Blog | R. Barany Monuments, Inc.

How a Grave Marker Company Creates a Lasting Tribute to Your Loved One

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 19:00:25 GMT

The passing of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, yet finding a meaningful way to commemorate their life can offer comfort and peace of mind. Families often reach out to a grave marker company to have them play an important part in creating a lasting tribute to honor the departed's memory with dignity and grace. They offer families a tangible way to express love, preserve legacies, and ensure remembrance for generations to come.

Personalization Options

One of the most important aspects of designing a grave marker is personalization. A Grave marker company will work closely with families to capture the unique essence of the departed. This can include etchings of a favorite quote, an image that represents their passion, or symbols of religious significance. By incorporating these elements, each grave marker becomes a deeply personal tribute, reflecting individuality and preserving the beloved's story.

Attention to Detail

Quality craftsmanship is essential in ensuring the durability and appeal of a grave marker. This is where the meticulous attention to detail from grave marker companies shines through. From selecting premium stone materials such as granite and marble, to employing skilled artisans to carve and engrave, each component is carefully chosen to withstand the test of time. This dedication to quality not only reflects their respect for the deceased but also serves as a source of comfort to families, knowing that their loved one's resting place is beautifully maintained.

Alternative Tribute Options

As environmental consciousness grows, many grave marker companies are exploring sustainable practices. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, 68% of people would be interested in exploring "green" funeral options because of their potential environmental benefits, cost savings or for some other reason. In response, innovative solutions such as biodegradable markers and eco-friendly materials are being offered. These alternatives not only honor the deceased but also align with the values of those who wish to reduce their environmental footprint, providing a meaningful and environmentally conscious legacy.

Working with a grave marker company is a great way for your family to create a respectful and lasting tribute for your loved one. Through personalized designs, superior craftsmanship, and a commitment to sustainability, they provide a source of solace during times of grief. For more information about these custom tributes, please reach out to R. Barany Monuments, Inc. Since 2012, we've helped families memorialize their loved ones with custom grave markers and monuments.

Why Standard Headstone Dimensions Matter When Designing Your Custom Memorial

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 14:18:53 GMT

In designing a custom monument, understanding the role of standard headstone dimensions is crucial. This article explores frequently asked questions about headstone sizing and why adhering to standard dimensions can affect the entire design process. Having this knowledge in advance can save families time, reduce stress, and ensure their loved one’s memorial is created with dignity and precision.

Defining Headstone Design

The standard dimensions for headstones can vary depending on the cemetery and locality. Generally, cemeteries have their own regulations that must be followed to ensure consistency across memorials. Knowing these dimensions helps in conforming to these overarching guidelines. According to the National Cemetery Administration under the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, the typical upright granite and marble headstones should be 42 inches long, 13 inches wide, and 4 inches thick. This specific sizing ensures uniformity and predictability for those designing custom memorials.

Enforcing Standards of Uniformity

Cemeteries often enforce standard headstone dimensions for reasons ranging from aesthetic considerations to practical concerns. Uniformity in size facilitates a sense of order and tranquility within the cemetery, contributing to a respectful and serene environment. When every memorial adheres to specific measures, it complements the surrounding landscape, presenting a harmonious appearance to visitors. This creates a setting that is not only visually pleasing but also uplifting and reverent.

Deviating Creates Design Challenges

Exploring custom headstone designs can be exciting, but deviating from standard dimensions can present unique challenges. Regulatory non-compliance is one of the primary issues that can arise from such decisions, potentially resulting in delays or additional costs. Shaping a headstone that doesn't meet standard dimensions can complicate approval processes with the cemetery, requiring more paperwork and negotiations. It can also impact the structural integrity of the memorial, as deviations from the norm might need special engineering considerations.

Understanding why standard headstone dimensions are important can significantly aid in the custom memorial design process. By adhering to these guidelines and considering common inquiries, you can ensure the creation of a respectful and harmonious tribute. Recognizing the balance between creativity and compliance will lead to a dignified outcome that honors the memory of your loved ones while also meeting practical requirements. Thus, the role of standard dimensions extends beyond mere regulation; it's an essential part of crafting memorable and respectful tributes. Reach out to R. Barany Monuments Inc. to learn more about custom monuments today!

