Burial is an action of interring a dead body. Proper burial of the deceased is very important as it ensures they rest in peace. There are numerous reputable companies you can approach for burials and grave monuments. The demand for bespoke grave monuments has enhanced drastically in the last few years as you don’t have to face any limitations when determining its shape or size. Instead of choosing any random structure, choose one that will reflect the personality and likings of the deceased. You can rest assured of creating the best-designed gravestone if you consider a few vital points when designing it.
Vital Points To Consider When Designing Grave Monuments For Burials
Fonts
One of the most vital things you should consider is the inscription font. The one you choose will influence the entire design. While some people like traditional fonts like Script-Like, Old English or Roman, others opt for unique fonts. You can ask the stonemason for some recommendations. They will also let you know whether the font you choose will suit the material in which the inscription will be done.
Images
You can include images in the grave monuments in various innovative ways. While some prefer getting in touch with a company creating pictures or designs with the latest laser technology, others prefer the traditional hand-carved designs. Irrespective of the design you choose, all of them are pretty beautiful. Make sure that the image you select reflects the deceased’s beliefs, personality and lifestyle.
Colouring
There is no rule regarding the type of colour you can choose for the gravestone. Grave monuments are available in different colours. The popular colours are black, red, blue, grey, and white. Most cemeteries offering burials in Aberdeen have no strict colour guidelines. Some even consider the finish and colour of the grave monuments before assigning a burial plot. If you want to bury the deceased in the churchyard, talk with the local parish, and they will share the ideal finish and colour guidelines.
Material Selection for Durability and Appearance
When choosing a grave monument, the type of material plays a major role in its durability and overall look. Popular options include granite, marble, sandstone, and bronze. Granite is often preferred for its strength and resistance to weathering, while marble offers a more classic, elegant appearance but requires more maintenance. Bronze can give a timeless finish and is easy to clean. Your choice should balance visual appeal with practicality, especially considering Aberdeen’s changing climate. A reputable stonemason can advise you on the best materials for long-term preservation, helping you select one that will stay beautiful for decades. Durability ensures that the monument continues to honour your loved one without the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Shape and Style of the Monument
Grave monuments come in many shapes and styles, from upright headstones and flat markers to intricate sculptures and custom-cut designs. The shape you choose should complement the personality of the deceased and the setting of the burial site. Some families opt for traditional rectangular stones, while others prefer unique designs such as hearts, crosses, or curved tops. If you’re placing the monument in a cemetery, check if they have restrictions on height, width, or style. A skilled monument maker can guide you in designing something distinctive while still meeting these requirements. The right shape will create a striking yet respectful tribute that reflects the life being remembered.
Engraving and Personalisation Options
Beyond fonts and images, there are many ways to personalise a grave monument. You can include meaningful quotes, poems, or religious texts that held significance for your loved one. Some families choose to engrave birth and death dates alongside personal achievements, while others incorporate family crests or symbolic patterns. Advances in laser etching allow for highly detailed designs, including portraits or landscape scenes. Discussing your ideas with the monument maker will ensure the design is both beautiful and long-lasting. Personalisation transforms a gravestone from a simple marker into a heartfelt memorial, ensuring future generations understand and appreciate the legacy of the person it honours.
Placement and Installation Considerations
Before finalising your design, think about how and where the monument will be installed. Certain cemeteries in Aberdeen may have regulations about the size, weight, or positioning of grave markers. The ground conditions can also influence installation, as heavier monuments require stable foundations to prevent tilting over time. Discuss installation details with both your monument maker and the cemetery management to ensure everything is handled correctly. Proper placement not only enhances the visual impact of the monument but also ensures it remains secure and upright for many years. Attention to these details will give you peace of mind that your tribute will stand the test of time.
This being said, it’s time you consider the points stated above and get in touch with the experts at Victoria Funeral Home. They will help you design suitable grave monuments for burials.