Scattering Ashes Together: How Couples Can Create a Shared Memorial for Eternity
The Future of Couples’ Ash Scattering Comes with a View
Cemeteries are not the ending every love story deserves.
Today, more couples are choosing to be scattered together so their final resting place reflects their story — not just a headstone. Mountains instead of marble. Water instead of walls. A destination that feels like them.
Inside this guide, you’ll find practical, compassionate guidance on combining ashes, planning a joint ceremony, and selecting the most beautiful locations for couples who want their love story to end exactly as it was lived: intentionally.
Couples choose joint ash scattering to symbolize enduring devotion, lifelong partnership, and the belief that connection does not end with death. Whether shaped by decades of marriage, shared adventures, or quiet everyday moments, this final gesture becomes a beautiful continuation of the bond you built together.
Inside, you’ll find:
clear guidance on how to combine ashes respectfully and legally
an overview of laws and permits for scattering ashes together
and a curated collection of the best ash scattering locations for couples, selected for their beauty, symbolism, and peaceful setting
If you are considering scattering ashes together, this guide is designed to be everything you need to know — from the practical steps of combining cremated remains, to the legal considerations, ceremony planning, and the most meaningful locations to honor your love story.
Let the Ending Be Beautiful
With 80 years of combined experience guiding and serving families, we believe endings deserve to be worthy of the life that came before. That nature is a sacred resting place. And that scattering ashes is not the end of the story—but a chapter written in wind and water, in silence and sunlight.
If you’re ready to begin, or simply need space to reflect, we’re here to walk with you.
📞 Talk to a Memorial Specialist Now: (515) 206-4845
Why Choose Joint Ash Scattering?
Cremation has become a preferred choice for many couples, with over 60% of Americans choosing cremation over traditional burial, according to the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). One of the reasons for this shift is the increasing desire for more personalized memorial services, with many people opting for cremation as a way to honor their loved ones in unique, meaningful ways.
Joint ash scattering is an extension of this trend, offering couples a chance to symbolically remain together, even in death. It offers several key benefits:
Symbolism of Eternal Unity: Scattering ashes together is a poignant way for couples to express the desire to be united forever, continuing their bond even beyond the grave. This symbolizes not just the love they shared in life but their shared journey into eternity.
Shared Memorial: Couples often seek a shared final resting place that reflects their life together, creating a memorial that represents their story and their unique relationship. Joint ash scattering allows both individuals to be remembered in the same way, at the same place, side by side.
Personalized Tribute: Instead of opting for a conventional burial, couples can choose to be scattered in locations that held personal meaning throughout their lives. From the beaches where they vacationed to the hiking trails where they found peace, the choices are endless.
Joint Ash Scattering at a Glance: What Couples Should Know
Joint ash scattering is a meaningful and increasingly common choice for couples who wish to remain together after life. While deeply personal, it is also practical and legally straightforward when planned correctly.
Here is a clear overview of what couples can expect.
Legal in Most States
Joint ash scattering is legal throughout most of the United States. There are no laws that prohibit scattering two sets of ashes together, as long as local land and environmental regulations are followed.
Permits Required in National Parks
All U.S. national parks require a Special Use Permit before ashes can be scattered — whether for one person or a couple. Many state parks and protected lands also require written approval.
Planning ahead is essential, as permits often take several weeks to process.
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Can Be Attended or Unattended
Couples may choose:
a private family ceremony
a small attended gathering
or an unattended professional scattering
Many families opt for unattended ceremonies when distance, health, or timing makes travel difficult.
Ashes Can Be Combined or Kept Separate
Couples may:
combine ashes into one vessel before scattering
scatter simultaneously from separate containers
or combine ashes at the ceremony itself
All options are legally acceptable. The choice is entirely personal.
Can Occur on Land or Water
Joint ash scattering ceremonies may take place:
in national or state parks
on private property
at beaches or coastal locations
at sea (following EPA guidelines)
near lakes or rivers (with local approval)
Location type determines legal requirements, not the number of individuals being scattered.
Planning Notes
While joint ash scattering is simple in principle, location rules and permits can feel complex during grief. Many couples and families choose professional guidance to ensure everything is handled respectfully, legally, and without unnecessary stress.
Partners Tribute Package
Combining ashes is a quiet act of devotion—one final joining of hands between two souls who walked life side by side. Whether scattered together on a mountaintop or gently blended into one vessel, the symbolism is profound.
