Complete Cremation & Memorial Services
Handle every end-of-life step in one place.
What is Better Place?
Better Place is the first complete online cremation and memorialization platform—seamlessly coordinating every detail of end-of-life arrangements with transparency, compassion, and no funeral home visit required.
- Flame cremation
- Aquamation
- Natural organic reduction
- Paperwork & permits
- Executor assistance
- Grief support
- Obituaries
- Memorial Trees
- Spreading Groves
- Nature Memorial Ceremonies
- Memorial Markers
- 9 Memorial Forests nationwide

Whenever you’re ready, we’re here
I need to arrange cremation and memorial services right away.
Someone I love is dying. I want to start planning cremation.
I need a Memorial Tree or Spreading Grove, and a ceremony.
I’m planning cremation and/or a Memorial Tree for myself or others.
Modern care for life’s hardest moments
We’re a modern funeral company reimagining how people plan, memorialize, and return to nature. No funeral home visits. No surprise bills. Just honest, compassionate care at every step.
Coordinated online. No in-person meetings, no extra steps.
Clear pricing. No hidden fees, no surprise bills.
Compassionate human care available anytime, 24/7.
Carbon-neutral cremation to a resting place in nature.
The complete
end-of-life journey
Every step of the Better Place process is designed to honor nature, from carbon-neutral cremation to a living memorial in a protected forest.
Cremation & Funerals
No funeral home visit needed.
- Flame cremation
- Aquamation
- Natural organic reduction
- Executor and grief support included
- Obituaries & all paperwork handled
Starting at $3,495
Memorials in Nature
A place in nature to return, forever.
- Memorial Trees
- Spreading Groves
- Nature Memorial Ceremonies
- Memorial Markers
- 9 Memorial Forests nationwide
Starting at $2,250
What families say
“I grew up in the funeral business and wanted something different. With Better Place, you get a caring team and a process done your way.”
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Celeste Atkins1 days agoToday we held my mom's celebration of life at Better Place Forests. We picked a beautiful ponderosa pine accessible from the road with a gorgeous view. Brian was wonderful explaining everything when we visited the tree in person last month. Today Gentry and Lara (I hope I spelled that right) were wonderful. Kind, respectful, helpful and patient. There was a reverence in the way they treated my mom's remains and I loved being able to create and direct the service. We were set for 1:30 but with afternoon showers threatening, they moved us to 10:30 and gave us all the time we needed. The rain hit just as we got back to the hotel. If you want something beautiful unique and a peaceful place to visit your loved one I highly recommend Better Place Forests In fact, I appreciated them so much that I wanted Gentry and Lara in the group photo![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Denise Petrin2 days agoMy daughter, son in law and I visited my husband's tree yesterday. It was a month since we had spread his ashes. We spent time at the tree honoring All Souls Day and the Day of the Dead. We had some Pear brandy( my husband's last name means pear tree in French)and poured some near his tree. We then went for a lovely walk on the trail. We love this place.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Michael Freeman9 days agoWe just had an amazing informed time here. I did not expect see such a vast space and such a beautiful layout. I emplor anyone of you that are reading these reviews to actually go to the physical location and have a tour. We had a tour with Karen and she was very informative and pleasant. what they have so far it's just a small slice of how amazing this place is going to be.![]()
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+4Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Timothy LaBore14 days agoI loved the place right away very peaceful the employees were excellent![]()
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Elisa Ordona17 days agoOur visit to the Memorial Forest was truly lovely and it was made even more special because they provided customizable metal markers that we could tap a message on to and then hang on our memorial tree, so beautiful 🙏😌![]()
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Yates Watson17 days agoThe Forest is truly one of the most beautiful and peaceful places imaginable. Its serene surroundings and warm, welcoming atmosphere are unparalleled. The hospitality team is always available to offer support, kindness, and comfort to visitors. Each visit is a special experience, leaving you with a deep sense of peace and appreciation. It is an exceptional memorial park that provides a beautiful and comforting place to remember and honor loved ones.![]()
