If you are like most people, you regard the purchase of a memorial tombstone as the final tribute you can offer to your deceased loved one.  As you plan the permanent record of your loved one’s life, keep these 3 things in mind, as they will assist you in making the best decisions.    

1. A well planned memorial contributes to the healing process

Memorialization is one of mankind’s oldest traditions because it satisfies the desire to remember and honor the life of a loved one.  We know so much about many past civilizations because of their reverence for memorialization. Over the years, we have seen first hand the positive impact of a well planned memorial tombstone. On the other hand, a poorly planned memorial tombstone may result in a permanent mistake. 

We understand that losing a loved one is often the most difficult time in one’s life, and we encourage family’s to take the right amount of time to plan the memorial. This can be a few days, weeks, or months. Taking action within the first six months after a death can allow enough time to compose your thoughts without too much time passing.

Families often describe the finalization of the memorial as a comforting relief.

2. No two memorials are made the same

The memorial you purchase will be made only once.  It is a unique, record of your loved one’s life engraved permanently in stone. It is an artisan craft, and the quality of the design, materials, engraving, and permanence are a direct reflection of the monument company who produces the gravestone. Apples to apples does not apply in a creative industry like memorial design.

While some funeral homes and cemeteries sell monuments, seldom do they understand the craft of memorial design. Make sure the monument company you choose is skilled in artistic craft and understands your needs.

3. Never settle for less than your loved one deserves

Far too often, we see families accept less than they deserve simply because they were never given options. The truth is, most monument sellers treat the purchase of a monument like a commodity. Many lack the ability to think creatively, and are only able to sell you whatever fits inside their little toolbox or catalog of mass-produced bad designs.

But, your loved one was special, and their memorial tombstone should be special too. Don’t rush the purchase of a headstone, and don’t work with just any monument company. Make sure that the monument company you choose has an outstanding reputation and portfolio of past works. An excellent monument company will be able to guide you to making the best decision.

Finding a reputable monument company is easier than you may think. The American Institute of Commemorative Art is a select group of the top 50 headstone designers and monument makers in North America. Visit their website for a list of the best monument companies in North America.

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