How To Choose A Custom Memorial: 5 Things To Consider

Creating a custom memorial for a loved one is a significant act of remembrance and respect; these bespoke tributes honour individuality and memory, capturing the essence of their unique life story. 

But, navigating these decisions during a time of loss can often come with its own set of challenges. At H&S Memorial Studio, we understand that this process, although daunting, is a crucial step in commemorating those who have passed. 

That’s why, for 95 years, our family business has served other families in Hamilton and Ontario to create deeply personal and meaningful tributes to honour the memory of their loved ones.

From considering options such as the headstone material, shape, inscription and colour, in this blog we share with you our practical and compassionate expertise to guide you through the process of choosing a custom memorial.

Should you have any questions or wish to speak to us directly, our helpful team is on hand. Simply visit our contact page for all the details you need.

1. Tell their story

Creating a custom memorial offers an opportunity to reflect the individuality of your loved one. As part of our process at H&S, our design team works closely with you to ensure every detail captures the essence of your loved one’s personality and life story, creating a deeply personal tribute that is as unique as they were.

At H&S, we specialise in detailed, personal designs that can include anything from intricate laser etchings of meaningful symbols to hand-carved inscriptions of favourite quotes. We recommend this collaborative approach to the design process so that your memorial is truly personal and meaningful.

2. Select the right material

When choosing which material to use for your memorial, we recommend that you consider not only how it looks, but also how it will withstand the environmental conditions of where it will be mounted.

Granite is a popular choice for its durability and timeless beauty. However, if you’re considering alternatives like marble or bronze, it’s essential to understand how to properly protect and maintain these materials. Marble, for example, is more porous and is better suited for sheltered memorials. Additionally, keep in mind that certain locations or cemeteries may have specific regulations regarding the materials allowed. In Ontario, for instance, most cemeteries do not permit marble or limestone. So, make sure to confirm any material restrictions before placing your order.

At H&S Memorial Studio, we specialise in crafting memorials using high-quality granite supplied by our sister company, HGH Granite, which is also based in Dundas, Ontario. This close relationship ensures a consistent supply of premium granite, ideal for durable and lasting memorials.

3. Think about scale and proportions

Deciding on the size and scale of a memorial is a deeply personal process, where the final design should resonate with both the environment and the essence of the person it commemorates. 

We recommend you start by thinking about the space where the memorial will be placed: a large, stately monument may be fitting for a spacious cemetery with expansive plots, while a smaller, more discreet marker could be perfect for a serene garden or a crowded memorial park.

It’s about finding that perfect balance where the memorial stands out as a dignified tribute without overshadowing the natural beauty of its surroundings. Always check with your cemetery about any specific guidelines they might have regarding size and design to ensure the memorial fits within their regulations. 

Our goal is to create a space that feels harmonious and respectful, a fitting addition to the landscape that offers a peaceful spot for reflection.

4. Consider future maintenance

When designing a custom memorial, it’s important to think about the maintenance requirements of the materials used. This decision involves balancing the desired look with the practical aspects of upkeep and longevity.

Granite, with its robust properties, is very easy to maintain, making it a popular choice for many families. Whereas marble and limestone, while elegant, require more care to preserve their fine details and colour against weather conditions. However, here again, keep in mind any material restrictions. If in Ontario, note that marble and limestone are not used.

Choosing the right craftsmen to create your laser-etched memorial is a crucial factor in its longevity. At H&S Memorial Studio, our artisans bring decades of experience and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each memorial we create remains a vivid and enduring tribute for future generations. Our expertise and skill with the laser etching process allows us to craft designs that capture photographs and illustrations with precision and intricate details, allowing for a personalised touch that beautifully honours the memory of your loved one. 

Here is our general maintenance advice for the most popular memorial materials:

• Granite: Requires little maintenance; occasional cleaning to maintain appearance.
• Marble: Needs regular cleaning and periodic sealing to prevent staining and weathering.
• Bronze: Is typically used for flat markers or accents on larger granite memorials. It requires polishing to maintain its sheen and prevent patina from obscuring details.
• Limestone: Similar to marble, it needs frequent cleaning and protective sealing against elements.

At H&S, our expert and friendly team is committed to helping you find the perfect memorial that respects your needs and honours your loved one’s memory, ensuring it remains a dignified tribute for years to come.

5. Choose expert artisans

Working with skilled craftsmen in memorial creation is an important step, not just for choosing quality materials, but also for ensuring that the memorial is crafted and engraved with precision and pride.

Experienced artisans can help you design a tribute that perfectly captures the essence of your loved one, creating a beautiful and enduring legacy that will stand for generations.

At H&S Memorial Studio, our experts will guide you seamlessly through the entire process of creating a custom memorial, from the initial consultation through to design and installation.

With more than 95 years of experience in memorial creation, we are committed to ensuring every detail is managed with the utmost care and sensitivity. For complete peace of mind, we also offer memorial maintenance and restoration services.

Our rich history as a family-run business serving Hamilton for five generations underpins our commitment to quality and compassionate care. We take immense pride in our craftsmanship and the personal attention we provide, ensuring that each memorial is a fitting tribute to a cherished life.

If you’re considering a custom memorial and need expert guidance, contact H&S Memorial Studio for a free, no-obligation consultation. 

Our dedicated team is ready to help you design and craft a memorial that honours the legacy of your loved one with care, expertise, and respect. 

Contact us for a personal consultation and begin the journey of creating a lasting tribute today.