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4 Signs a Headstone Needs Restoration
Headstones are made with durable materials, often granite, that are designed to last for decades. But time, moisture, and ground settling can cause monuments to accumulate wear and tear. Annual upkeep services are often offered by headstone sellers. If you don’t have that option, or you’ve forgotten about it for a few years, many companies offer professional headstone cleaning. This process can involve removing hard water, mildew and mold; polishing vases or bronze plaques; edging the grass; placing or planting flowers; and detailing the engravings. Older and more severely damaged headstones may require repairing imperfections in the stone and resetting…
Alternatives to Saying “I’m Sorry for Your Loss”
There are truly no words to adequately describe the shock of learning someone has passed. When the people we care about are grieving, we want to provide any comfort we can. We may say something like “I am sorry for your loss,” and this is a fine thing to say. But it can often feel cliche and impersonal. Truly, the sympathy we feel is too great for words. If someone you know has lost a loved one, there are many alternative affections you can offer. Offer Your Support Grief can be a terribly isolating feeling. While the rest of the…
What to Expect When Contacting a Monument Company
After the death of a loved one, it can be difficult to consider the more practical matters of laying them to rest. Contacting the monument company, for example, is one of the most important parts of the process. That’s why it’s so important to choose the right company to create your memorial products. When you find a company that offers high-quality products, along with compassion and guidance, the entire process becomes a lot simpler. Here is what you should expect when contacting a monument design company. They Listen to Your Needs Unfortunately, not all businesses perform at the same level…
Guide to Common Headstone Symbols
While headstones can be as unique as the people they’re meant to memorialize, the symbolism that’s been common to gravestones throughout the ages. But often, what a symbol means can be a little difficult to figure out, especially on older headstones. Here are some common headstone symbols and what they mean: Whether you use this guide to help you select symbols for a loved one’s headstone or you’re planning to visit an historical cemetery, you’ll be better prepared to better understand what all the images you see mean. Headstones for Maryland Cemeteries From plain and simple headstones to intricately carved…
How to Find a Gravesite
Visiting gravesites is as much a study in common history as it is getting in touch with your own personal history. Whether you’re looking for a grave in a cemetery nearby or one across the country, you can use the steps below to help you find the site you’re looking for. 1. Gather Information About the Deceased In order to find the right grave, you need to know what you’re looking for. Some information that will be helpful in your search includes: You can find this information in census records, family records, newspapers, and even by calling local records offices…
What Is a Cremation Stone?
If a loved one is cremated, you may have heard of the option of getting a “cremation stone” or “cremation rock.” created. These keepsakes are newer on the market, so you may wonder what they are and why you may consider purchasing one. What Is a Cremation Stone? A cremation stone is, simply, a stone-like construction made of a deceased person’s ashes. They come in a variety of colors and shapes and are similar in texture to ceramic. Up to 100% of a person’s ashes can be used in creating cremation stones. To create a cremation stone, the ash is…
5 Tips for Writing a Eulogy
Whether a close friend or a family member has passed away, you’ve been asked to give them a heartfelt send-off by giving the eulogy. This can be a daunting task for many, especially if you’re not a writer. If this is something you’ve been asked to undertake, here are some tips for writing a eulogy that will memorialize your loved one well. Choose a Tone A eulogy should be heartfelt and sincere, but it doesn’t have to be completely somber. If you’re comfortable with telling a few jokes and funny stories, by all means, tell them. Just be sure to…
3 Tips for Choosing the Right Photo for a Headstone
As technology has evolved, so has what that technology is able to produce. That means that traditional headstones with a name and some dates, maybe an epitaph, have grown into beautiful tributes that can showcase a photo of the dearly departed for all to see. If you’re considering a photo headstone for yourself or someone you love, here’s what you need to know about choosing the right photo for the job: Choose the Correct Photo Type Your first task is to choose what type of photo you want engraved. Most families opt for a headshot-type photo of their loved one,…
How to Plan for Family Plots or Companion Graves
Death is something most people would rather not think about until they have to. However, when it comes to purchasing a burial plot, it’s crucial to plan ahead. This is because burial land is becoming more and more scarce. As most cemeteries reach full capacity, the price of plots is increasing, and if you wait too long, you might not be able to secure the final resting place you’ve always envisioned. Planning ahead is especially crucial for those who are hoping to be buried alongside their loved ones. Companion graves take up more space, so you’ll need to secure these…
4 Tips for Planning a Military Funeral
Planning a funeral is a huge responsibility, especially if the deceased person served in the military. Veterans are eligible for certain honors and benefits as provided by the Veterans Association, or VA. These options allow you to properly honor the life that was lost as well as their sacrifice, service, and dedication to our country. But they can be a little overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. Here are our tips for planning a military funeral. Contact the VA to Receive Benefits The VA may help cover some of the costs of the funeral, but it is your…