It’s a love story written in the elements.
In the Partners Tribute Package, ashes are scattered together at a custom location that reflects their love story.
Whether honoring decades of marriage or a lifetime of deep companionship, this gesture of unity can be a balm for grief and a lasting expression of eternal love.
Thinking about scattering ashes together? Consider our professional ash scattering service
The Benefits of Scattering Ashes Together
For couples who have spent a lifetime creating shared memories, the idea of a shared memorial feels like a natural extension of that love. Here are some reasons why joint ash scattering has become so popular:
A Celebration of the Life You Lived Together: Ash scattering allows couples to be memorialized in a setting that reflects their personality, their travels, and their shared dreams. Whether it’s at the top of a mountain they climbed together, by the ocean they loved, or in a forest they both cherished, joint scattering honors the life and love they created together.
A Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Option: The environmental benefits of cremation, as well as the ecological impact of scattering ashes, are often more attractive to couples who wish to leave a minimal environmental footprint. According to a 2024 report from the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), nearly 68% of individualsare interested in eco-friendly funeral options, and cremation is often seen as an environmentally responsible choice.
A Final Journey for Adventurers: Many couples who are avid travelers or adventure enthusiasts choose to scatter their ashes in beautiful, remote locations where they’ve made lasting memories. National parks, mountain ranges, and coastlines all offer stunning backdrops for these final ceremonies.
A Cost-Effective Option: Spreading ashes together combines expenses— BONAVENTURE offers a couples package at a discounted rate to support the growing demand for an option that celebrates love and pays a unique tribute to their bond.
Let the Ending Be Beautiful
With 80 years of combined experience guiding and serving families, we believe endings deserve to be worthy of the life that came before. That nature is a sacred resting place. And that scattering ashes is not the end of the story—but a chapter written in wind and water, in silence and sunlight.
If you’re ready to begin, or simply need space to reflect, we’re here to walk with you.
Planning a Shared Ash Scattering Ceremony
How to Create a Meaningful, Peaceful Tribute Together
More couples today are choosing joint ash scattering because it offers something traditional burials cannot: freedom. Freedom to rest in a place that reflects who they were. Freedom to choose beauty over boundaries. Freedom to let their final chapter be written in mountains, oceans, forests, or skies — not rows and stone.
Whether you’re honoring one person or planning to combine ashes for multiple family members, this guide will walk you through how to plan a shared ceremony that feels effortless, reverent, and personal.
1. Choosing the Location
Selecting a meaningful location sets the tone for the entire ceremony. Consider a place that resonates with the loved one’s spirit — somewhere that captures who they were and what they loved.
Tips for choosing the right setting:
Pick a landscape everyone can connect with — coast, forest, mountains, or prairie.
Consider accessibility and seasonal weather.
Think about whether family might want to return for reflection in the future.
Examples of BONAVENTURE scattering destinations:
Yellowstone National Park: sweeping vistas and timeless wilderness.
Olympic National Park: mossy rainforests and coastal serenity.
Hawaii: tropical waters and sacred valleys for a spiritual farewell.
Mount Rainier: wildflower meadows and mountain air.
Professional Ash Scattering Service
We understand that these wishes come from a sacred place. That’s why we’ve created a process that is simple, secure, and thoughtful from beginning to end.
1. Choose a Scattering Location
Select from over 18 stunning natural destinations — including national parks, quiet coastlines, mountain ridges, or desert skies.
2. Request Your Free USPS Cremains Kit
Order a USPS-compliant kit (for each individual). Each includes complete instructions and all required packaging — no guesswork.
3. Coordinate a Joint Scattering
Let us know you’d like ashes to be scattered together — whether they arrive at the same time, or separately over time. We keep detailed records and honor all shared memorial requests.
Need help planning a joint ash scattering ceremony?
Our team handles permits, location coordination, and ceremony logistics for couples across the U.S. — so you can focus on remembrance, not regulations.
📞 Talk to a Memorial Specialist Now: (515) 206-4845
4. Preparing the Ashes
Before traveling or mailing cremated remains, make sure they’re safely contained and legally shipped.
Shipping ashes: The USPS Cremated Remains Kit includes everything needed for safe, compliant mailing.
Combining ashes: If you’re merging ashes of two or more loved ones, read BONAVENTURE’s Guide to Combining & Scattering Ashes for step-by-step advice.
