When Mary lost her father, she wanted to honor him with a beautiful headstone, something that felt as strong and timeless as the love he left behind. In her grief, she picked the first design that caught her eye. Weeks later, the calls started:
“The cemetery doesn’t allow that style.”
“Installation costs are separate.”
“Delivery will take longer than you expected.”
Mary’s heart sank. She wasn’t just buying a stone, she was creating her father’s legacy. And now, it feels rushed and complicated.
The truth? She’s not alone. Many families walk into the process without realizing what’s ahead. Here’s what Mary and so many others wish they knew before ordering a memorial headstone.
-> Cemeteries Have Rules
Mary had chosen a stunning custom headstone, only to learn the cemetery had size and material restrictions. If she had asked for the cemetery’s written guidelines first, she could’ve saved herself heartache.
-> The Stone You Choose Lasts Forever
Her first choice was marble. It looked elegant but weathered quickly. Later, she discovered granite: durable, timeless, and low-maintenance. Families often learn too late that the stone’s quality matters as much as the design.
-> Words Can’t Be Erased
Mary rushed the inscription because she felt pressured to “get it done.” Later, she realized she wished she had chosen a line of poetry her father loved. Once it’s engraved, changing it is nearly impossible.
-> Costs Add Up Quickly
The “affordable headstone” she saw online didn’t include installation or cemetery fees. What looked simple doubled in cost. Transparent pricing would have saved her from that unpleasant surprise.
-> Time Is Not on Your Side
Mary thought the headstone would be ready in a few weeks. But between design, approvals, and engraving, it took months. If she’d started earlier, she could have had it ready for her father’s birthday memorial.
The Biggest Lesson
Mary realized she didn’t have to rush. Grief made her feel like everything needed to be done immediately but waiting a little gave her the space to choose a headstone she would never regret.
At Forever in Stone, we’ve guided countless families like Mary’s. We know a headstone is not just stone, it’s memory, legacy, and love carved into something that lasts generations. Take your time. Ask the questions. Create a memorial that tells their story. Forever in Stone is here to help you do just that.
For a free consultation on designing a custom grave monument, call us at 209-480-9444. Let Forever in Stone, Inc. create a timeless tribute that preserves your loved one’s legacy.