Buying a headstone, either for yourself or a loved one, is a highly personal and emotional experience that can pave the way for mistakes to be made. This is why it’s important to do your research beforehand to understand what to expect throughout the process and what you should be looking out for so you get the results you want. Here are four design mistakes to avoid when buying a headstone that others frequently make.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size
Headstones come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. This level of freedom is a major benefit for many. But for others, the sheer number of choices can often lead to people becoming overwhelmed and getting one that doesn’t quite work out with their creative vision. Make sure that you look at all of your choices and figure out which one will be able to realistically fit everything that you want to put on your headstone. You don’t want to run out of space or end up with a headstone that has too much empty space.
2. Rushing the Creative Process
If you’re in a situation where you are trying to get through the process as quickly as possible for whatever reason, you may agree to certain design choices for your custom headstone that you don’t actually want. Another common issue that people face when rushing a headstone is choosing an inscription that isn’t bespoke and isn’t what they want when it’s finally in the ground. It’s crucial that you take your time as you navigate the design process so that the final result is everything you pictured it would be. The more detail you offer and the more time you take, the easier it is for the designer to deliver.
3. Selecting the Wrong Material
Headstones aren’t just made from one material. Some of the materials that you may come across include granite, marble, and sandstone, just to name a few. While it’s easy to assume that the material doesn’t matter, it does have a substantial impact on the look of your headstone over time. Going with the last material example, sandstone can make for an affordable and good-looking headstone, but it can also start to look less stately with gradual wear and tear. Do your research into headstone materials and ask for professional insights if you need further guidance.
4. Figuring Out What You Want Then Immediately Going Over Budget
Planning your headstone design out and then figuring out if it fits into your budget is a recipe for disaster. Always plan your budget first then determine what size headstone, what materials, and what level of customization you can afford. This will ensure you’re on track when it comes time to get your headstone.
Beautiful headstones mark the resting places of those who came before us, and you want to make sure that you and your loved ones have equally stunning headstones. Use the advice above to plan ahead accordingly and ensure that the finished headstone looks exactly like you pictured it in your head.