After the death of a loved one, making funeral plans can seem overwhelming. Taking the time to select a memorial as a permanent remembrance of the deceased is just as daunting. Where should you begin? Here, the team at Quincy Memorials, serving the Greater Boston, MA, area, lists seven simple steps for selecting the right memorial for your loved one.

5 Steps for Choosing a Memorial When You’re Making Funeral Plans

1. Provide Information

As part of the funeral plan, provide the location where the memorial will be placed. This includes the cemetery lot number and section and type of lot.

2. Select the Type

After determining if there are any lot restrictions at the cemetery, the memorial can be chosen. There are a number of options, including beveled, slanted, or flat grave markers, upright monuments, and bronze dedication plaques. 

3. Choose the Size, Color, & Material

The size will typically be determined by the cemetery's guidelines to accommodate the lots. You’ll also need to select the color and material. Granite is a popular choice because of its durability, and the stone comes in a variety of colors. Other popular options are marble and slate. Keep in mind the price will vary based on availability and quarry pricing.

4. Choose the Features, Font, & Carving Design

Work with a specialist to determine which finish you’d like to use. The most common choices are honed, rough, polished, and unpolished steel. At this point, the memorial's shape is also chosen, as is the lettering. The expert will also review carving choices with you and have you choose between etching, extra deep, flat, sculpture, and shape.

5. Design the Layout

Once all the memorial's features have been selected, the layout is designed. This includes determining where the panels, epitaphs, and additional names will be placed. A number of layout options are available, including date layouts, epitaphs, and panels.

Knowing the steps ahead of time will ease the burden of making funeral plans when you’re grieving. For the best services in Boston, turn to Quincy Memorials. To learn more, call (617) 471-0250, and an experienced monument maker will gladly provide guidance. Visit the website for extensive information on other markers to remember your loved ones.