How to design the perfect monument

Memorials are permanent structures erected to remember loved ones. Who is it for, and what do you want it to say about that person or persons and to others who see the memorial? They should be designed with an idea of who the person was and what they loved about life. Interests, hobbies, and faith are just a few of the things to consider. The best way to make sure a memorial says what it should about the person is to have input from that person before they pass. Pre-Need purchasing assures that you get what you want rather than what someone else thinks you want.

Every cemetery, and in many cases sections within a cemetery, can have different rules about the type and size of monuments. Understanding the regulations can help you choose a monument that will work for a particular plot. Be aware of the surroundings and how you would like the monument to look in relation to others and the landscape. We can help you with that.

When choosing and designing a monument, have a budget in mind, but ask for everything you would ideally like. You can always work backwards if the initial price exceeds your budget. There may be less expensive options that will memorialize your loved one in a similar way, but not overextend yourself financially. Keep in mind that there may be cemetery fees and a foundation cost.

Realistically, how many names should be planned for the stone? Monuments can be for one person, multiple people, or for an entire family. Memorials should always be designed with future names in mind or you risk designing something that may not accommodate all the names you'd wish to add someday. You can utilize the back of the stone and base if needed and allowed.

You have the option when designing a memorial to engrave full dates or just years. Depending on the size of the monument, it may be best to use just the years.

Dark polished colours usually have the best contrast in relation to the engraved lettering and design work. With some lighter colours, panels or paint are necessary to make the information visible. If space is limited and you have a dark stone, you probably don't need a panel. If the stone is to be diamond-etched, a black stone is best.

White space is a print marketing term that basically explains the area in print without words or pictures. Sometimes, less is more on monuments as well. It is not necessary to fill every spot on the stone with words, designs, etc. You want to have some white space to draw attention to the family name and/or design.

Whatever you decide to do, remember that engraving deep into a monument is your best bet for longevity. Colouring, lithocrome and gold leaf are not guaranteed as weather and forces out of the control of the retailer can lessen the life of these add-ons. Many can be touched up at an additional cost.

Porcelain portraits, hero medallions, etchings, vases, and vigil lights are just a few of the things you can add to your stone for personalization. Many of these things can also be added later.

You know the old saying “A picture says 1000 words.” Although this may be true, sometimes there is no better way to say something than to write it out. Quotes, song lyrics, poems, bible verses, and inspirational quotes are very popular and effective in stating who a person was, and can be added to any monument memorial.

Thanks to Quality Memorials for this wonderful guide!