Why Family-owned Gravestone Companies are the Best Choices for Personalized Services

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 20:25:38 GMT

When it comes to commemorating a loved one, choosing a gravestone is more than a transaction—it’s a deeply personal decision. Family-owned gravestone companies excel at providing personalized services that honor individual stories and preserve cherished memories. Unlike larger corporations that often prioritize volume over connection, these companies focus on creating lasting tributes that reflect the unique life of each person. With their commitment to quality, attention to detail, and deep community ties, family-owned businesses offer a level of care and craftsmanship that truly sets them apart.

Provides Personalized Services and Community Understanding

One of the most significant advantages of family-owned gravestone companies is their ability to offer highly personalized service. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, 89.2% of U.S. funeral homes are family-owned, highlighting the enduring importance of personal connections in memorial services. These businesses take the time to meet with families, listen to their stories, and understand their vision, ensuring that each gravestone reflects both the personality and values of the individual it honors. Their strong community presence allows them to consider cultural, religious, and personal preferences in every aspect of the design, providing a truly tailored experience that larger companies often cannot match.

Emphasizes Craftsmanship and Lasting Quality

Generational knowledge and pride in workmanship are hallmarks of family-owned gravestone companies. Many of these businesses have been passed down through multiple generations, refining techniques and mastering materials over decades. This expertise allows them to craft gravestones that are not only visually striking but also durable enough to stand the test of time. Each piece is treated as more than a product—it’s a legacy, reflecting the care and dedication that only family-owned companies can consistently provide.

Builds Strong Relationships Through Empathy and Care

Beyond quality and design, the true distinction of family-owned gravestone companies lies in their relational approach. They invest time in understanding the family’s needs, providing thoughtful guidance on design choices that resonate with memories, traditions, and personal significance. This empathetic approach ensures that the memorial created is a meaningful representation of a loved one’s life, transforming a gravestone into a heartfelt tribute that families can cherish forever.

Family-owned gravestone companies combine personalized service, expert craftsmanship, and genuine care to create enduring memorials. For families seeking a gravestone that truly honors a loved one, R. Barany Monuments, Inc. is committed to delivering meaningful tributes that reflect both memory and legacy.

3 Reasons to Work With a Custom Gravestone Company

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 15:13:00 GMT

When honoring the life and legacy of a loved one, every detail matters. A gravestone is a lasting tribute, and choosing the right one is an important decision. While there are many options available on the market, working with a custom gravestone company offers unique benefits that stand out. These companies provide personalized, meaningful designs that are tailored specifically to reflect the individual being memorialized. Here are three compelling reasons to consider their services.

1. Provide Personalization

First and foremost, custom gravestone companies provide a level of personalization that mass-produced options simply cannot match. By collaborating with designers, families can incorporate personal elements such as symbols, quotes, and designs that resonate with their loved one's life. This bespoke approach ensures that the gravestone is a true reflection of the individual, serving as a unique commemorative piece. The customized design process allows for creativity and contributes to a more meaningful memorial.

2. Ensure Quality and Craftsmanship

Another advantage of choosing a custom gravestone company is the quality of craftsmanship and materials. These companies often use superior materials such as granite and marble, which stand the test of time and weather conditions while maintaining their appearance. The artisans are skilled in creating intricately designed gravestones that not only last for generations but also uphold a sense of dignity and honor. This assurance of quality is especially important considering that, according to the National Funeral Directors Association, the average cost of a funeral is $7,848; investing in a gravestone that honors this expense makes good financial sense.

3. Offer Support and Guidance

Furthermore, custom gravestone companies offer compassionate support and guidance throughout the selection and design process. Losing a loved one is an emotionally challenging time, and having experts to guide you can be deeply reassuring. These professionals are experienced in handling sensitive situations and can help ease the burden by providing expertise and understanding, ensuring the process is as smooth as possible. Their goal is to help families create a tribute that genuinely honors their loved one's memory.

