Monumental Masonry
A Lasting Memorial to Someone Special
Choosing a memorial is a very personal decision. We're here to help you find something that feels right.
A memorial gives family and friends somewhere to visit, remember and feel close to someone they've lost. Whether you're thinking about a new headstone, a smaller memorial or some work to an existing stone, we can help you explore the options.
At Memories Funeral Service, we work alongside Memories Memorials and experienced memorial masons to help families arrange beautiful, lasting memorials.
You don't need to know exactly what you're looking for. We're happy to talk through your ideas, explain what's possible and help with the arrangements.
There is no need to rush. Choosing a memorial can be done in your own time, whether the funeral was recent or took place many years ago.
How We Can Help
More Than Simply Choosing a Headstone
Every memorial is different, just as every person is different. We can help with the practical arrangements as well as the smaller personal details that make a memorial special.
New Memorials
From traditional headstones to more contemporary designs, we'll help you explore suitable memorials for a grave or cremation plot.
We can discuss the design, type of stone, lettering and finishing touches, as well as what's permitted at the cemetery.
Additional Inscriptions
If you're adding a loved one's name to an existing family memorial, we can help arrange further lettering.
We'll look at the existing inscription and discuss how the new wording can sit naturally alongside it.
Cleaning & Restoration
Over time, memorials can become weathered, discoloured or damaged.
We can put you in touch with experienced masons to assess the memorial and advise on suitable cleaning, repair or restoration work.
Choosing a Memorial
Something That Reflects the Person You Remember
Some families already know the kind of memorial they want. Others aren't sure where to begin. Either is absolutely fine.
There are many different designs, materials and finishes to consider, from simple, understated headstones to more individual memorials.
A memorial might include a favourite saying, a meaningful symbol or a particular style of lettering. Sometimes it is the smallest detail that makes it personal.
We'll take the time to listen to your ideas and help you understand the choices available.
We can help you explore both traditional and contemporary memorial designs, subject to the regulations of the cemetery or burial ground.
The Personal Details
It's Often the Little Things That Matter
A memorial doesn't need to be elaborate to be meaningful. What matters is that it feels like a fitting tribute to the person it remembers.
Inscriptions & Wording
Choosing the words for a memorial can be difficult. We can help you think about names, dates, personal messages and meaningful phrases that say what you want them to say.
Designs & Finishes
From simple polished granite to traditional designs, there are different styles, shapes and finishes to consider, subject to cemetery regulations.
Cremation Memorials
Smaller memorial stones and markers can provide a lasting place of remembrance for someone whose ashes are interred in a cremation plot.
Existing Family Graves
If you already have a family memorial, we can help explore additions or suitable improvements, while preserving its existing character where possible.
Practical Guidance
We'll Help With the Arrangements
Arranging a memorial can involve more than choosing a design. Cemeteries and burial grounds have their own regulations about the types of memorials that can be installed.
There may also be permissions, paperwork and practical matters to consider before any work can begin.
We can help guide you through these arrangements, working with the memorial mason and relevant cemetery authority.
Local Knowledge Makes a Difference
We have experience of working with local cemeteries and understand that requirements can differ from one location to another.
Whether you're arranging a new memorial or considering alterations to an existing one, we'll help establish what can be done.
You can speak to us in plain English, and we'll help you work through the next steps.
Looking After Existing Memorials
Giving an Older Memorial the Care It Deserves
A memorial may have been in place for many years. Weather, age and general wear can gradually affect its appearance.
Sometimes the lettering has become difficult to read, the stone needs attention, or the family simply wants to have it professionally cleaned.
We can help arrange an assessment and put you in touch with experienced memorial masons who can advise on the work needed.
If you have a photograph of the memorial, that's often a helpful starting point for a conversation.
Already Have a Memorial?
You don't need to be arranging a funeral with us to ask for help with an existing memorial.
Whether it's a family headstone that needs attention or a memorial that requires a new inscription, please get in touch.
We'll discuss what you have in mind and help you find the appropriate next step.
Getting Started
Simply Get in Touch
There's no complicated process to begin with. Just tell us a little about what you're looking for, and we'll take it from there.
Contact Us
Give us a call or send us an email. Tell us whether you're looking for a new memorial, an additional inscription or work to an existing stone.
We'll Discuss the Options
We'll talk through your ideas, find out where the memorial is or will be located and help establish what might be suitable.
We'll Help Arrange It
We'll help you take the next steps with the memorial mason, including discussing designs, necessary permissions and a quotation for the work.
Common Questions
A Few Things You Might Be Wondering
Do we need to choose a memorial straight away?
No. There is no need to make a decision while you're arranging the funeral. Many families prefer to think about a memorial afterwards, when they have had time to consider what they want.
Cemetery rules and ground conditions may also affect when a memorial can be installed.
Can you help with an existing headstone?
Yes. We can help with enquiries about additional inscriptions, cleaning, restoration and repairs to existing memorials.
The mason can assess what work is appropriate for the condition of the memorial.
Can we choose our own wording and design?
Yes. Personalisation is an important part of choosing a memorial. We can help explore wording, lettering, materials and different design ideas.
The final design will need to meet any requirements of the cemetery or burial ground.
Do cemeteries have restrictions on memorials?
Yes. Different cemeteries can have different rules governing the size, type, material and installation of memorials.
We'll help you establish what is permitted before any design is finalised.
Can you give us a quotation?
Of course. The cost will depend on the type of memorial, the design and the work involved.
Once we understand what you're looking for, we can help arrange a quotation so you know what to expect.
Do we need to have used Memories for the funeral?
No. You're welcome to contact us about memorial masonry even if the funeral was arranged elsewhere or took place some time ago.
We're Here to Help
Let Us Help You Arrange Something Special
Whether you have a clear idea of the memorial you would like, or you're simply looking for some guidance, we're happy to help.
Contact our team at Memories Funeral Service and we'll talk through your requirements and help you with the arrangements.
Or email info@memoriesfuneralservice.com