Things to consider when buying a memorial for a loved one

After a difficult goodbye, a memorial becomes the place where love and memories meet. Choosing one is a personal and important process, and it can feel overwhelming while moving through a time of grief and reflection. At Globe Memorial Company, we know how much it matters to have a lasting tribute for your loved one, and we work closely with you to create something that feels true to who they were.

Whether you have a traditional monument, a headstone or a custom memorial plaque in mind, there are a few key things to consider. Your decisions will help tell their story and must also meet the requirements of the cemetery.

A memorial can take many forms, from something that stands proudly in its place to something that rests quietly within its surroundings. Each type offers a different way to celebrate a life and create a place for remembrance. Some common options include:

• Headstones are upright and sit on a base. They are available in various shapes, sizes and colours. There is ample space for names, dates, meaningful symbols and photos.
• Full monuments cover the whole grave and have a larger presence. A monument will include a headstone, kerbing and ledger or concrete centre with granite chips.
• Plaques are simple and economical options for grave markers.
• Custom memorials are made to measure when you want the design to be fully personalised to reflect faith, culture or personal history.

We offer a variety of styles and are ready to share ideas and examples to help you see what’s possible.

Every Australian Cemetery has it’s own rules for memorials. These regulations mostly cover the size of the memorial and, in some locations, the colour and style of the monument. Before proceeding, it’s important to check these requirements or provide us with the cemetery details so we can assist to ensure your memorial complies with all guidelines.

Granite is a popular choice for memorials because it is both durable and beautiful. It can be shaped and polished in many ways, which makes it well-suited to traditional and custom designs. It also holds fine details such as inscriptions and artwork, so families can feel confident these will remain clear and intact for many years without fading or erosion.

The colour of the granite is another way to make a memorial personal and meaningful. Classic black offers a formal and timeless look, while softer greys and whites create a more understated presence. Warm shades of red or the shimmer of blue pearl can add individuality and link the memorial to favourite colours, personal preferences or cultural traditions. In some faiths and communities, certain colours hold symbolic meaning and may be chosen to match other family memorials in the same cemetery.

At Globe Memorial Company, we offer a wide selection of colours to choose from, which you can explore in our colour guide. While the choice is deeply personal, our team is here to offer guidance and advice if needed.

Memorialising a loved one is never a small task because every person is unique. Inspiration can come from anywhere. It might be a memorial you have noticed in another cemetery, a favourite flower, a line from a poem or a place your family member always loved. If you already have something in mind, you can bring a photo or describe it in your own words. If you are starting from scratch, that is fine too. We can work with you to create something bespoke and special.

A custom design usually begins with a simple sketch that is then developed into a more detailed plan. This stage is about working out practical details such as measurements, materials, inscriptions and artwork. Seeing the layout gives you a clear idea of how it will look, so you can fine-tune any of the particulars before work begins.

Families often spend the most time thinking about the inscription. A life well lived is not always easy to put into words. Some choose simplicity, while others prefer a detailed verse, quote or message that captures the essence of their loved one. It is the part of the memorial every visitor will pause to read for years to come, so it should feel right and carry the sentiment you want to share. If you need help with this, our experienced team can guide you in crafting the perfect inscription.

Further personal touches can also be added through design elements such as:

• Photos – Ceramic portraits in colour or black and white that place a likeness of the person on the memorial.
• Motifs or symbols – Religious icons, flowers, cultural emblems or other designs that reflect beliefs, heritage or passions.
• Accessories – Vases, candle boxes, statues or religious ornaments that make the space more personal and welcoming.

We know this is a difficult time and will always approach your memorial needs with empathy and clarity. Starting the conversation is easier if we have a few details from the beginning.

When you’re ready to make an enquiry or request a quote, please provide the following details so we can assist you more efficiently:

• Cemetery Name
• Location and Site Number (if known)
• Type of Memorial you are looking for (Headstone, Monument, Plaque, etc.)
• Design Preferences (e.g. photos or examples from our website or a cemetery)
• Preferred Granite Colour
• Do you require a Photo, Motif, or Accessory?

Even if you’re not sure about every detail, our compassionate team can help. Globe Memorial Company is committed to creating a beautiful, lasting tribute that captures your loved one’s life and legacy.