Working with a custom gravestone company is a worthwhile choice for families seeking to create an enduring and personalized tribute to their loved ones. From personalized designs and superior craftsmanship to compassionate support, these companies provide invaluable services that make a difficult time a bit more manageable. Selecting a custom gravestone ensures a fitting and heartfelt homage that will be cherished for generations. For a custom gravestone for your loved one, contact R Barany Monuments Inc today.

Why Partnering With a Local Gravestone Company Matters

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 15:45:05 GMT

Selecting a gravestone is a deeply meaningful decision. This choice involves more than simply picking a piece of stone; it’s about creating a lasting tribute that reflects the life, personality, and legacy of a loved one. A reputable local gravestone company offers unique advantages that make this process not only easier but more heartfelt. From receiving attentive, personalized service to supporting your community, working with a local provider offers distinct benefits. Here, we’ll explore the attributes of a reputable local gravestone company and how these qualities can ease this important decision.

Personalized Service

A core attribute of a reputable local gravestone company is its commitment to personalized service. Unlike larger national chains, local providers often take the time to understand each client’s needs, helping them navigate this emotional process with care and compassion. Local companies recognize the significance of each gravestone and work closely with families to ensure that every detail, from inscriptions to design choices, reflects the unique legacy of their loved ones. This level of personal attention and dedication can bring comfort during an otherwise challenging time.

Community Commitment

Choosing a local gravestone company not only benefits your family but also strengthens the community. Local businesses are part of the community fabric, and supporting them helps keep money circulating within the local economy, maintaining family-owned establishments that may have served the community for generations. According to the National Funeral Directors Association, nearly 90% of funeral homes in the United States are family-owned, illustrating the importance of family-run businesses in this industry. By choosing a reputable local gravestone company, you contribute to the sustainability of these community-rooted businesses, fostering trust, continuity, and the growth of locally owned operations.

High-Quality Craftsmanship

A reputable local gravestone company is also known for its dedication to quality craftsmanship. Local artisans bring years of experience and expertise to their work, creating beautiful, durable monuments that will honor your loved one’s memory for generations. Skilled local artisans understand the importance of each detail, from the material selection to the artistry of engravings. Their commitment to craftsmanship means that you receive a high-quality product, and because they care deeply about the community they serve, they often go above and beyond to create a meaningful, lasting tribute.

Choosing a reputable local gravestone company provides numerous advantages, from compassionate, personalized service and quality craftsmanship to supporting the local economy. If you’re seeking a caring, experienced team to guide you through this process, consider reaching out to us at R Barany Monuments Inc. Our dedication to quality and service demonstrates the difference a reputable local gravestone company can make in creating a meaningful tribute to your loved one.

Understanding Why You Should Plan Your Headstone Early

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 12:31:02 GMT

Thinking about the end of life can be an uncomfortable topic, but it’s an essential part of planning for your future. One important yet often overlooked aspect is the planning of your headstone. Whether you're young or old, there's no fixed age or right time to start thinking about it. However, taking proactive steps in planning your headstone early can ensure that your final wishes are honored and provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.

Financial Preparedness

One primary reason to start planning your headstone sooner rather than later is financial preparedness. The average family pays between $1,000 and $3,000 for the headstone, which includes installation costs, according to Empathy. As costs can vary widely based on the material, design, and customization, planning ahead allows you to budget appropriately. Choosing the right headstone company early on can help you lock in prices and make more informed decisions.

Personalization

Another key consideration is the personalization of your headstone. By planning it yourself, you get to make decisions that reflect your personality, beliefs, and preferences. You can choose the material, design, epitaphs, and symbols that hold significance to you. This level of personalization ensures that your headstone serves as a meaningful tribute to your life, crafted exactly as you envision it. A reputable headstone company can help guide you through these choices, ensuring your vision is brought to life.

