Funeral Homes: A Guide

If you've just said goodbye to a loved one, then you may still be mourning their loss and will be trying to come to terms with the situation. You may be making arrangements for the funeral and dealing with the will, but you will also want to create a long-lasting memorial in their honour. Yet if this is not something that you have done before, you may not know where to start, so what is the best way to remember them for posterity?

Consultation

This is not a decision to take lightly as, of course, a memorial like this can last for generations. You may need to consult with other people in your immediate family or close friends of the dearly departed to make sure that you make the right choice.

The Rules

To begin with, see if the cemetery has any specific regulations or other requirements that you may need to take into account. Sometimes they will dictate the maximum size or shape of a monument, or you may only be permitted to use specific colours or material.

The Material

Ideally, you should choose granite for your memorial as it is extremely durable and will look good for years to come. You can choose from a variety of different colours depending on its origin, and the location will generally determine the price.

The Detail

Next, think about the inscription. These days, you can use laser technology to come up with something unique and carefully tailored. Do you want to include a passage, religious verse, a favourite saying or an image of some kind? What type of design do you want to incorporate, and do you want to use a particular shape of stone for any reason?

Some people may choose to write a eulogy, while others may be content to simply include the basic details. Remember, your choice of inscription may only be limited by your imagination these days, due to the available technology and the skill of the craftsman.

Making Your Choice

It's worth putting a lot of thought and effort into your preparation. Don't be afraid to consult with cemetery monument suppliers and engravers to see if they can provide you with some additional inspiration if needed. You can also reach out to your funeral director, who may have some other ideas and who may have worked with these skilled artisans in the past.

Remember, this may take some time to complete, so you are in no immediate hurry but will nevertheless want to do a good job in their honour.