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Edward X67 days agoBuen lugar para jugar con la nieve 😁😁![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Nettie T112 days agoA few months back we went to the forest to pick out our forever tree, and it was one of the best decisions ever made. Jessica was very helpful, thoughtful and knowledgeable. There was absolutely zero pressure which made the experience even better. This past week we spread our beloved dogs ashes at our tree. Although it was sad, it’s was beautiful. It’s comforting to know that she will be there to meet us again someday. To Jessica and the whole team, a deep heartfelt Thank You for all of your amazing help and support. I’m proud to be a part of the BPF family.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Robert Mayotte117 days agoMy wife has always been drawn to the serenity and peace of the forest. So when we discovered Better Place Forests Flagstaff it was a natural fit. We first visited the forest and our tree about a year before she passed and were taken not only with the views but the warm and helpful staff that explained the history of the forest itself and how the process worked. The Sunday our Forest Memorial was planned, the forest was experiencing 50 mph wind gusts and smoke from nearby wildfires. Consequently, the service was cancelled for safety reasons. Forest Memorials are normally scheduled Thursday through Sunday but when I explained we had out of town visitors that wanted to attend, they made a special arrangement the next day on Monday to accommodate our party. The family sends our sincere gratitude to Brian, the team lead at the site, for doing that for us when he didn't have to. We'll always remember that kindness. Our guests in attendance had never seen anything like this as a burial option and were naturally quite curious. They were in absolute awe as the wind passed through the aspen treetops surrounding our tree with the fern-covered forest floor below. It was beautiful. Thank you Better Place Forests for making this all possible.![]()
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+5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Silvana Brindisi161 days agoHaving a beautiful Ponderosa pine tree to come visit, picnic and enjoy nature is what helps my grief. Highly recommend Better Place Forest and their staff![]()
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
John McKinsey171 days agoI recently visited Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz and the experience exceeded every expectation. From the moment we arrived, the setting felt peaceful, intentional, and deeply respectful of both nature and memory. The forest itself is absolutely beautiful — quiet trails, towering trees, and a calming atmosphere that makes you instantly slow down and appreciate the surroundings. What truly stood out was the compassion and professionalism of the staff. Every person we spoke with was patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. They took the time to answer all our questions without pressure and helped us understand the vision behind Better Place Forests in a way that felt comforting and uplifting rather than overwhelming. The concept of honoring loved ones in a living forest is incredibly meaningful, and seeing it in person made it even more special. It feels less like a traditional memorial space and more like a place where families can reconnect with nature, reflect, and celebrate life. The property is exceptionally well maintained, and you can tell there is real care put into preserving the natural beauty of the land. If you are looking for a thoughtful, peaceful, and environmentally conscious memorial option, I highly recommend visiting Better Place Forests - Santa Cruz. It’s a truly unique and heartfelt experience that leaves a lasting impression.![]()
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+15Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Anita Martinez172 days agoMy son's ashes were spread under a tree there. It is so calm and peaceful.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
DesertFlyer178 days agoMy wife and I chose this beautiful place before she passed. It isn’t just peaceful and beautiful, it is a lasting contribution to preserving for our grandchildren and beyond a crucial part of our world. My visits here are carthidic and calming. The staff if always warm and accommodating. Thank you Better Place for making our final resting place meaningful.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mark Fitch218 days agoBetter Place Forest (now Everis) is the final resting place for our parents. Our family tree at Everis has been such a blessing to us. The forest is serene, beautiful, and reverent. We've visited nearly each year since our parent's ashes were placed at the base of our Family Memorial Tree.Each visit we reserve a date and time so when we are there the forest is all our own. The staff has been so nice and incredibly sensitive and encouraging. Their policies honor the sanctity of this place and the memory of all the loved ones there.