Frequently Asked Questions about Ash Scattering

What is unaccompanied ash scattering?
Unaccompanied ash scattering is a service where the ashes of a loved one are respectfully scattered by the BONAVENTURE team. Our team handles the entire process to honor the memory of your loved one.

Can I witness the scattering at a later date?
Unfortunately, our service is designed for unaccompanied scattering, meaning family members are not present during the actual event. However, we can provide you with a detailed report and photos after the scattering.

Why is timing important for the scattering ceremony?

Timing plays a crucial role in creating a meaningful experience. Our scatterings are carefully scheduled to maximize beauty, serenity, seasonality, and solemnity, ensuring that the moment is both respectful and memorable. From the fluctuating seasonality of the annual monarch migration to the awe-inspiring wildflower vistas of Mt. Rainier, rest assured our teams at the service of your loved one— ensuring their ceremony is both beautiful and reverent.

How do I choose a location for scattering?
We offer a variety of stunning locations across the country. You can browse our locations page, which provides descriptions and imagery of each site, helping you select the perfect place to honor your loved one.

What is the process for scattering ashes?
Once you select a location, our team will then handle the logistics, including transportation, compliance with local regulations, and the actual scattering of the ashes, ensuring a respectful and dignified farewell.

Are there any legal regulations regarding ash scattering?
Yes, regulations can vary by location. We ensure that all necessary permissions and guidelines are followed for each scattering site, allowing for a legal and respectful process.

Can I include any personal items or mementos with the ashes?
Regrettably, because all locations are pristine, our team works very hard to leave no trace behind. This ensures a respectful and discreet tribute to your loved one that doesn’t disrupt the beauty of their final resting place.

How are the ashes transported?
Your loved one’s ashes will be transported securely and respectfully by our trained staff. Once we receive the cremains, they never leave our possession. We use appropriate containers to ensure the ashes are protected during transport to the scattering location.

What should I do with the ashes if I decide to use your service?
You’ll need to either arrange with the funeral home or securely package the ashes in a free container courtesy of USPS. Simply utilize our prepaid shipping label and let us help simplify honoring your loved one.

Are there any costs associated with scattering in national parks or protected areas?
BONAVENTURE covers the costs of fees and associated costs for any locations that may require permits or fees— We handle all necessary arrangements and ensure compliance with regulations, so you can focus on honoring your loved one without added stress.

How do you ensure the ashes are handled with care?
We treat every part of the process with dignity, ensuring that your loved one's ashes are treated with respect and care— from our secure processes to the moment of scattering itself, we handle the responsibility of caring for your loved one’s cremains seriously.

Do you offer any additional services for memorialization?
We offer the option to receive a free memorial plaque, with the loved one’s name and the geographic location of the scattering. Our woodcraft artisans offer to customize the plaque further by permanently enclosing a small portion of ashes in the back of the plaque, at no extra charge.

How do you prepare for the scattering ceremony?
Our team conducts thorough preparations, including reviewing the location, ensuring compliance with regulations, strategizing over transport logistics, and planning the respectful release of ashes to create a dignified ceremony.