Peace of Mind

Moreover, early planning allows for discussions with your loved ones regarding your wishes. These conversations can be difficult, but they are crucial for ensuring your intentions are clearly understood and respected. Having these talks can also bring families closer together, offering an opportunity for shared memories and reflections. It removes any ambiguity and potential disagreements about what should be done, thus preserving family harmony during times of grief. Consulting with a headstone company early on can ensure all details are in place and your loved ones won’t have to make difficult decisions on your behalf.

While there's no perfect time to start planning your headstone, beginning the process sooner rather than later can offer numerous benefits. It ensures you are financially prepared, allows for personalized choices, and fosters important family discussions about your final wishes. Taking these steps honors your life and provides peace of mind and clarity for the loved ones you leave behind. Call R Barany Monuments Inc when you're ready to start planning.

3 Reasons to Contact Your Local Gravestone Company as Soon as Possible

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 15:59:33 GMT

If you've recently experienced the passing of a loved one, it can create a very difficult time for both you and your family. However, when making funeral and burial plans, being prepared can take a huge weight off your shoulders and help relieve some stress. Let's take a look at three key reasons why you should contact your local gravestone company ahead of time to ensure everything goes smoothly.

You Can Ensure Everything Is Finished on Time

When your loved one passes away, it's important to get in contact with the right people as soon as you can. Getting in touch with a gravestone company as soon as possible will help ensure everything is prepared in time for the upcoming burial. Having a headstone prepared is a comprehensive process that can't happen overnight. There are many factors to consider, including headstone material. According to Everplans, a digital storage and sharing firm, most headstones are composed of granite, bronze, or a combination of both. Due to this, you should make sure to get in touch with your headstone company and give them ample time to have everything prepared.

You Can Be Financially Prepared

Funeral services can be very expensive. When all is said and done, many people forget about the financial planning that goes into getting headstones. Therefore, you should contact your headstone company ahead of time to discuss the financial aspects of your planned headstone for your deceased loved one. You'll be able to discuss different financial options and figure out something that works the best for you and your family.

You Can Create a Connection With the Company

The sooner you contact a local headstone company, the sooner you can create a real connection with them. If you like their services, you can use them again for future burials. Having a company you and your family can trust and rely on is hard to come by. However, working with a company you've established a personal connection with can really go a long way.

When you need to prepare burial or funeral plans for a loved one, it's best to get in touch with a local gravestone company as soon as you can. They can assist and support you in this challenging time. If you're looking for a quality company that can help you, call our team at R Barany Monuments Inc today to get started.

4 Items People Are Requesting for Headstones

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 17:27:11 GMT

As you live your life, it's never too late to consider how you want your eventual passing to be handled. Whether you want cremation or a proper burial, you might be thinking about your headstone, final resting location, and the type of service you want your family to have for you. That's why headstone companies take in many requests daily. Here are four things people often request from headstone companies.

1. Cremation Resting Spot

According to NFDA's 2022 Consumer Awareness and Preferences Report, over 30% of people who want cremation want their remains buried or interred in a cemetery. Having their urn sitting in someone's home or ashes scattered at a location doesn't suit most people. In other words, even with cremation, people still want a headstone to mark their life.

2. Images

Have you seen images in headstones? An image can be a beautiful way to personalize one's memorial platform. According to the International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association, about 42% of people request adding a photo or image to their headstone. However, that photo or image isn't always of the deceased person's face. The image may also show a hobby, a symbol of their faith, or something else that represents their life.

3. Shared Headstone

If you've walked through a graveyard, you may have noticed shared headstones. It's an option used by many beloved married couples and other close family, even if they died at different times. A shared headstone is ideal when a family is buried close together and can continue to be just as close in death.

4. Granite

Granite is one of the hardest rocks on the planet, so it's the top choice for headstone material. While there are no set statistics on how many headstones are made from granite, walking through a graveyard shows the majority of them come from this material. Other materials such as sandstone, limestone, slate, iron, and bronze are also used, but not nearly at the same level as granite.

Now you know some of the requests professionals at your local headstone companies handle. From sourcing granite to adding images to creating shared headstones, people have options for a proper life send-off. If you need a quality headstone, don't hesitate to contact us at R Barany Monuments Inc today.