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Carol McCormick219 days agoMy experiences are with Better Place Forests - Point Arena, now in association with Everis. This review is from June of 2024, but I feel just as strongly now (March 2026) as I did then. It’s just a year since my husband died (June 2023). Only 7 months since family joined me to scatter his ashes around the roots of his lovely tree, which stands tall and strong on a slope facing a Better Place Forest’s Founders’ Memorial. Yesterday I visited my husband’s tree with my sisters to support me. We and many others had gathered there to celebrate the forest around the Summer Solstice, sort of an open house. Ten to fifteen minutes drive from Point Arena, CA, the Better Place Forest is peaceful, stunningly beautiful, and a wonderful spot to visit to remember my dear husband. Others were visiting as well on Saturday, but, given the BPF covers some 20 acres, our visit still felt private and serene. The sight of his sturdy tree comforted me, as if his ashes had nourished it. We took advantage of the herbs and flowers station to make a small bouquet which we laid at the base of his tree. The staff were kind and welcoming (Alethea, both young women named Jessica, and a fourth young person whose name I cannot recall - I thank them all.) The pretty welcoming center sits gracefully nearby. A restroom is available there plus maps of the pathways for strolling. I’m grateful BPF exists because of my husband’s tree and because I’ll be added to it when I’m gone.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Sienna Hughes235 days agoWe recently visited Better Place Forests while searching for a unique and meaningful resting place for my sister. Navigating this process is never easy, but our guide, Martin, made the experience incredibly peaceful and comforting. He was so kind, patient, and compassionate with us. He took the time to walk us across the beautiful trails and carefully showed us all the different tree types available to choose from. Being out in nature really brought us a sense of peace. If you are looking for a beautiful, non-traditional memorial option for a loved one, I highly recommend visiting and asking for Martin."![]()
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Ken Lipshez280 days agoWe’ve been to the forest in CT twice to feel the spirit of helping the world become a better place.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Sharon Goldsmith280 days agoMy hopes were very high. The beauty and peace of the forest exceeded all expectations. A perfect day, a happy day! July 2022 I received a postcard about Better Place Forests. In a planning mode, I contacted them. Tad answered my many questions, and I chose a Young Tanoak at Point Arena for me and four beloved dogs: Jamie & Megan (deceased) and Tess & Kate. Loved this option of a final resting place, not knowing Tess would die soon and Kate a year later. May 2023 I traveled from Bakersfield to Point Arena to see our tree. Alethea graciously showed me our lovely tree, took photos and gave me a tour of the forest. Now it is 2026, and Better Place Forests is becoming a nonprofit to expand its preservation mission. I will add May, a sweet terrier mix I adopted from the local shelter last August, so some day she will join us in beautiful Point Arena Forest. With love and gratitude, I thank the BPF founders and staff.
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Judy Aleman285 days agoI’m so glad I found this place as my sister didn’t want to be put in a regular cemetery. My sisters and I have visited several times and always feel good knowing my sister and nephew have a great view of the ocean.![]()
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Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Christopher Kouzios305 days agoWe had a wonderful service for my daughter who died far too young. The staff was a pleasure to work with and made the experience easy but meaningful. It may seem like an odd way to be interred but it changed many of our minds about life after. 🩶 After much thought, my wife and I decided this would also be our final resting place. When that day inevitably comes, we have a spot ready not far from our daughter. We visited her on Christmas is this would be our first Christmas (2025) without her. The forest was silent, damp, cold and the skies were grey. Not a sound to be heard so we graced the forest with the forever angelic voice of our opera singer turned educator. It was both serene and surreal, but it’s definitely the kind of place that makes you feel a little bit better about the passing of a loved family member. There’s none of the coldness associated with rows of headstones and mausoleums. There’s just the forest: a blanket of leaves, naturally spaced trees, animals, birds, and now a part of our daughter. We will forever wish she was still with us however, if our only option is to inter her somewhere on this Earth, that is definitely the place that not only she wanted, but we have grown to understand and embrace.![]()
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Honor life, protect earth
Our partner Foundation exists to return people to nature and protect the forest that families come back to again and again, for generations.
Every acre we protect is a place where families can heal.
Meaningful ceremonies and gatherings, rooted in nature.
Helping people navigate loss, with nature as their guide.
Protecting spaces where healing happens naturally.
Talk to a Guide, 24/7
When you’re ready, we’re here.
Explore at your own pace
See the two ways families honor a life.
Questions?
We're here to help.
What is Better Place?
Better Place is a modern, digital-first funeral company offering carbon-neutral cremation including flame cremation, aquamation, and natural organic reduction in California. We handle everything families need including planning, respectful transportation, paperwork, online interactive obituaries, executor assistance, and ongoing grief support for families with transparency and exceptional service.
