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What Is Aquamation?
When a person is planning their end-of-life arrangements, there are a lot of choices to make. One of these choices is what happens to the body. Traditional burials and flame cremations have been the two most common options in our culture for a very long time. But recently, as people have become more conscious of their environmental impact, alternative methods of disposition have become accessible. One of these methods is aquamation, also known as “alkaline hydrolysis,” “green cremation,” and “flameless cremation.” How Does Aquamation Work? Aquamation takes advantage of the natural decomposition process and the dissolving powers of water. This…
6 Steps to Planning a Graveside Burial
When it comes to the ceremony of honoring your deceased loved one, there are a few options available. One way to do this is a graveside burial. This ceremony occurs at the burial site, typically after the casket is already in place, or right before it is to be lowered. A graveside ceremony can also be held for people who are cremated, such as at a mausoleum or other place of interment. Benefits to a Graveside Burial There are many reasons you might choose a graveside burial service. Typically, these services are quicker and less expensive than a full funeral…
Guide to Headstone Terminology
Organizing the funerary arrangements of a loved one is a huge responsibility. As you begin your research, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the options available. Choosing a headstone is a difficult process for most people, and it can be all the more confusing if you are unaware of the terminology associated with laying a person to rest. Luckily, Merkle Monuments is here to help. With a better understanding of the jargon, you can have more confidence in choosing the perfect memorial for the person you have lost. Here is our beginners guide to headstone terminology: Memorial: A structure or…
How Long Does It Take to Set a Headstone?
Often, the final step of putting your loved one to rest is setting the headstone at the site of the grave. Movies and television may mislead some people into thinking the headstone can be erected at the same time as the burial. But this is not true. There is at least a several weeks’ wait in between, most of the time it’s several months. There are many factors that affect the timeline of setting a headstone, including the regulations of the cemetery. Here is everything you need to know about how long it really takes to set a headstone: Letting…
Pre-Need vs. At-Need Headstones
Preparing for your funeral and end-of-life arrangements while you’re still perfectly healthy might feel a little morbid. But for many people, discussing these wishes before their passing can bring peace of mind to them and their family members. In fact, in recent years, the demand for pre-need headstones has increased, as more people are choosing to take their funeral decisions into their own hands. Read on to discover if pre-need or at-need headstone is right for you. At-Need Headstones There are not many benefits to buying a headstone the moment you need it. After a loved one passes, there are…
Where Do Granite Headstones Come From?
Headstones have always taken a journey from the quarry to the cemetery, but modern headstones are traveling farther than ever. If you’ve ever wondered where granite headstones come from, we’ve got your answer! Where Does the Granite for Headstones Come From? Modern granite headstones, built to last for centuries, come from quarries around the world. Some common locations include Vermont, Georgia, Canada, India, China, and Sweden. In many cases, manufacturers source the stones as locally as possible to save on the burden of shipping potentially fragile stones long distances. However, there is a growing trend of American headstone creators sourcing…
4 Tips for Writing a Headstone Epitaph
Laying a loved one to rest can be a difficult time. Many people feel comforted by the small ways they can honor and memorialize the life that was lost, such as writing an epitaph. An epitaph is a short written phrase about the deceased person. They are typically inscribed on a headstone or memorial plaque. If you are unsure where to start, follow these four tips for writing a headstone epitaph: Adhere to Their Wishes If the person knew they were nearing the end of their life, it is very possible they may have chosen or written their own epitaph….
3 Benefits of Bronze Memorial Markers
Choosing a memorial marker to honor a deceased loved-one can be both daunting and incredibly rewarding. This piece of the funerary process honors their life and memory while also commemorating their final resting place. Furthermore, it can help facilitate closure and healing through the grieving process. But all the options available on the market can sometimes make your head spin. Marble and stone are traditional choices, but bronze memorial markers are just as popular today. If you’re considering a bronze memorial marker for your loved one, here are three benefits of this amazing material: Customization The biggest benefit associated with…
How to Plan a Pet’s Memorial Service
The loss of a cherished pet can feel no different from the loss of a family member. The grief can be overwhelming, especially if the loss was unexpected. A pet memorial will be slightly different from a funeral service for a human, but the intention is the same. This is an opportunity to celebrate the life, memories, and good times you’ve had with your furry friend. It also facilitates the coping process as you lay your pet to rest and say a final goodbye. If you’re planning a pet memorial service, here are a few things you should consider: Burial…
6 of the Longest-Lasting Flower Choices for Graves
When visiting the gravesite of a loved one, many people feel comforted by bringing a gift to leave behind. This typically takes the form of flowers, bouquets, and wreaths. Not only are flowers a beautiful decoration, but they also have powerful symbolic meanings that can help us feel more connected to the ones we have lost. That being said, flowers have one major downside, and that is their longevity. After being cut, a flower will slowly wilt, with some flowers lasting only a couple of hours. If you are looking to honor a deceased loved one, here are 6 beautiful…