3 Tips to Choose a Trusted Gravestone Company

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 13:49:02 GMT

When it comes to their final wishes, people have different preferences for their bodies after they're gone. According to the NFDA's 2022 Consumer Awareness and Preferences Report, 31.7% of people wanted their cremated ashes buried or interred in a cemetery rather than being kept at home in an urn or other options like being scattered in a sentimental location or even split among relatives. But what about a resting maker like a gravestone? Some people want to be remembered that way too. Here are three ways to find a trusted gravestone company.

1. Research Their Reputation

Finding the right gravestone company has been made much easier due to the internet. When you've found a potential option, you can look at the various review sites or their Facebook pages to see what people are saying about their work. If they have a lot of positive feedback, you can feel good about working with them.

2. See How Long They Have Been Around

Another sign that a company is in good standing is if they've been around for a long time. That usually means they consistently do good work and that they have satisfied customers. They have typically mastered the art of making gravestones, so you can trust you will have high-quality results.

3. Learn How Skilled They Are

You want to see examples from them that will prove their talents. Check to see if they have a portfolio online of past work they've done. This is a very important step, as you want to be sure you're hiring a skilled company.

It's important to understand how big of a decision this is. Be sure to do thorough research before hiring a gravestone company, as it will mark a loved one's resting place for eternity. While it's undoubtedly a difficult decision, our experts are standing by to assist you in this process.

If you're looking for a reliable gravestone company , the professionals at R Barany Monuments Inc are here for you. We are proud to offer free estimates and a workmanship guarantee for all of our work. With over a decade of business, we have all the experience necessary to make a beautiful headstone. Reach out today for more information on our services.

Little-Known Facts About Headstones

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:05:08 GMT

Headstones honor and remember loved ones long after their passing. These markers provide family and friends a place to remain connected to the deceased. Did you know that, according to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, gravestones were frequently used in backyards as early as 1300 BC and weren't common in graveyards until the 1600s? Here are a few more facts about these markers.

The Name Headstone

For years, loved ones used piles of wood or rocks on graves according to Chabad. This ancient tradition was meant to prevent the dead from rising from the grave and involved placing a stone at the head of the grave, hence the name headstone.

Stones on Graves

Today, many people still use headstones, but it's not to keep the dead from rising and coming after us. Instead, the tradition of putting a stone on a grave is to let your loved ones, and others, know that a deceased person is buried there. Many people clean the stone every time they visit a grave.

Purchasing Monuments Anytime

An unexpected death and zero life insurance can financially strain loved ones. Funerals often cost thousands of dollars and don't include the cost of a gravestone. That's why many families choose to purchase one at a later date. You can have a funeral, buy a burial plot, and select a headstone when it's more financially feasible.

Having Gravestones After Cremation

More and more people are opting for cremations instead of traditional burials. According to NFDA's 2021 Cremation and Burial Report, the 2021 cremation rate reached 57.5%, while the burial rate was 36.6%. Most people think you don't get a gravestone if you're cremated, but that's not true. You can still purchase a memorial at a cemetery.

The Various Materials Available

All headstones are not created the same. Instead, various stones are available for you to choose from. Marble markers are less common and more expensive, but they instantly create a luxurious elegance that few other stones can compare to. Loved ones that want increased durability often opt for innovative quartz gravestones. You can select a product comprised of almost any stone imaginable.

Selecting a headstone doesn't have to be a complex process. We have a wide variety of products available to suit every budget. Contact us at R Barany Monuments Inc for more information today.

How to Pick the Right Headstone for Your Loved One

Wed, 17 May 2023 13:47:19 GMT

A loved one's headstone serves a huge purpose as a lasting memory and a physical marker you can visit in times of need. Over the years, headstone offerings and design choices have transformed endlessly. According to BillionGraves, cherubs were popular gravestone symbols in the mid-18th century. When it comes to choosing a headstone for your loved one, there are various options to choose from, but here are some tips to help guide you.

Set a Budget

One of the more mundane necessities for choosing headstones or memorials is to set a budget. This budget can usually be set in the last years of life. Including a headstone in end-of-life planning can be a way to bring closure for your loved one.