Better Place also offers living memorials in nine protected Memorial Forests located coast to coast where families can legally return ashes to nature at a private Memorial Tree or in a shared Spreading Grove. Additional services include Nature Memorial Ceremonies and Memorial Markers.
Is Better-Place.com a funeral home?
Better Place is a modern, digital-first funeral company reimagining how people plan, memorialize, and return to nature.
What services does Better Place provide?
Better Place offers complete services for your end-of-life journey from planning to ongoing grief support after the memorial including:
Online cremation arrangements: Better Place seamlessly coordinates every detail of your loved one’s final arrangements online—cremation, memorial services and all steps in between—with complete transparency, no funeral home appointments, no overlooked details.
Prepaid cremation arrangements: Preplan carbon-neutral cremation to a celebration of life in nature. Our digital platform makes it easy to lock in pricing, make your wishes known, and ensure peace of mind that everything is taken care of—all online, without missing a step.
Carbon-neutral cremation: Flame cremation, aquamation, and natural organic reduction.
Living memorials: Options to spread ashes at Memorial Trees or in Spreading Groves at nine Memorial Forests located throughout the United States with a Nature Memorial Ceremony and Memorial Marker.
Memorial Tree: A Memorial Tree is your private tree in a protected forest where ashes are spread—a natural, alternative to traditional cemeteries.
Spreading Grove: A Spreading Grove is a shared, peaceful area within a protected forest where your loved one’s ashes are spread—a simple, natural alternative to traditional burial.
Memorial ceremony: A Nature Memorial Ceremony is a peaceful, personalized, eco-friendly ceremony where family and friends can gather to return your loved one’s ashes to the earth in a protected Memorial Forest—creating a meaningful, uplifting experience surrounded by life.
Memorial markers: Memorial Markers are permanent bronze plaques that mark the sacred location where your loved one’s ashes have been spread—transforming a grove or tree into a meaningful gathering place for family and friends.
Obituaries & tributes: Create an interactive online obituary where loved ones can share stories, videos, photos, and memories—all in one lasting place.
Executor assistance: We work hand-in-hand with families to lift the weight of settling an estate—closing accounts faster, avoiding missed steps, and handling every notification so nothing slides through the cracks.
Grief support services: We’re here for your family’s journey, providing compassionate grief support with education, articles, help texts, in-forest events, webinars, and remembrance tools long after arrangements are complete.
Can I arrange cremation services online?
Yes. Our digital platform makes it easy to plan complete end-of-life care including carbon-neutral cremation and a resting place in nature with transparency, confidence, and clarity at every step. No pressure. No sales tactics.
What is included in online cremation planning?
Better Place complete cremation arrangements includes respectful transportation, paperwork, carbon-neutral cremation including flame cremation, aquamation, or natural organic reduction, ashes returned in a beautiful urn, an online interactive obituary, executor assistance, and ongoing grief support for loved ones.
What funeral services can be planned online?
We offer complete cremation arrangements. Our Complete Cremation package includes respectful transportation, carbon-neutral cremation, all paperwork including death certificates, online interactive obituary, executor assistance, and ongoing grief support. When you’re ready you can plan a resting place in nature and a ceremony. If there’s another service you’re interested in like a funeral or viewing, talk to a Guide who can help make it happen.
What is online funeral planning?
Online funeral planning is a modern and convenient way for families to preplan or arrange end-of-life services. At Better Place our digital platform makes it easy to plan complete end-of-life care including carbon-neutral cremation and a resting place in nature with transparency, confidence, and clarity at every step. No pressure. No sales tactics.
Can I get help immediately after a death?
Yes. Better Place helps families arrange immediate cremation quickly and compassionately, either online or by phone, 24/7. If you need immediate help, please call us at 628-254-0913. We are available 24/7.
Does Better Place help with memorials and obituaries?
Yes. We offer free online interactive obituaries as well as living memorials in nature. Choose between a private Memorial Tree or shared Spreading Grove in one of nine Memorial Forests located throughout the United States.



