Losing a loved one can be a trying moment, and planning for the burial can be even more stressful. A headstone, also known as a grave marker, should eternally memorialize your loved one. But how do you choose one that befits the deceased, especially when they didn’t leave a wish of how they want it to look?
This article discusses a guide to choosing the best headstone for your loved one. Read on.
Inquire About The Cemetery’s Rules On Headstones
Some cemeteries may have restrictions on the type and size of headstones. Some have recommended similar designs with specific materials to create the headstone, while others are open to whatever design you choose. Before settling on one, talk to the cemetery manager, and find out if there are any headstone regulations.
Find Out The Cemetery’s Headstone Installation Packages
In line with the cemeteries’ rules on headstones, some cemeteries may have their preferred headstone design and installation service providers that they can recommend to you for uniformity. Find out from the cemetery manager if they have their headstone makers and installers, and compare the pricing with your preferred ones.
If they do not have any, you can always look for recommendations from your family or friends. You can also visit https://www.olympiamarble.com.au and other reputable headstone design and installation service providers. Just remember to check their credentials and packages offered to get the perfect memorial headstone for your fallen loved one.
Have A Budget
Some people may leave a comprehensive plan on how they would like their send-off, complete with prepaid funds to cater for the same. In this case, you may need to find out if the deceased left a budget for their headstone. If not, come up with funding for the monument. Headstones can be expensive to install, so come up with a budget that’s not so extravagant but still represents the departed’s personality.
Materials And Design
Once you have a budget set in place, you can now go ahead and choose a headstone that you like. If you’re clueless about what to choose, you can always visit the cemetery, look at some of the designs, and choose something that resonates with you. You can also research on the internet. Headstones come in varied shapes, including book-shaped, heart-shaped, serpentine-shaped, cross-shaped, and tear-shaped designs.
The headstone materials will depend on your preference, but you can choose between bronze, limestone, marble, granite, which is the most preferred, and stainless steel. Different types of headstones are available in the market, which you need to understand before settling on one. The Four commonly used are;
- The Kerbed Headstone: It is a monument that’s full length laid flat on the ground and has to be used with an upright headstone.
- Upright Headstone: It is held to the ground by a concrete base and is mainly made from limestone, marble, or granite. It’s the most commonly chosen headstone.
- Flat Headstone: They are concrete, bronze, or stone set flat on the ground. You can attach a plaque to it and have your inscriptions on the plaque.
- Raised-Flat Marker: This is a headstone that slopes from the rear.
When choosing the ideal material and design for a headstone, ensure to stay within the budget without skimping on quality.
Pick The Headstone Finish
The headstone finish you choose will determine how durable the headstone will be and the final outlook of the monument. Some cemeteries restrict the use of polished headstones because they are reflective. In such a case, you can opt for semi-polished and honed finishes since they’re long-lasting.
Other people may choose to incorporate accessories as part of the headstone finish. You can decide between a cremation urn, a flower vase, a flag, or stone angels to place on the headstone.
Pick Your Preferred Inscription
When choosing the inscription, keep in mind the size of the headstone. It should accommodate your loved one’s name, date of birth, and demise. You may not necessarily have to include an entire Bible verse, but rather, opt for a short poem that still reflects their personality and lifestyle.
If you still have enough space, you can consider adding a farewell message, their photo, or their favourite photo showing their accomplishments or memorable events in life. You should carefully choose a font that adds to the beauty of the headstone. You can also consider having meaningful designs and symbols carved on the headstone.
Consult With Your Family
After you’ve done all the above steps, you must present the final draft of how the headstone will look to your close family before you send it to the headstone supplier. It’s essential to ensure everyone’s feelings are considered regarding the inscription and overall design. Once you are all in agreement, you can now proceed to have the headstone made.
Conclusion
Just like making the funeral arrangement, choosing a headstone is an elaborate yet emotional process; that said, you do not want to rush it. Take your time since you may not have a chance to change it once you’ve placed it on the grave. Make sure you choose something that reflects the life of your loved one.