Choose the Style and Material

Many stylistic options are available for headstones. Religious designs can be popular but a common design through the ages is a simple stone with a curved top, according to Cake, an end-of-life planning advice agency. This ageless design offers a large amount of space to memorialize the deceased. The granite headstone is also timeless for a reason, according to Memorials.com. Simple and dignified, it honors those who have passed.

Decide on Your Inscription

A headstone inscription needs to be several things. A succinct summary of your loved one, including dates of birth and death, can be beautiful, poetic, or relatively modest. If you do not have a particular quote for the deceased, a simple 'In loving memory' is a tribute that graces many headstones.

Select Your Supplier

Finding the right supplier for headstones can sometimes be a daunting task. As you did with a cemetery, get quotes from more than one supplier and explore your options to ensure your supplier can meet your needs. Local monument dealers can offer solid pricing and typically have image galleries on their websites that allow you to get a strong sense of their quality of work.

Ask for a Draft

Once you've chosen your supplier and paid the deposit, ask for a draft for your approval and that of the rest of your family. Check the draft and if it doesn't meet approval, get another draft to fit your needs. Most headstone suppliers can provide drafts within hours using graphic design tools.

Choosing headstones can be difficult in a time of grief, but finding the right professionals to help you doesn't have to be. Contact R Barany Monuments Inc today to learn more about our headstone offerings.

Can Cremated Remains Be Buried in Cemeteries?

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:29:48 GMT

Headstone companies provide headstones and memorial options for your loved ones. Headstone companies know exactly what cemeteries require regarding headstone placement, size, and other factors. They can also answer many of your questions about cemetery rules. One question that family members often ask headstone companies is whether cremated remains can be buried in cemeteries. Let's take a look at the answer.

The Simple Answer

According to the NFDA Consumer Awareness and Preferences Report, 31.7% of people surveyed report they would prefer to have their created remains spread, shared among family members, or buried instead of kept in an urn. Many people want their ashes to be buried in a cemetery. If your loved one's final wish was to rest in a cemetery, the good news is that you can bury cremated remains in a cemetery. You will need to do a few things to bury your loved one's remains in a cemetery, but thankfully, the process is fairly straightforward. Once you are looking for headstones, feel free to give us a call.

You Have to Have a Plot

The first step in burying cremated ashes is to buy a cemetery plot. Many families buy a family plot where the entire family can be buried. Burying your loved one's ashes requires that you purchase a plot, although the size of the container has no bearing on the size of the plot. You will be charged full price for a cemetery plot as if you were buying a full-sized coffin. When you decide to look into headstones, contact our offices.

You Have to Have a Container

Special containers are used in the burial process. You will need to purchase an approved container for the burial. There are several ways you can purchase this type of container. Most funeral homes can accommodate your needs. You can also find options online. You'll want to check with the cemetery to ensure that you choose an approved container. Contact us when looking for headstone companies that can make recommendations and provide guidance.

Many cemeteries offer several options for cremated remains. Some cemeteries offer garden areas where ashes can be scattered. Reach out to us today at R Barany Monuments Inc when you are looking into headstone companies for your loved one.

Common Cemetery Regulations for Grave Markers

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:08:51 GMT

Grave markers are a time-honored tradition for memorializing a loved one. However, styles of grave markers have changed considerably over the years. According to Family Tree Magazine, people used fieldstones or rocks to mark graves before the 1650s. Today, elaborate headstones and statuary can be found in cemeteries. There are some common rules that you will find in cemeteries regarding grave markers. Here are three of them.

1. Only Certain Materials Can Be Used

Many cemeteries have rules regarding the type of material from which the marker can be made. Granite and bronze are usually the type of material that is allowed. Wood is usually not permitted because of its propensity to degrade quickly.

The cemetery may also require special edging added to the marker. Special edges are required for mowing and care purposes. There may also be a color regulation as well.

2. There Are Size Restrictions

Most cemeteries have size regulations for markers. There are two reasons why size is regulated. The first is to control uniformity in the cemetery; the second is to ensure that the marker does not encroach on another person's plot.