Eco-conscious scattering: Learn how to use biodegradable urns and return ashes gently to nature with our Eco-Conscious Ash Scattering Guide.
More Information: Full Guide to Shipping Cremated Ashes
5. Personalizing the Ceremony
A shared scattering ceremony is as much about connection as remembrance. Personal touches transform it from an act of release into a moment of beauty.
Ideas to personalize your ceremony:
From favorite wine to favorite trails, a custom scattering location should reflect your love story
Shared Rituals: Let each participant release a portion of the ashes or say a few words
Symbolic Additions: Include flowers or biodegradable petals.
Words of Remembrance: Read from The Only Guide You Need: What to Say for a Celebration of Life for meaningful readings or quotes.
Music: Choose a favorite song or melody to accompany the scattering.
For those drawn to sweeping wilderness and unforgettable horizons, couples often explore options like our Yellowstone ash scattering experience, where nature’s grandeur mirrors a life lived side by side. For ocean lovers, our Hawaii shared memorial package provides serene coastal beauty and gentle rhythms that reflect deep connection.
Choosing the Right Location for Joint Ash Scattering
The Most Meaningful Ash Scattering Locations for Couples (With Symbolism & Seasonal Insight)
We’ve curated a list of the very best spots for a joint ash scattering: We’ve guided and served thousands of families in the National Parks, and we are passionate about helping couples find a location that reflects their story.
For couples who choose to be scattered together, the location becomes part of their love story. It reflects not only where they rest, but how they lived — the journeys they shared, the challenges they overcame, and the quiet moments that defined their bond.
Many families search for “best places for couples to scatter ashes together”, “joint ash scattering ceremony locations,” or “meaningful shared memorial locations for partners.” The destinations below are among the most meaningful choices couples make, each carrying its own symbolism and emotional resonance.
More information: See Our Full Guide for Planning a Shared Ash Scattering Ceremony
Practical Location Selection Tips for Couples Planning a Joint Ash Scattering Ceremony
Choosing where to scatter ashes together is one of the most personal decisions couples make when planning a shared memorial. The right location should honor not only how each partner lived, but how they lived together.
Families often search for “how to choose a location for joint ash scattering,” “best places to scatter ashes for couples,” or “planning a shared memorial ceremony.” The guidance below reflects what couples most often consider when selecting a meaningful and peaceful final resting place.
1. Choose a Place With Personal Meaning
For many couples, the most meaningful locations are tied to shared experiences:
Where you first traveled together
A favorite vacation destination
A place where you raised children
A quiet trail you walked for years
A coastline where you watched sunsets side by side
These places carry emotional weight that no scenic view alone can replace. When ashes are scattered in a location rich with shared memories, families often describe the ceremony as feeling “complete” — not simply symbolic, but deeply true to the couple’s story.
2. Consider Accessibility for Loved Ones
If family or close friends will attend the ceremony, accessibility matters more than many couples initially realize.
Ask:
Can elderly family members reach the location safely?
Are there steep trails or long hikes involved?
Is parking nearby?
Are restrooms available?
Is altitude a concern?
Some couples choose remote or rugged locations for privacy, while others select easily accessible sites so loved ones can participate without physical strain. Both choices are valid — the key is being intentional.
3. Plan Around Seasonal Weather Conditions
Weather plays a significant role in outdoor ash scattering ceremonies.
Depending on the location:
Wind can affect the direction and dignity of the scattering
Snow can close mountain roads
Summer heat can limit attendance
Rain can affect safety and comfort
Many couples prefer:
Spring – renewal and gentler temperatures
Early fall – calm air, fewer crowds, symbolic of a life well lived
Checking historical weather patterns for your chosen destination can prevent last-minute stress and help ensure the ceremony feels peaceful rather than rushed or uncomfortable.
4. Think About Privacy and Crowds
A quiet setting allows families to grieve, reflect, and honor their loved ones without feeling observed or interrupted.
Ways couples protect privacy:
Choosing sunrise or early morning ceremonies
Selecting weekdays instead of weekends
Planning during off-season months
Using professional services to access secluded approved locations
Many families find that solitude helps transform the ceremony from an event into a sacred moment.
5. Understand Legal Requirements in Advance
This step is often overlooked, yet it is one of the most important.
