Memorials and headstones are available in many different materials, colors and sizes, and so choosing between them can be confusing.
You should start with the color. What was your loved ones favorite color? Granite headstones come in pretty much every color, so do not think that you are restricted to choosing from black, gray and white. The majority of cemeteries permit various colors of headstones and memorials, unfortunately churchyards are stricter. Your cemetery or churchyard should be able to provide you with a copy of their rules and regulations.
Once you have chosen the color, spend some time thinking about what writing should be engraved onto the headstone or memorial. You should definitely include the name of the deceased, and the dates of their birth and death, but the rest of the epitaph is free for you to add your messages of love or favorite sayings.
Most headstones and memorials come in set sizes. Bigger is not necessarily mean better; a smaller, better quality one can be equally as nice. Churchyards will only permit headstones or memorials up to a maximum height, but most cemeteries will allow them to be any size. You can also personalize the headstone or memorial with a design too. Many different designs are available to be sandblasted or laser etched on to it. These can range from simple flower headers and crosses to a portrait of your loved one, or engravings of their favorite pastime or pet.
You can get ideas by looking on the Internet, as there are lots of websites that have online catalogs of headstones and memorials. You can also take a walk around a churchyard or cemetery near where you live to see which styles you prefer. As with everything in life, prices will vary and are negotiable, so be sure to enquire about discounts and be prepared to visit at least a few stores. Once your order has been placed, you can expect the memorial or headstone to be completed in less than a month.
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You are now ready to take your memorial design to a memorial mason.
