Choosing a headstone or grave marker is one of the most important decisions families make after a loss. The right memorial should meet cemetery rules, fit your budget, and reflect your loved one with a lasting design. This guide explains the most common headstone types, materials, sizing rules, and what to look for when ordering a custom granite memorial online.
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Step 1: Confirm Cemetery Rules First

Before selecting a headstone, check with the cemetery for:

•    Allowed memorial types (flat marker, bevel, slant, upright headstone, bench)
•    Maximum size (length × width × thickness)
•    Material requirements (granite is commonly accepted; some cemeteries restrict marble)
•    Finish requirements (polished vs. matte, color restrictions)
•    Installation rules (who sets it, foundation specs, fees, scheduling)

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If you’re unsure what to ask, a quick call to the cemetery office can save days of delays.
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Step 2: Choose the Right Headstone Type

Cemeteries generally approve one or more of these common memorial styles:

Flat Grave Marker (Flat Marker / Grass Marker / Lawn-Level Marker)

•    Sits flush with the ground
•    Often the most affordable option
•    Clean, simple look
•    Common in modern cemeteries with lawn maintenance rules
 

Bevel Marker

•    Low profile, slightly raised
•    Easy to read from a standing position
•    Often allowed where upright stones are restricted
 

Slant Marker

•    Taller and angled for visibility
•    More space for wording and artwork
•    Traditional look without a full upright headstone
 

Upright Headstone (Monument / Tombstone / Gravestone)

•    Vertical memorial, highly visible
•    Most design flexibility: larger text, artwork, portraits, layouts
•    Usually requires a base and may have stricter cemetery rules
 

Memorial Bench

•    Functional seating plus tribute
•    Often used in memorial gardens or family plots
•    Excellent for longer inscriptions
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 Step 3: Pick the Best Material for Long-Term Durability

 

For outdoor cemetery memorials, granite is the most common choice because it is extremely durable, weather-resistant, and holds detail well.

Why granite is popular for cemetery headstones

•    Stands up to freeze/thaw cycles, rain, and sun
•    Keeps sharp detail for lettering and artwork
•    Available in multiple colors and finishes
•    Ideal for permanent laser etching and photo engraving on polished surfaces
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Step 4: Decide on Design Elements (Text, Art, and Photos)

A good headstone design balances readability with meaning. Common elements include:

•    Full name and dates
•    Short inscription (a phrase, verse, or message)
•    Symbols (cross, military emblem, flowers, hobbies, faith imagery)
•    Scenic artwork (trees, sunsets, lakes)
•    Photo etching for portrait-style personalization

Photo tip: Choose a clear image with good lighting and sharp focus. If you’re not sure, send what you have — we can recommend the best option.
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Step 5: Consider Size, Layout, and Readability

 

Bigger isn’t always better — it’s about legibility and balance.

•    Use a readable font style and size
•    Keep spacing comfortable (avoid overcrowding)
•    Prioritize the name and dates

•    Add artwork thoughtfully (don’t shrink text too much)

 

If you want multiple names (companion stones), decide whether you want:

•    One shared stone with two names
•    One stone now with space reserved for later
•    Two stones with matching style
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Step 6: Understand the Ordering Process When Buying Online

 

A trustworthy custom memorial seller should provide:

•    A design proof before engraving
•    A clear revision process
•    Durable materials suitable for outdoor use
•    Strong packaging for shipment
•    Straight answers on timelines and cemetery compliance
At MemorialsDirect.net (a division of Bolt Laserworks), every memorial is custom designed from scratch and never etched until the proof is approved.
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Step 7: Plan Your Timeline

 

If a service date or installation deadline is approaching, plan for:

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•    Design + proof approval
•    Production time
•    Shipping time
•    Cemetery scheduling / installation

Rush options are often possible if you start early and respond quickly to the design proof.
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Step 8: Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Headstone

Use this checklist:

•    Does the cemetery allow this style and size?
•    What thickness is required?
•    Who handles installation and foundation?
•    Will I receive a proof before engraving?
•    Is photo etching available (if desired)?
•    What is the production timeline after approval?
•    How is the memorial packaged and shipped?
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Ready to Start a Custom Headstone or Grave Marker?

 

Buying a memorial direct should feel personal, clear, and reassuring. If you know your cemetery rules (or want help interpreting them), you can start your custom order online and we’ll guide you through the design proof step-by-step.
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