Different locations follow different rules:
National parks require permits
State parks often require written authorization
Private property requires owner permission
Oceans and coastal waters follow EPA guidelines
Lakes and rivers may have local restrictions
Failing to follow location-specific regulations can lead to denied access, fines, or the need to reschedule — adding unnecessary emotional strain.
Because of this, many couples choose professional ash scattering services to quietly handle:
Permits
Park coordination
Environmental compliance
Documentation
This allows families to focus on remembrance rather than regulations.
Let the Ending Be Beautiful
With 80 years of combined experience guiding and serving families, we believe endings deserve to be worthy of the life that came before. That nature is a sacred resting place. And that scattering ashes is not the end of the story—but a chapter written in wind and water, in silence and sunlight.
If you’re ready to begin, or simply need space to reflect, we’re here to walk with you.
Choosing the Right Season for Ash Scattering
Spring Scattering Tips
Ideal for symbolism of renewal
Mild temperatures
Fewer crowds in many parks
Watch for lingering mountain snow
Summer Scattering Tips
Best access to national parks
Longer daylight for ceremonies
Plan early mornings to avoid crowds
Heat and wind should be considered
Fall Scattering Tips
Calm winds in many regions
Beautiful foliage in parks
Quieter travel season
Symbolizes completion and gratitude
Winter Scattering Tips
Very private and peaceful
Limited access in mountain regions
Coastal and southern locations work best
Requires careful logistical planning
Popular Locations for Joint Ash Scattering Ceremonies
National Parks (Nature-Loving Couples)
National parks such as Yellowstone, Zion, Glacier, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon are among the most meaningful choices for couples who felt deeply connected to nature.
These protected landscapes offer:
Vast open spaces
Enduring beauty
A sense of timelessness
Quiet dignity for remembrance
Many couples choose national parks as their final resting place to symbolically remain part of the natural world they cherished together.
Note: National parks require special permits and location approval. Many families choose professional assistance to handle these steps.
Partners Package – Created Specifically for Couples
👉 See our Partners ash scattering package for couples
Designed for partners who planned everything side-by-side, this package includes coordinated logistics, legal compliance, documentation, and personalized ceremony support.
Couples Ash Scattering: Beaches and Oceans (For Couples Drawn to Water)
For couples who found peace near the sea, coastal ash scattering ceremonies are among the most requested options.
The ocean represents:
Continuity
Freedom
Renewal
An enduring bond beyond time
With gentle waves and open horizons, beach and ocean ceremonies offer a serene and symbolic setting for a shared farewell.
Hawaii – Eternal Love, Peace, and Spiritual Continuity
Ash Scattering in Hawaii is chosen by couples who viewed love as something timeless and sacred.
The islands represent harmony between earth and ocean, rest after long journeys, and a peaceful return to nature.
Couples often choose this destination to symbolize:
Love that continues beyond life
Unity with the natural world
Spiritual calm and wholeness
👉 Explore our Hawaii ash scattering service for couples
Best season: Year-round (spring and fall are especially calm).
Yellowstone National Park – A Love That Endures Every Season
Ash scattering in Yellowstone reflects relationships shaped by time, resilience, and shared growth.
Its changing seasons mirror the chapters of a long marriage — from vibrant beginnings to quiet reflection.
Chosen by couples who value:
Strength through adversity
Lifelong partnership
A deep connection to nature
👉 See our Yellowstone ash scattering option for couples
Best season: Late spring through early fall.
Mountain Peaks (For Adventurous Spirits)
Mountaintop locations are ideal for couples who loved hiking, travel, or expansive views.
Mountain ash scattering ceremonies symbolize:
Shared journeys
Life’s highest moments
Strength through adversity
Rising together in spirit
These locations are powerful, quiet, and deeply reflective.
Grand Teton National Park – Standing Side by Side Forever
Ash scattering in the Tetons rise together, dramatic and inseparable — are a powerful image of equality and shared strength.
Couples choose this destination to represent:
Partnership without hierarchy
Loyalty and mutual respect
Lives lived shoulder-to-shoulder
👉 View our Grand Teton ash scattering package for couples
Best season: Summer and early fall.
Glacier National Park – Quiet Devotion and Sacred Stillness
Ash Scattering in Glacier is often chosen by couples who lived gently, loved deeply, and valued peace over attention.
Its pristine lakes and remote valleys create space for reflection and reverence.