Most companies that create these markers know which size the cemetery requires and can create a marker of the right size. The best way to ensure that you choose the correct size is to ask the cemetery for a written policy.

3. Plot Numbers Are Usually Required

Cemeteries can be very large. Most cemeteries require that the plot number of the grave be featured somewhere on the marker. Some cemeteries will require the plot number to be located in the lower corner of the marker on a specific side.

Plot numbers are useful in helping to locate a grave and are also used by the cemetery for record keeping. It can help workers to find a grave that needs maintenance.

The rules vary from cemetery to cemetery as to what is and is not allowed on a marker. Some cemeteries are more liberal with their rules than others. Ask the cemetery for a copy of their written regulations before you connect with the company that will design and create the marker. Most companies want a copy of the regulations before they get started.

Choose the perfect marker for your loved one. We're here to help you during this difficult time. Call R. Barany Monuments, Inc. to learn more.

What Is the Difference Between a Headstone and a Gravestone?

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 11:24:16 GMT

Talking about death usually makes people uncomfortable, and no one likes to think about their own mortality. However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average life span in the United States is 78.8 years, which means death is inevitable, and end-of-life planning is part of the process. During that planning, a headstone or a gravestone may be discussed, but what's the difference between them?

What's the Difference?

The words headstone and gravestone are often used interchangeably, which can be confusing. Today, when you discuss a headstone or a gravestone, the meaning is understood to be a slab of stone often engraved with an “epitaph” to mark a grave. Typically, a stone with etchings is placed at the head of the grave, but at one point in time, these two terms had different meanings. Let's look into these meanings now.

Headstone

The term headstone was initially coined to describe the cornerstone of a building. This part of the building marked the construction date, the architect, and other information about the building. It was not until the late 1700s that this term began to be used to describe a monument at the head of a grave.

Today, the term is never used to describe the cornerstone of a building. It is always associated with cemeteries and grave markers.

Gravestone

The term gravestone is older than the term headstone in the English language and dates back to the 1400s. It has always been used to convey the description of stones associated with graves. A gravestone is a catch-all phrase that can describe everything from a proper headstone to a small grave marker.

Which Term Should I Use?

Whether "headstone" or "gravestone" is used largely depends on the local vernacular and whom you are talking to. While these terms may have had different meanings historically, today, they are both used to convey the idea that a grave is to be marked.

Gravestones, headstones, tombstones, and other grave markers are crafted by skilled artisans that are always happy to talk about your options. End-of-life planning can include making decisions about how your grave will be marked and how you can take the stress off your family. Reach out to us today to discuss your plans.

4 Types of Headstones to Choose From

Fri, 22 Apr 2022 10:48:30 GMT

When a loved one passes away, it's a very stressful time for you. If your loved one is being buried like 36.6% of people in 2021, according to The National Funeral Directors Association, you'll need to pick out a headstone for them. Picking out a headstone ahead of time from a headstone company , even with your loved one, will save you some worrying down the road. Here are four of the most popular types of headstones to choose from.

Upright Headstones

Upright headstones are exactly what they sound like, they are headstones that are upright and are the most traditional design. These headstones are composed of two parts, the base, and the die which is also known as the tablet. The tablet is an upright piece of stone that sits on top of the base and contains the person's name and information. There are many top finishes to choose from like a serpentine top, oval top, and corner rounds, so it can be personalized how you would like.

Slant Headstones

Slant headstones are similar to upright headstones with one big difference, they are vertical in the back but slanted in the front. Because of their shape, they are very sturdy and do not require a base, however, you can add a base if you would like. There are a couple of different options for slant headstones, so a headstone company will be able to show you the different options.

Flat Headstones

Flat headstones are also what the name suggests, flat headstones. These headstones can be completely flush with the ground or set a few inches above the ground. You also have the option of a bevel headstone which is slightly thinker than a flat headstone.

