From Sketch to Stone – The Process of Designing a Custom Memorial

Creating a custom memorial is both an art and a serious responsibility. It requires an extremely thoughtful process, as we transform memories into something lasting with care, respect and skilled craftsmanship. At Globe Memorial, we work closely with each family to design a tribute that truly reflects individuality, honour beliefs, and preserves legacy in every detail.

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences. A memorial can bring comfort by keeping their presence and the memories you shared close. That’s why this is such a personal journey.

While there are countless ways to memorialise someone, and each holds its own meaning, many families lean toward a custom design because it allows them to reflect the story that feels most true to them. After all, these tributes are made to stand the test of time.

Once you’ve decided on a custom design, the process always begins with a conversation that is as helpful to you as it is for us. We sit down and talk about your loved one, your ideas, preferences and any important cultural or religious details. Together, we’ll look at everything from the overall style to inscription details. Whether your family member was passionate about cars or flowers, or whether you want traditional or contemporary, simple or ornate, our goal is to help create something that feels meaningful and authentic.

Some key considerations include:

• Cemetery regulations – Every cemetery has its own set of rules for monument size, materials and placement. Our team will review these details early to ensure your design meets all requirements before we begin any of the production work.
• Material and colour selection – Granite is a durable, long-lasting material and comes in a wide range of natural tones, from classic black and grey to softer shades of blue or red. The colour you choose will shape the feel and mood of the final piece.
• Religious and cultural beliefs – Many families like to include symbols, patterns or traditional elements that hold special meaning. We have experienced designers and stonemasons who can work across all faiths and traditions, handling every project with care and respect.
• Inscription design – This is one of the most personal parts of the process. We can help choose fonts, layout and finishes so the words remain legible, balanced and beautiful for years to come.

Once everything is laid out during the consultation phase, we’re ready to bring your vision to life. Our design team will prepare a detailed drawing or digital proof so you can review and request any necessary adjustments before we proceed to manufacturing.

Next, stonemasons use precise, modern equipment alongside traditional techniques to cut, shape and engrave the granite with extreme attention to detail, because accuracy is at the heart of our work. Before installation, each memorial will undergo a final quality inspection to confirm that every element meets our standards and, most importantly, the family’s expectations.

Upon completion, our team will coordinate installation at the cemetery, adhering to all structural and regulatory standards. We also offer ongoing services, such as additional inscriptions or photos you’d like included in the future.

It’s normal to start the process feeling overwhelmed by both grief and the number of decisions that come after saying goodbye. What we often see is that people are surprised by how emotional and yet healing the design process can be. Seeing that first sketch can bring back fond memories and offer comfort as you watch it come to life. Others find quiet solace in choosing the wording or symbols that best reflect their loved one.

By the time the piece is installed, most families feel proud of what they’ve created, how enduring it is, and how much it will mean to future generations.

Our team at Globe Memorial is here to help you through the process of honouring your loved one and make it as easy as possible, from the first consultation to the sketch to the stone. A life well lived deserves to be remembered for years to come.
If you’re considering a custom memorial, we invite you to contact us to begin the design process. Our compassionate team is here to help bring your vision to life.