Purchasing a headstone or monument is one of the most meaningful decisions you will make for a loved one. This guide walks you through every step of the process so you can make an informed choice with confidence.
The first decision is selecting the type of monument. Upright monuments, also called headstones, stand above the grave and give the inscription the most room. Flat markers, sometimes called grass-level markers, sit flush with the ground and are commonly required in certain sections of cemeteries. Slant markers offer a middle ground, with an angled face that is easy to read and a lower profile than an upright. A separate guide on this site compares those three forms on one page so you do not have to piece the choice together from three articles.
Before you begin designing, contact your cemetery to ask about their specific requirements. Most cemeteries have rules about monument size, material, foundation specifications, and even the type of finish allowed. Some cemeteries require that you use their own foundation contractor, while others allow the monument company to handle everything. Getting these details early prevents delays and ensures your monument will be approved on the first submission.
Once you understand the cemetery's rules, you can start the design process. Today's technology allows you to see your monument in full 3D before it is carved. Choose your granite color, select fonts for the inscription, and add artwork or symbols that reflect your loved one's life. Many families include religious symbols, military emblems, hobbies, or nature scenes. Take your time with the inscription — this is the most personal part of the memorial.
After your design is finalized, the cemetery still has to accept it, and the stone still has to be cut, finished, and lettered. The shape, the granite, and the artwork change how much work that is. Ask the company you order from how they will keep you posted, and ask them for timing that belongs to your cemetery and your design. This guide does not promise a delivery date. Once the monument is finished, a setting crew places it on a proper foundation at the cemetery. A quality monument, installed with care, can stay legible for generations with simple cleaning.