How to Select a Grave Marker
Grave markers come in a vast array of sizes, materials and styles. Common materials are granite and bronze. New technology reaches cemeteries, too, and some grave markers play a short video. When a loved one dies, selecting a grave marker is one of the most permanent things you will do for them. The grave marker you select will remain for eternity. Everyone who visits the grave will see the marker. If you select a grave marker correctly, visitors will walk away knowing how special your loved one was to you and your family.
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Instructions
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Check with the cemetery where your loved one is buried. It may have height or material requirements or regulations you must adhere to before selecting a grave marker.
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Select the wording for the grave marker. This includes your loved one's name, date of birth and date of death. Consider adding a small epitaph to memorialize your loved one. An epitaph is a simple phrase that sums up the person's belief or perhaps your feelings for your loved one. For example, "Beloved wife and mother."
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Shop around for a grave marker by checking with the cemetery and funeral director's sources. Also check prices online. Keep in mind the cost of installation when checking prices.
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Check the finished grave marker as soon as possible, preferably before it is set in place. This provides you an opportunity to check for errors.
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Tips & Warnings
If your loved one was a member of the armed forces, you may be able to receive a free grave marker from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
If your loved one was cremated or you plan to share the grave site, consider ordering a single marker for both grave sites.
Try to avoid buying the grave marker from the cemetery or funeral home. Most of the time, the prices are inflated and your emotions may cause you to choose something other than what you truly want.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit headstone image by Ken Marshall from Fotolia.com