Symbolizes:
Love without noise
Privacy and devotion
A life centered on depth, not display
👉 Get professional ash scattering at Glacier National Park
Best season: Summer.
Mount Rainier – Love Through Every Season of Life
Mount Rainier changes dramatically throughout the year, making it especially meaningful for couples who shared decades together.
It represents:
Endurance
Renewal
The rhythm of time
A relationship that weathered every season
👉 Learn about our Mount Rainier ash scattering service for couples
Best season: July–September.
Zion National Park – Strength, Patience, and Unbreakable Bonds
Ash scattering among Zion’s towering red cliffs were shaped slowly, just as deep relationships are built over years.
Chosen by couples who value:
Perseverance
Quiet loyalty
Love that matured through hardship
👉 Explore our Zion National Park ash scattering package
Best season: Spring and fall.
Olympic National Park – For Love that Endures
Blending misty forests and rugged coastline, Olympic is ideal for couples who cherished solitude, reflection, and private joy.
With trees that grow into eternity, this is a spectacular place for a love that goes on.
Symbolizes:
Lasting companionship
Hidden beauty
Lives lived thoughtfully
👉 View our Olympic Peninsula ash scattering option for couples
Best season: Late spring through early fall.
Monarch Butterfly Migration – Love That Continues Its Journey
Monarchs symbolize transformation and continuity — the idea that love changes form but never disappears.
Chosen by couples who believed in:
Spiritual connection
Reunion beyond death
Love that moves forward together
👉 See our Monarch migration ash scattering ceremony
Best season: Fall.
Bioluminescence in Puget Sound – A Love That Still Glows
When the water lights up at night, couples are remembered in quiet brilliance — a powerful symbol that love remains present even in darkness.
👉 Learn about our bioluminescent ash scattering experience in Puget Sound
Best season: Late summer.
Let the Ending Be Beautiful
With 80 years of combined experience guiding and serving families, we believe endings deserve to be worthy of the life that came before. That nature is a sacred resting place. And that scattering ashes is not the end of the story—but a chapter written in wind and water, in silence and sunlight.
If you’re ready to begin, or simply need space to reflect, we’re here to walk with you.
Curated Packages Designed for Couples
America the Beautiful – Three National Parks, One Love Story
👉 View the America the Beautiful ash scattering package for couples
Perfect for couples who loved traveling and collecting memories across the country.
Return to Nature – Whispers of the Wild
👉 Explore the Return to Nature couples memorial package
Ideal for partners who preferred quiet forests, rivers, and peaceful solitude.
Heartland Journey – Monarch & Crane Migration
👉 Learn about the Heartland Journey couples ash scattering package
Symbolizing lifelong loyalty and returning home together.
Partners Package – Created Specifically for Couples
👉 See our Partners ash scattering package for couples
Designed for partners who planned everything side-by-side, this package includes coordinated logistics, legal compliance, documentation, and personalized ceremony support.
Legal Considerations for Joint Ash Scattering (What Couples Need to Know)
Scattering ashes together is legal in most parts of the United States, but where and how it is done matters. Laws vary by location type — not by whether one person or two are being scattered — which means couples must follow the same regulations as any individual ash scattering ceremony.
When couples plan a joint ash scattering they often ask:
Is it legal to scatter ashes together?
Joint ash scattering laws by state
Do couples need permits to scatter ashes?
Where can we scatter ashes legally?
This guide explains the practical legal rules couples should understand before planning a joint ash scattering ceremony.
Is Joint Ash Scattering Legal?
Yes. Joint ash scattering is legal in most U.S. states as long as the ceremony follows local land and environmental regulations.
There are no laws that prohibit combining or scattering two sets of cremated remains together. The legal requirements depend entirely on:
the location
land ownership
environmental protections
and federal or state jurisdiction
Getting It Right: Legal and Park Guidelines
Scattering in nature requires simple, respectful planning.
National Parks: Always apply for a Special Use Permit from the National Park Service before your visit.
EPA Requirements: For ocean or lake scatterings, ensure compliance with the EPA Marine Burial at Sea Guidelines and submit a Notice of Scattering within 30 days.
Safety: If hiking or reaching remote sites, review the NPS 10 Essentials for Safe Travel.
More information: 2026 Guide to Scattering Ashes in National Parks
Our team manages all necessary permits and logistics when you book through our Destination Ash Scattering Services — ensuring everything is both legal and deeply respectful.