Bench Headstones

Bench headstones are both common grave markers as well as actual benches. This means they are sturdy enough to be sat while visiting your loved one, making them a very popular option. There are many bench options to choose from, such as a pedestal bench, park bench, arm bench, or monument bench. Visit a headstone company to pick the one you like best.

Choosing a headstone seems like a daunting task, but headstone companies are available to help you with your decision. Picking out a headstone option before your loved one passes will help make the process easier on you. Visit your local headstone company to plan and be prepared.

The Benefits of an Experienced Gravestone Company

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 15:21:32 GMT

A headstone can act as a memorial to celebrate a life. While it is meaningful to the surviving family, it also honors life for generations. Purchasing a gravestone can be stressful as you may also be in a difficult emotional state having lost a loved one. While buying a headstone from the cemetery seems natural, that may not always be the best way. According to the National Association of Funeral Directors, in 2021 in the U.S., the rate of burial was 36.6%. Consider these reasons for choosing a gravestone company .

Understands Regulations and Rules

A gravestone company will understand the rules for each cemetery and be able to explain them to you. Each cemetery has its own regulations, and a gravestone company will know if the headstone you want is allowed in the cemetery you have chosen. If not, they can find a local cemetery that allows it.

Knows Installation Fees

In addition to its own rules, each cemetery has different fees. These fees usually cover the services provided by the cemetery. The gravestone company has an understanding of the fees and what they cover. The fees can be over $1,000 in some cemeteries. They typically cover perpetual care and maintenance of the grounds. If the fees are too high, the gravestone company should be able to find a cemetery that has more affordable fees.

Be an Advocate

A gravestone company partners with you to help through the process to make it as easy as possible. This is a time when you are grieving, which often makes decisions seem that much harder. When you have an advocate, it can help the process go smoother. For example, cemeteries do not always allow any type of headstone in the cemetery. This can make families feel like they cannot have a memorial representative of the deceased. The ideal gravestone company will find the best place to meet your desires.

While it may seem easier to purchase a headstone through the cemetery, it is not always in the family's best interest. You are subjected to their rules and fees without even realizing other options are available. In addition, the cemetery may not always advocate for your needs if they fall outside of their rules. Consider contacting a gravestone company for your headstone needs.

4 Tips for Choosing Your Headstone

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 15:02:17 GMT

Choosing a headstone for a loved one who has passed away is not an easy thing to do, especially if it's your first time. There are many factors to consider. Moreover, setting the budget, selecting which epitaphs to inscribe on the headstone, and getting a reputable monument maker can be stressful and time-consuming. To help you get started, here are five tips for choosing your headstone.

1. Choose a Headstone Type

There are a handful of headstones, such as flat headstones, upright headstones, slant headstones, bench headstones, among others. Flat headstones lie flat on the ground at the grave's head. Upright headstones are the conventional type, while slant headstones appear slightly slanted. Bench headstones resemble a bench. Select a headstone type that commemorates your loved one and aligns with cemetery rules. You can choose any headstone type to bury your loved one on family property.

2. Headstone Finish

Finishing refers to the decoration you want the headstone to have. All headstone materials can be customized based on your specifications and preferences. You can ask your monument maker to do a polished, part-polished, or pitched finish to achieve the appearance you want. Ensure your finish complies with cemetery guidelines.

3. Include a Custom Inscription

Including inscriptions on your headstone makes it more personalized. Tell your monument maker which images, designs, and phrases to engrave on the headstone to commemorate your loved one. Consider adding quotes and words that summarize the life of your loved one.

4. Select a Reputable Headstone Supplier

Selecting a reputable headstone supplier is essential in choosing your headstone. The supplier should be experienced, reliable, and trustworthy. The best way to get a reputable headstone supplier is to seek referrals from friends, family, neighbors, and cemetery staff. Remember to ask about price estimates and work with an affordable supplier.

Life expectancy in the U.S. is not exceptionally high, meaning people die at a relatively younger age. According to the CDC, the average life expectancy is 78.8 years. If you, unfortunately, lose a loved one and need to choose a headstone, use these tips to guide you. Call a monument maker if you need help making these tough decisions. Don't wait, make sure you execute your plans sooner rather than later.