The holidays can be extra hard when someone you love has recently died. Choosing a headstone might seem like the last thing you want to do.

Here are some ways that the task of ordering a headstone during the holidays can be made a little less stressful.

Don’t shop on the internet. You should be aware that the markers available from online shops are not always what they seem. The granite may not be the proper grade of granite. The markers may not be the correct thickness to withstand the weight of maintenance machines, or they may not be properly engraved to last. In addition, the online company won’t set it on the grave and most cemeteries won’t either. These are the things that a local monument company needs to worry about, not you. The old adage “you get what you pay for” definitely comes to mind.

Don’t do it at the funeral home. It may seem faster and easier for you, but easier doesn’t mean better. Emotions are higher on the holiday and while it’s tempting to get it over quickly while you are already at the funeral home, you will pay significantly more for the marker by trying to make the process go faster. The person at the funeral home who is selling you the marker is not the manufacturer, or the trained designer, or guarantor. They are the middle man. You will actually save time and money by working directly with the monument company.

Don’t do it alone. If you have a person you trust to help you make decisions and help brainstorm ideas, bring them with you to the monument dealer’s showroom. If you don’t want someone with you, we understand that too. Your professional monument maker truly wants to help you. Talking about the importance of favorite colors and styles will help narrow down some decisions to be made. Discussion on hobbies, beliefs, and sayings along with all of the important details are welcome. A caring person will be there from the beginning to the end of the process with knowledge, expertise and a listening ear.

During the holidays or any time of the year, let us help create a memorial at your pace, in your budget, and in total peace. Ordering a headstone may be hard, but a caring and trusted consultant will help make it worry-free. The entire staff at Superior Monument will be with you every step of the way.