Customization Options For Flat Memorial Headstones

Some cemeteries have restrictions that limit you to selecting flat memorial headstones for your family plot. If you are planning a funeral and burial for a loved one and need to select one of these types of grave markers, you may be concerned about making it look unique. Fortunately, there are several options you can use to customize a flat memorial grave marker and make it a touching tribute to your loved one. Here are just a few options to consider.

Built-In Flower Vases

Built-in flower vases give you a way to decorate the headstone throughout the year. They can range from small openings in the headstone that can hold a bouquet of flowers to larger urn-style vases that add beauty to the headstone even without flowers. Be sure to ask the cemetery which types of vases you can use before you order the headstone, as this will help to ensure you get the right memorial for your loved one.

Custom Images

You can customize your loved one's flat memorial headstone with a custom image. This might be an etched portrait of your relative, or it could be an image of something he or she loved. For example, if your loved one had a beloved pet, you may want to consider adding an image of the pet to the headstone. This is also an excellent idea if you will be having the pet's ashes interred with your loved one at some point. Other ideas might include an image that represents your relative's career or favorite hobby.

Military Service Medallions

Honoring your loved one's military service is a touching way to pay tribute to him or her. You can work with the cemetery or your funeral director to get a military service medallion that fits the cemetery's requirements while also properly representing his or her branch of service. These medallions typically sit next to the headstone on the ground. If medallions aren't permitted at the cemetery, consider adding an engraving to the headstone itself

Shared Headstone

While flat headstones don't always have an impressive look, a shared headstone can provide a more grand appearance for your loved ones who have passed away. You can have a family headstone that spans the width of several burial plots, which can be used for the parents and children in a family. This is ideal if your loved one's children are planning on being buried with their parents at some point. Couple's flat headstones are a good option for a husband and wife who wish to be buried beside each other. The longer headstones offer more options for customization, as there is more room to have images, poems or quotes engraved on the surface.

If you aren't sure what the cemetery allows, arrange an appointment with a representative like Maurice Moore Memorials to discuss your options. With just a bit of research, you can be sure to create a memorial headstone that is unique, and one that honors your loved one's memory.