Where Permits Are Commonly Required
National Parks (Federal Land)
All U.S. national parks require a Special Use Permit before ashes can be scattered — whether for one person or a couple.
Permits typically require:
advance application (often 2–6 weeks)
exact location approval
discreet ceremonies
no permanent markers
biodegradable materials only
This applies to locations such as Yellowstone, Glacier, Zion, Rocky Mountain, Mount Rainier, and Grand Teton.
State Parks & Wildlife Areas
Many state parks also require written permission or permits. Requirements vary by state and park authority.
Some allow scattering with simple notification, while others require formal approval.
For More information read our: 2026 State-by-State Legal Guide for Scattering Ashes (All 50 States)
Let the Ending Be Beautiful
With 80 years of combined experience guiding and serving families, we believe endings deserve to be worthy of the life that came before. That nature is a sacred resting place. And that scattering ashes is not the end of the story—but a chapter written in wind and water, in silence and sunlight.
If you’re ready to begin, or simply need space to reflect, we’re here to walk with you.
Oceans, Beaches, Lakes & Rivers
Water scatterings are regulated differently:
Ocean scatterings fall under EPA Burial at Sea guidelines
must occur at least 3 nautical miles from shore
biodegradable containers only
formal notification to the EPA within 30 days
Lakes and rivers may be governed by:
state environmental agencies
local municipalities
water management districts
Private Property
Scattering ashes on private land is legal with the landowner’s permission.
Written permission is strongly recommended for:
family land
shared ownership property
rented land
farms or estates
Does Combining Ashes Change the Legal Process?
No. Combining ashes does not change permit requirements or legal obligations.
Authorities evaluate:
the location
environmental impact
public safety
land management policies
—not the number of individuals being scattered.
What Happens If Ashes Are Scattered Without Permission?
Consequences can include:
fines
denial of future permits
removal of memorial items
forced relocation of the ceremony
emotional distress for families
Most violations happen unintentionally due to misunderstanding location-specific rules.
Why Many Couples Use Professional Services for Legal Compliance
Coordinating permits across federal, state, and local agencies can be overwhelming — especially during grief.
Professional ash scattering services help couples:
identify legal locations
obtain permits
coordinate with park authorities
comply with EPA regulations
manage documentation
avoid delays or violations
For couples planning destination ceremonies or multi-location scatterings, professional coordination often prevents costly and emotional complications.
Practical Legal Checklist for Couples
Before choosing a location, confirm:
✓ Who owns the land
✓ Whether a permit is required
✓ How far in advance to apply
✓ Environmental restrictions
✓ Container requirements
✓ Reporting obligations (for water scatterings)
✓ Seasonal access rules
If any of these are unclear, professional guidance can simplify the process.
A Reassuring Note for Families
Most couples worry they will make a mistake.
In reality, joint ash scattering is legally straightforward when properly planned. With accurate information — or professional support — families can move forward confidently, knowing their ceremony is both meaningful and compliant.
How Bonaventure Can Help You Honor Your Love
At Bonaventure, we specialize in unaccompanied ash scattering services, offering couples a seamless, respectful, and professional way to have their ashes scattered in breathtaking, meaningful locations across the United States. We understand the desire for a personalized, unforgettable tribute, and our team is here to help you every step of the way—from selecting the perfect location to ensuring that every detail is handled with care and precision.
With our certified park ranger consultants and expert team of professionals, we handle all the logistics, paperwork, and permits necessary to ensure a smooth and respectful ceremony. We also offer personalized commemorative plaques as part of our service, allowing families and loved ones to keep a small, meaningful part of their loved ones’ ashes as a lasting memorial.
Creating a Beautiful Memorial for Eternity
Choosing to be scattered together as a couple is a beautiful and meaningful decision. It’s an enduring tribute to the life you shared, the love you gave, and the memories you created together. Whether you choose to be scattered in a national park, along a beach, or in the mountains, the journey of being together forever is something to cherish.
If you’re considering a joint ash scattering for you and your partner, Bonaventure is here to help. Our team’s compassion, expertise, and dedication to your wishes ensure that your final tribute will be as meaningful and unique as your relationship.
Contact Bonaventure today to learn more about how we can help you create a shared memorial for eternity, and to begin planning a beautiful, lasting tribute to the life you lived and the love you shared.
