Finding the Right Way to Remember

When the time comes to select a permanent memorial for a loved one, the options available can sometimes feel overwhelming. It is important to remember that the memorial you choose is a lasting tribute, a physical representation of a life lived, and a place where family and friends can visit and reflect. Choosing the perfect memorial involves understanding the different types available, considering your loved one’s personality, and adhering to cemetery regulations. This guide is designed to clarify your choices and help you make a decision that feels right for your family.

Understanding the Main Types of Memorials

The memorial industry offers a beautiful variety of forms, each with its own characteristics and placement requirements. The most common styles of stone memorials fall into two main categories: upright monuments and flat markers.

Upright Monuments and Headstones

Upright monuments are perhaps the most traditional and recognizable form of memorial. These markers stand vertically on a foundation, making them highly visible and allowing for extensive personalization.

• Distinct Visibility: An upright headstone is easily seen from a distance, serving as a prominent landmark.
• Customization Potential: The height and surface area allow for detailed engraving, deep-cut lettering, and complex designs, including scenic elements, portraits, or religious symbols.
• Style Versatility: Upright monuments come in many shapes, such as traditional serptops, contemporary angles, or custom, sculpted designs.

Flat Markers and Slants

For those preferring a more subdued or landscape-integrated tribute, flat markers are an excellent alternative. These granite or bronze plaques are set flush with the ground.

• Cemetery Preference: Many modern cemeteries or specific sections of older cemeteries may require only flat markers to maintain an open field appearance.
• Durability and Maintenance: Being flush with the ground, they are incredibly sturdy and often require less direct upkeep than their upright counterparts.
• Slant Markers: A variation is the slant marker, which has a face that slopes gently toward the ground. This provides a balance between the flatness of a marker and the visibility of an upright stone.

Considering Personalization and Material

Once you have narrowed down the style, the next steps involve selecting the material and the personal elements. Granite is by far the most popular material for memorials due to its incredible durability, ability to withstand harsh weather, and the wide range of colors available, from classic grays and blacks to vibrant reds and blues.

*Furthermore, the color choice can significantly influence the design’s mood. A dark black granite allows for beautiful contrast when deeply engraved, while a lighter color can highlight the natural stone grain.

When it comes to inscriptions, less is often more. Think about a meaningful quote, a role (e.g., “Beloved Father and Grandfather”), or a simple symbol that captured their essence. In addition to the names and dates, many families incorporate symbols like doves, crosses, anchors, or emblems of their service or hobbies. Our design team at TN Memorials can show you examples and help you draft an inscription that truly honors your loved one’s memory.

Navigating Cemetery Regulations

Consequently, before finalizing any selection, it is absolutely critical to check with the specific cemetery where the memorial will be placed. Cemetery rules are not standard; they vary widely and can dictate everything from the marker’s size and height to the acceptable material and installation requirements.

• Size Limitations: Some cemeteries enforce strict maximum dimensions for both flat and upright stones.
• Foundation Requirements: Many require a specific type of foundation or only allow professional, approved memorialists to perform the installation.

Understanding these regulations upfront will prevent costly errors and delays. We pride ourselves on our deep familiarity with local Tennessee cemetery rules and can assist you in verifying compliance, making the process smoother and stress-free.

Making a Lasting Decision

Choosing a memorial is a deeply personal process that often combines grief, memory, and hope. Take your time, involve the family, and know that the best choice is the one that provides your loved ones with a comforting, beautiful place to remember. Ultimately, the memorial is not just a stone; it is a permanent piece of history. We are here to guide you through every choice, ensuring the final tribute is as unique and special as the life it celebrates. Contact us today!