How to Start a Grave Marker Business

Grave markers at a cemetery

When people have to bury loved ones, there are a few things that are typically essential: a burial plot, casket and grave marker. Grave markers are the customized plaques that typically list the deceased's name and dates of birth and death. Sometimes surviving family members opt to have the deceased's photo or a quote engraved on the marker as well. Starting a grave-marker business can be quite profitable, especially if you make them yourself and offer customized options to your clients. To be successful, you will need to do a bit of planning and research before opening for business.

Instructions

1. Decide whether you will make the grave markers yourself or buy them wholesale from a company such as Granit-Bronz. If you plan to make them yourself, you will need to have a workshop or space to make the grave markers, as well as engraving and cutting equipment.

2. Obtain a tax identification number or resale permit from your state, if required. You will also need to obtain an assumed name certificate (DBA) after you name your business.

3. Choose a place to sell your grave markers. You can sell them online on your own e-commerce site, through an artisan marketplace such as Etsy or 1000 Markets (if you make your own grave markers) or at a brick-and-mortar retail store. Starting online costs less money and will allow you to take orders from people all around the country.

4. Promote your business by placing ads in your local business directory or phone book. You can also try handing out fliers and coupons to local cemeteries and funeral homes, since they are complementary businesses.

5. Apply to join a funeral industry association, such as the International Cemetery and Funeral Association, so that you can network with suppliers, funeral homes, cemetery sites and other grave-marker producers.

References

• Grave Markers: Big Business of Cemeteries
• Grave Markers: The "Big Two" Grave Marker Manufacturing Companies