When designing a grave marker for a loved one, you can memorialize the person’s personality and life by adding a few personal touches. With the wide variety of styles and options available, however, it can be difficult to know where to start. Use this guide to learn more about a few key considerations to keep in mind when designing a memorial.

5 Factors to Consider When Designing a Memorial

1. Size

If you have decided on a cemetery for your loved one’s memorial service and burial, ask the cemetery manager if the site has any restrictions on memorial sizes. Upright memorials are usually about 3 – 4 feet high and 1.5 – 3 feet wide, while slant, bevel and flat/plaque-style markers typically take up less space. Once you have a size range, begin thinking about how much text you can reasonably fit on the size you chose.

2. Shape

The shape of the memorial provides an opportunity to add a unique touch. For example, you can choose a clean-looking straight-topped marker. The clear-cut lines usually pair well with a simple script.

For a design with less rigidity, opt for an oval top and pick an elegant script. There are also options in between, such as half-oval, roof-style, and serpentine tops which are most commonly seen.

3. Material

Granite is commonly used for memorial markers because it can withstand years of exposure to the elements. However, bronze is another materials that can help your loved one’s memorial stand out.

4. Emblems

You may have seen other memorials with emblems etched into the material. While this is not required (unless noted by the cemetery), you can choose a significant design that represents your loved one’s religion or interests, like a cross or a sports team logo.

5. Photos

If you want to add your favorite photo of your family member, you can have it etched into black granite to create a detailed grayscale image. You can also pick out a digital photo to be copied. This process directly transfers the picture onto a ceramic tile that will be embedded in the memorial.

 

For personalized grave markers, contact Sweet-Woods Memorial Co. in Phoenix, NY. Since 1932, this family-owned company has helped grieving families throughout Syracuse and Oswego, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Madison counties memorialize and celebrate their loved ones. You can start the memorial marker design process by calling (315) 695-3376 or by looking at style options on their website.