thrusts survivors into a profound journey through grief—a process that is as individual as it is universal. In these moments, seeking guidance and understanding from experienced professionals can be a beacon of support. And in the realm of last farewells, this is where Rochester, NY funeral homes
play a vital role in the healing process.

At the heart of this solemn affair, there is a provider that stands out for its compassionate and dignified approach to service: Rochester Cremation. Founded with a vision to simplify an often-complex process, this establishment has been solely dedicated to cremation services since 2013, thus embracing innovation within a traditional industry.

Understanding the Grieving Process

Grief is not a linear journey but rather an ebb and flow of emotions that can vary greatly from one person to another. It’s a deeply personal response to loss that encompasses a range of feelings from deep sadness to anger, and it can disrupt your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. These reactions are natural, and it’s crucial to allow ourselves space and time to experience them.

Embracing Emotions with Compassion

During your bereavement, it’s important to understand that there’s no right or wrong way to grieve. Everyone copes differently, and that’s okay. Providing continual support, we stand by the idea that expressing emotions is a vital part of the healing journey. Crying, sharing memories, and even moments of laughter can all be therapeutic.

Seeking Support Systems

Reaching out for support can ease the burden of grief. Whether it’s friends, family, a support group, or professional counselors, sharing your loss can provide comfort and pave the way towards healing.

Creating Lasting Memories

A crucial part of the grieving journey
is celebrating the life of the deceased. Holding a remembrance that truly reflects the individual can provide solace and a space for shared grieving. Personalization, be it through music, readings, or a showcase of their hobbies, contributes to honoring their uniqueness, and it is something we at Rochester Cremation deeply understand and facilitate.

Memorialization in the Age of Innovation

As communities evolve, so do the practices of honoring those we’ve lost. Innovation within the industry has led to more personalized services, reflecting the individuality of each life. The availability of digital memorial services
, for instance, allows for a broader community to come together in remembrance.

Building a Legacy of Care

The role of a funeral home extends beyond the immediate days following a loss. It is also about building a legacy of care and compassion. Community engagement, ongoing support, and a genuine sensitivity toward the needs of the bereaved families form the cornerstone of our business. Guiding families through the confusion, assisting in crafting meaningful farewells, and offering a warm, supportive environment are integral to the ethos of Rochester Cremation.

Conclusion

Coping with the sudden loss of a loved one is never easy; however, it’s a path that doesn’t have to be walked alone. Remember that each step taken towards healing, no matter how small, is a step forward. If you’re in search of professional, compassionate assistance with funeral arrangements, consider reaching out to Rochester Cremation. By your side, we offer not only our expertise but also our unwavering support, as we continue our mission to help families navigate their darkest times with care.

As you move forward in your journey of grief, know that your experiences are valid, and help is always available. For those who look towards the haven of understanding and empathy, remember that it is within reach. We invite you to connect with us
and allow our Rochester, NY funeral homes to be part of your healing process.

When considering end-of-life arrangements, many families look for options that are both respectful and convenient. One service that has gained popularity over the years is comprehensive cremation services. In this blog post, we will discuss the various benefits of opting for Greece, NY cremation services
, focusing on how it can offer a dignified yet flexible alternative to traditional burial methods.

Emotional and Psychological Benefits

Cremation offers several emotional and psychological benefits for grieving families. It can provide more time and flexibility to plan a memorial service
that truly honors the deceased. This can be a significant relief for families who might be overwhelmed by the immediacy and financial burden often associated with traditional funerals. By choosing cremation, families can take the necessary time to gather loved ones, which can be a crucial aspect of the healing process.

Financial Advantages

One of the most acknowledged benefits of cremation services is the cost-effectiveness. Traditional burial services often involve numerous expenses, including the casket, plot, headstone, and ongoing maintenance fees for the gravesite. Comprehensive cremation services, like those offered by specialized providers, often include various packages that are more affordable while still maintaining dignity and honor for the deceased. Choosing cremation allows families to allocate resources in ways that can benefit them more, such as investing in a memorable celebration of life rather than on the mechanical aspects of a burial.

Environmental Considerations

As awareness about environmental sustainability grows, many people are looking for greener alternatives for their final farewell. Traditional burials often involve embalming chemicals and the use of materials like metal and hardwoods, which can have long-term impacts on the environment. Cremation services, especially those aligned with modern eco-friendly practices, provide a much smaller carbon footprint.

Flexibility in Memorialization

Comprehensive cremation services
offer a plethora of options for memorialization that can be tailored to suit the specific wishes of the deceased and their families. Whether it’s creating a keepsake urn, incorporating remains into jewelry, or opting for a memorial tree planting, these choices provide a deeply personal and lasting way to remember a loved one. The flexibility in memorialization allows families to choose how they want to honor the departed, in a manner that is meaningful to them.

Simplicity and Convenience

Opting for comprehensive cremation services simplifies the end-of-life process, removing many of the logistical challenges associated with traditional burial. Providers often handle all the details, from paperwork to the actual cremation process, allowing families to focus on their emotional well-being. Such services ensure that all legal and procedural aspects are managed professionally, thereby offering peace of mind during a difficult time.

Call to Action

Ultimately, choosing Greece, NY cremation services can provide a dignified, flexible, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional burial methods. For those looking for comprehensive cremation services, Rochester Cremation stands out as a trusted provider dedicated to helping families navigate this sensitive time with compassion and professionalism. Contact us today
to learn how we can assist you in making a choice that honors your loved one.