Need help with scattering ashes together legally? Simplify the process with our Professional Ash Scattering Service
How to Combine Cremated Ashes at Home
A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin, take a moment.
This is an act of love, not a task. Light a candle. Play music if it helps. Allow yourself space to feel the weight—and beauty—of the moment.
What You’ll Need:
A clean, dry surface (a table covered with a clean towel or sheet works well)
Two (or more) urns, temporary containers, or ashes in sealed bags
A large, clean ceremonial container or mixing bowl (stainless steel or glass is ideal)
A funnel (optional, for returning ashes into a vessel)
Gloves and a face covering (optional, for comfort)
A soft brush or cloth for cleanup
A new, shared container or scattering urn if combining into one
Step by Step Instructions to Combine Ashes from Two People
Step 1: Prepare the Space
Choose a quiet, private space where you feel comfortable. Lay down a clean towel or soft cloth to catch any spills. Keep tissues nearby. You may want a loved one with you—or not. There is no wrong way.
Step 2: Gently Open Each Container
Cremated remains are typically delivered in a plastic bag inside an urn or box. Open each container slowly and respectfully. Take care to open only one bag at a time to prevent confusion.
If you are handling ashes of different people, pause and acknowledge each one by name. You might speak a few words aloud or silently, simply honoring the moment.
Step 3: Begin the Blending
Slowly pour a portion of the first set of ashes into your ceremonial container. Then, add a portion of the second. Alternate back and forth, like layering ingredients in a recipe, until both sets are fully blended.
Use gentle stirring motions—your hands, a clean wooden spoon, or simply tilting the bowl slowly from side to side. There's no need to mix aggressively. The act is symbolic as much as it is physical.
You might find that ashes differ slightly in color or texture. This is natural. The blending of these differences is part of the beauty.
Step 4: Transfer to the Final Vessel (Optional)
Once the ashes are blended, you may transfer them to:
A shared urn
A biodegradable scattering tube
A small portion reserved for keepsakes, like jewelry or BONAVENTURE’s memorial plaque
If needed, use a funnel to avoid spilling. Take your time. There is no rush.
Step 5: Clean Up with Intention
Use a soft brush or cloth to gently sweep any remaining ashes into the vessel. Some families choose to bury or scatter tiny remnants left behind in a flower bed, a forest, or the sea.
This moment can be as ceremonial as you wish—just as sacred as the scattering itself.
See Our Full Guide on Combining Ashes
Can You Combine Ashes from Two People?
Legal and Practical Tips
Yes, it is possible to combine ashes from two people, but there are some important factors to consider. Whether the ashes are those of a married couple who spent their lives together, best friends who were inseparable, or even parent and child, combining remains is a way for families to keep their loved ones together.
However, there are logistical, legal, and emotional considerations that should be addressed before proceeding.
Legal Considerations and Permissions
While the act of combining ashes is not illegal in itself, there are strict legal regulations in place to ensure that cremation remains are returned to the correct family and treated with the proper respect. These laws govern the handling, transportation, and disposal of cremated remains, and funeral homes and crematories are held accountable to these standards.
Special Permission Is Required: Crematoriums and funeral homes require special permission before combining ashes, especially if the remains were cremated at different locations. If both individuals were cremated at the same facility, combining their ashes may be simpler, but in other cases, special arrangements will need to be made.
Documenting the Cremation: Each cremation is documented, and every effort is made to ensure that the remains of the correct individual are returned to their family. This documentation is critical for the legal and moral integrity of the process. Special attention needs to be given to the fact that combining ashes may alter the identity of the remains, making it essential that families give clear instructions to the funeral home or crematory.
Cremation Chambers and Segregation of Ashes: During the cremation process, ashes are typically not "mixed" with those of other people. Crematories take great care to ensure that the remains of each individual are handled separately. Any intervention, such as combining ashes, is typically done only after the remains have been processed and returned to the family. Cremation identification procedures are followed to ensure each set of ashes is correctly attributed to the deceased.
Practical Aspects of Combining Ashes
When considering combining ashes, it’s important to think about the practical aspects and emotional implications of doing so. Many people find that they wish to honor their loved ones by keeping their ashes together in a shared resting place, while others may feel that dividing the ashes is a better option. Here’s what you need to know about the process:
Dividing Ashes: If you want to divide the ashes between different family members, it’s not necessary to fully combine the remains. Many families choose to divide ashes into smaller portions so that each family member can hold a portion of their loved one’s remains. This can be done in a symbolic and respectful way, using smaller urns or keepsake containers that reflect the individual's wishes.
