Your family member is now at rest, you have said goodbye,and it is time to create a fitting tribute to them. But how do you decide which type of stone, what color lettering and which inscription? They are available in a wide range of materials, colors and sizes. For example, marble, stone and granite memorials are all available sizes, and so choosing between them can be confusing.
Start with the color. Maybe go with your loved ones favorite color.Granite headstones are available in nearly every color, so do not think that you are restricted to choosing from just black, gray and white.
The majority of cemeteries permit various colors of headstones and memorial plaques, but churchyards are stricter. If in doubt, ask the churchyard or cemetery for a copy of the rules and regulations.
Having chosen your color, spend some time thinking about what writing should be engraved onto the headstone or memorial. You should definitely include the name, date of birth and date of death of the deceased, but you are not limited to just that. Consider adding one of their favorite sayings, or some words that best describe them.
You can also personalize it with a design too. Many different designs can be sandblasted or laser etched on to it. These can range from simple flower headers and crosses to a portrait of your loved one.
The majority of headstones and memorials come in set sizes, from really small to very big. Bigger does not necessarily mean better; a smaller, higher quality one can be just as nice. Churchyards will only permit headstones or memorials under a certain height, but most cemeteries will allow them to be any size.
You can get ideas by looking on the Internet; you will find lots of websites that have online catalogs of them. Alternatively, you could take a walk around a cemetery or churchyard near where you live to see which styles you prefer.
You should make a shortlist of details that you want on it, or even draw a sketch of how you want it to look. Once you have done this, it is time to contact a few headstone and memorial stores to ascertain if they are able to create your chosen style and design.
Prices will vary and are normally negotiable, so be sure to enquire about discounts and be prepared to shop around. Once you have placed your order, you can expect the memorial or headstone to be completed in less than a month.