Things to Consider When Choosing a Grave Marker or Headstone

Things to Consider When Choosing a Grave Marker or Headstone

Death is inevitable and when it occurs, it leaves a void that is difficult to fill. The memory of your loved ones lives on, and you want to keep them close to your heart. One of the ways that you can immortalize your loved ones is by choosing a grave marker or headstone that will evoke memories of them. While headstones might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a funeral, they are an important aspect of the burial process that you should consider. With so many options out there, choosing the right grave marker or headstone can be overwhelming. In this post, we’ll explore some of the things you should consider when choosing a grave marker or headstone.

1. Cemetery requirements

Before you start the process, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the cemetery requirements. Each cemetery has its own set of guidelines regarding the type, size, color, and material of the headstone or grave marker they allow. Some cemeteries may not allow certain types of materials such as metal or wood while others might require a certain dimension of the headstone. Ensure that you understand what is required by the cemetery and, if you have any questions, ask their staff for clarification.

2. Personal preferences

While cemetery requirements play a big role in determining the type of headstone or grave marker you can get, your personal preferences should also be considered. Think about what the deceased would have preferred and what’s meaningful to you and your family. This could include the type of stone, the color, and the design. You can opt for a traditional design or a personalized one. In fact, you can have custom headstones or grave markers created which reflect the personality of the deceased.

3. Budget

Grave markers and headstones come in different sizes, materials, and designs, all of which have varying costs. The cost of a headstone can range from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars depending on your preferences. Before you make any decisions, it’s important to determine your budget. This will help you to narrow down your options and make an informed choice without breaking the bank.

4. Material

Headstones and grave markers come in various materials including granite, marble, bronze, and even wood. Each material has its own unique qualities, but the two most popular materials for grave markers and headstones are granite and bronze. Granite is popular because it’s durable, comes in various colors, and it’s easy to inscribe. On the other hand, bronze is also durable and it comes with a beautiful finish and design options. It’s also easy to maintain and can last for many years.

5. Inscription

The inscription on the headstone or grave marker is the most important feature as it represents the life and legacy of the deceased. The inscription can include the name, date of birth, date of death, and even a quote or personalized message. When choosing the inscription, ensure that it is a true reflection of the deceased and is relevant to their life. You can also choose to include religious symbols, images, or emblems that represent the deceased’s beliefs.

6. Size and shape

While the size and shape of the headstone may not seem important, they play a significant role. The size of the headstone should be proportional to the plot and the cemetery requirement. The shape of the headstone can vary depending on your preferences and the personal taste of the deceased.

7. Maintenance

Finally, it’s important to consider the maintenance of the headstone or grave marker. Some materials such as granite require less maintenance and are easy to clean. Others like marble require a bit more upkeep to maintain their shine and finish. Bronze is also an ideal option for those who are looking for a material that requires very little maintenance. The location of the plot such as weather conditions should also be taken into account. All these factors will help you to choose a headstone that is easy to maintain and will last for many years.

Summary

When choosing a headstone or grave marker for your loved one, remember that it is a representation of their life and legacy. It is important to choose a design that is personalized and unique. Take into consideration the cemetery requirements, personal preferences, budget, material, inscription, size and shape and maintenance. By considering all these factors, you will be able to make a well-informed decision that honors the memory of your loved one for years to come.

Working With Phillipsburg Memorial Company

For more than eight decades, the Phillipsburg Memorial Company has been providing local-area residents with a wide range of granite gravestones and cemetery markers. We’re committed to helping our customers find memorials that honor and preserve their legacy or the legacy of their loved one. Contact us today or see site for more info: https://phillipsburgmemorial.com/

Categorised in: Grave Markers, Headstone