This Seriously Might Be *THE* Most Comprehensive End-of-Life Resource Ever

We all know that planning for the end of life is important. That’s exactly what you advise the families you serve, especially when they’re making arrangements for someone who had not thought ahead. And while arranging and prepaying for funeral services and disposition is a huge step toward that goal, you know there’s much, much more to plan. And helping your families find the appropriate provider for each service can be like sending them off on a scavenger hunt.

That’s where Buried In Work can save the day … in the most concise, comprehensive, and organized way.

From DIY to concierge

Buried In Work is an all-in-one solution for all things end-of-life. From “wow-they’ve-thought-of-everything” kits to a website filled with free, uber-organized links, checklists, and detailed information, Buried In Work truly can be your best partner for preplanning.

“Effectively, what we’re building is the equivalent of the wedding industry’s ‘The Knot’ for estate planning, organization, and end-of-life tasks all the way through estate transition and probate,” explains Adam Zuckerman, CEO and Founder of Buried In Work. “Our goal is to give people free resources for the do-it-yourselfers, and for those who want a little extra help, we have some products available for purchase.”

Like most successful startups, Buried In Work came about because a real solution to a true need just didn’t exist. In this case, Zuckerman’s experience as his father’s executor provided the inspiration. An attorney with an MBA who has worked in finance, media and tech, Zuckerman executed what his mother’s financial planner called “the most comprehensive estate transition” she had ever seen. Consequently, Zuckerman made notes that detailed his simplified, yet thorough, process to help others. Those notes became a website that garnered more than 10,000 visits in under a week, and Buried In Work was born.

Working with Buried In Work

Zuckerman is eager to share the Buried In Work resources with deathcare professionals — not just because of the generous revenue-sharing and co-branding opportunities that are available for partners, but because these products and information will actually facilitate valuable connection with the families you serve and create better experiences all around. 

“We want to collaborate with end-of-life service providers to develop and provide the essential resources and tools their families need, so they can concentrate on their core expertise,” he says.

The tools Zuckerman has created can help you to address nearly any potential non-deathcare question you might field from a family, like, “Who should I call to arrange an estate sale?” or “Can I access Mom’s safe deposit box if I can’t find the key?” or “When I close Dad’s credit cards will Mom’s credit score go down since she’s secondary on those accounts?” (Zuckerman can tell you that the answer to this is “Yes, probably,” as that’s exactly what happened to his own mother … and it took him and his siblings weeks to remedy the situation.) 

Your partnership with Buried In Work can be anonymous and free by simply accessing the website for information, or you can work with Zuckerman and his team to offer “Powered By Buried in Work” products and services to your families. There are even opportunities to share your own thoughts and expertise as a guest on the recently launched Buried In Work podcast!

Mind-boggling amounts of information … for free

Zuckerman tasked his team with gathering details on virtually every aspect of end-of-life planning and finding answers to pretty much any question a planner, family member, or provider might ask. And the site is constantly updated and expanded as new information becomes available. Most importantly, the companies and organizations (including funeral homes, attorneys, cemeteries, hospice care, death doulas, etc.) that are included in the 20 Directories  aren’t limited by a conglomerate parent company, professional affiliations, or anyone’s personal preferences. If there’s a provider out there who is a solid option for products or services, they will be included on this site so everyone has access to all options that are available to them. (They even have a page on How to Plan & Prepay For Your Funeral With Preneed Insurance.)

To provide a bit of context where they get ideas for the website’s content, when someone reached out asking for help on how to close an account with Amazon after a relative died, instead of simply finding an answer, the Buried in Work team took the time to contact nearly 100 of the largest companies in the US to create a database of company-specific account closure instructions.

BuriedinWork.com resources include:

• 20 searchable service provider directories (Tip: By claiming a directory listing, you can connect with potential customers and also improve your website’s search engine ranking results.)
• 30+ checklists covering “What to Do When Someone Dies”, property disposition, guardianships, etc.
• 1,800+ articles on everything from A-B trusts to Zakat
• 30+ document and outreach templates
• 15 educational guides on topics like wills, trusts, and estate taxes
• State-specific resources
• Glossary defining 100+ estate planning and end-of-life terms

…and so much more. This colossal collection of data seems to be all-encompassing, but Zuckerman still encourages feedback and suggestions on content that can be added to the catalog.

Additional options

Although this plethora of information is extremely helpful, perhaps it’s most beneficial when organized into a physical or virtual collection that can be easily accessed and followed by individuals, their loved ones, and executors. Enter Buried In Work’s signature product line, the Comprehensive Legacy & Estate Administration Repository (CLEAR) Kit.

Available in print or digital editions, each CLEAR Kit includes three separate binders for recording 1) personal information, heritage, and pet profiles; 2) technology, assets, liabilities, and tax details; and 3) final affairs, medical, and legal. The physical version is beautifully presented in premium faux-leather zipper binders that were custom manufactured for Buried in Work, includes a water- and fire-resistant material document organizer, and can be embossed with your funeral home’s branding. The contents of each CLEAR Kit is customized for the recipient(s) based on a short survey they submit at the time of purchase.

Buried In Work also offers two thought-provoking card games that are designed to open up discussions and gather crucial information about a person’s memories, end-of-life wishes, or estate. They quickly sold out at Sibley Memorial Hospital’s gift shop (which is part of Johns Hopkins Medicine) Other items available for purchase include a host’s guide to a “Death During Dinner” event, accessories to enhance the CLEAR Kits, comprehensive forms and templates (including an end-of-life planning worksheet), and even professional services like on-site workshops or facilitated Zoom discussions.

Learn more

Check out all that Buried In Work has to offer on the website, BuriedInWork.com. If you’d like to learn more about partnering with Buried In Work, reach out to Adam Zuckerman at adam@buriedinwork.com. You can also catch up with him at the NFDA conference in New Orleans this week!