Memorial Jewelry: Another way to divide ashes is through memorial jewelry, which allows families to carry a small portion of their loved one’s remains with them in the form of a pendant, ring, or bracelet. Memorial jewelry can be a deeply personal way to honor a lost loved one, and it can be passed down through generations.
Custom Urns and Keepsakes: For families who want to keep the remains of both individuals together, joint urnsare available. These are designed specifically to hold the remains of two people and often include options for personalization, such as engraved names, dates, or symbols that represent the individuals' lives.
See Our Full Guide to Scattering Ashes from Two People
Why do People Scatter or Combine Ashes?
One Story, One Resting Place: Combining Ashes as a Tribute to Love
Some lives are so intertwined, even their farewells belong to each other.
Combining ashes is a quiet act of devotion—one final joining of hands between two souls who walked life side by side. Whether scattered together on a mountaintop or gently blended into one vessel, the symbolism is profound:
Two partners resting where they once danced
A parent and child bound again in spirit
Siblings whose bond never broke, even in death
For families, this can feel less like loss, and more like completion.
Some lives are so intertwined, even their farewells belong to each other.
Combining ashes is a quiet act of devotion—one final joining of hands between two souls who walked life side by side. Whether scattered together on a mountaintop or gently blended into one vessel, the symbolism is profound.
It’s a love story written in the elements.
In the Partners Tribute Package, ashes are scattered together at a custom location that reflects their love story.
Whether honoring decades of marriage or a lifetime of deep companionship, this gesture of unity can be a balm for grief and a lasting expression of eternal love.
When One Place Isn’t Enough: Dividing Ashes with Grace
Sometimes a life is too vast for one goodbye.
Dividing ashes makes it possible to hold multiple memorials—one by the sea, one under tall trees, one with the rising of cranes in the sky.
Some families choose a combination package like the America the Beautiful tribute, which includes three major national parks.
Others scatter across migration paths, as in the Heartland Journey where monarch butterflies and sandhill cranes trace ancient skies.
This path offers freedom from conflict and allows every loved one to feel part of the story.
Visit Our Full Guide to Why People Scatter or Combine Ashes
Practical Tips for Planning a Meaningful Two-Person Scattering Ceremony
Do:
Get permission if scattering on private land or in a regulated area like a national park.
Use a scattering urn or container that allows for gentle release, especially in windy areas.
Be mindful of the wind direction to avoid blowback.
Say a few words or bring a token (such as flowers or a small biodegradable item) to mark the moment.
Document the location for personal records or future family members. BONAVENTURE provides exact GPS coordinates when you use our service.
Don’t:
Don’t scatter ashes in busy or high-traffic areas (like near trails, parks, or where people swim).
Don’t pour ashes directly into water without checking state and federal guidelines (the EPA requires notification within 30 days for ocean burials).
Don’t assume all natural areas allow scattering — always check local laws or consult a professional.
Guide: Helpful Tips on Scattering Together
What couples most often look for in a location
Personal significance
Natural beauty
Quiet and privacy
Legal accessibility
Ease of travel
Seasonal comfort
Symbolic meaning
Common mistakes couples avoid with proper planning
Choosing restricted locations
Missing permit deadlines
Scattering in windy conditions
Selecting inaccessible terrain for family
Underestimating travel logistics
Forgetting environmental rules
What professional services typically help with
Permit applications
Park or agency coordination
Location selection
Legal compliance
Travel logistics
Ceremony documentation
Discreet unattended ceremonies
What to Know About Joint Ash Scatterings
❓ Can ashes be scattered together even if they arrive separately?
Yes. We can coordinate timing to ensure they’re scattered together, or even reserve a location if one person’s ashes are already resting there.
❓ Is this legal and environmentally safe?
Absolutely. We follow all state, federal, and EPA regulations — and work with preservation experts to protect every site.
❓ Can other loved ones be added in the future?
Yes. We keep precise records and can arrange for additional ashes to be scattered at the same GPS location later on, as requested by the family.
Locked-in pricing, Make a plan in just minutes: Pre-planning an ash scattering gives you peace of mind and ensures your final wishes are respected, without the complications or high costs of traditional burial.