I've never had to do this before, where do I start?
Check with your cemetery to find out if they have any specifications regarding the type of memorial to be used. Some cemeteries will only allow bronze on granite bases, some allow only flat granite markers, or a cemetery may have granite color or finish requirements.
Once you know what you need, our site offers an extensive display of products and product information to help you create a special memorial for your loved one.
How do I place a order and make payment?
These days, most everything can be done via telecommunications. Orders can be placed over the phone, email, fax or even via snail mail.
We will send you an order form, or you can use our order form online. A deposit of 50% is taken at the time of order.
A proof sheet is sent to you to confirm the correct inscription and layout. You should look this over and ok it, or make corrections via email.
We also submit an acceptance form to the cemetery which details the memorial type, size and finish. This is to insure that the memorial will meet the cemetery regulations. The cemetery agrees to accept the memorial in the stated type, size and finish. They are asked to sign and print their name and title on the lines provided.
At this time, we will also inquire if the cemetery has any additional setting or foundation fees; if so, we will forward this information to you.
When the proof sheet is approved and the cemetery acceptance form is returned, the memorial is made. The balance is paid in full when the memorial is ready to ship. We accept Visa, Master Card, Discover, personal checks (checks take 3 weeks to clear) and money orders.
How long does it take to manufacture and ship the memorial for my loved one?
Once the proof sheet from you and the acceptance form from the cemetery is returned to us, your memorial will be at the cemetery within 4 to 8 weeks. The confirmation process may delay your order slightly, but because this process can be done via fax or email, the delay is usually minimal and is for your protection.
Please note that memorials made from imported granites may take longer to produce due to increased homeland security measures.
Is it hard for an out of state monument dealer to get approval to sell a memorial in my state?
In the past, we have had very few problems with the cemeteries. Most cemeteries who also sell memorials actually use the same suppliers that we do. On bronze, we use the same foundry that the cemetery does. With granite, the manufacturer of the cemeteries stones buy their granite from the same quarries that we do.
Under federal restraint of trade law it is illegal for a cemetery to refuse a headstone/grave marker from an outside monument dealer, as long as the memorial meets the cemetery requirements. Please see our Consumer Resources for more information.
How is the date of passing or second inscription added to pre-need or companion markers?
On bronze markers, the dates of passing and second inscription scrolls are attached with screws. We keep records of all markers we sell. We can match all needed dates and inscriptions for over the last forty years.
Granite markers are most often inscribed at the cemetery by monument lettering companies. These companies are sub-contractors used by cemeteries and monument dealers. Look in your phone book under "Monuments". The lettering companies tend to be cheaper than the cemetery, who can also add the lettering.
Can I order a marker/headstone for a loved one even if I don't live in the state they are buried in?
Yes, you can and many people commonly do. It will save you much time and effort.
How long should I wait to put up a memorial for a friend or loved one?
The grieving process differs from person to person. Putting up a memorial is a form of closure. It is one of the last things you can do for your departed loved one. There are many choices to make regarding the design and inscription, so you should be ready emotionally. Don't let anyone pressure you into buying before you're ready.
Is the cemetery responsible for my memorial if we get it from you?
If your memorial is damaged during shipment or production, it will be replaced at no cost to you. Once the memorial arrives at the cemetery, the cemetery is responsible for damage from negligence, lawn mowers or the grave opening process.
Also, a little know fact is that in most states, your homeowners policy covers your memorial under the personal property provision. It would be similar to damage incurred to your kid's laptop while he has it away at school.
We are happy to refund or replace an item that has been damaged in shipping, but please be sure to choose wisely. Refunds are not normally available for memorial products unless they came in damaged.
