Ordering & Timescales
Placing an Order
Our experienced advisors can guide you through every step of the process, from choosing a memorial, to gaining permission from the cemetery or crematorium and deciding on an inscription.
At a glance
In detail
Step 1: Speak with one of our advisors about your chosen design and inscription text. If you are unsure then we can help you through the decision process either over the phone, by email or by arranging a home visit. Some cemeteries and churchyards have restrictions on the size and materials they will allow so we will be able to check this before going any further.
Step 2: When you are completely happy with your choice of memorial and inscription we will confirm the price and ask for a 20% deposit. This is payable by debit or credit card, bank transfer or personal cheque if preferred.
Step 3: We will then go ahead and begin the process of manufacturing, lettering and fixing of your memorial stone (subject to permit approval by the cemetery/crematorium). If you have chosen to order a photo plaque then we will ask you to send a good quality photo to us by email or post. See our FAQ section for more detailed information about this.
Payment Terms
First Instalment: 20% Deposit when you place an order (as mentioned above).
Second Instalment: 75% of balance plus burial ground fee.
The burial ground fee is only payable once we receive an approved permit from the cemetery or church authority. Obtaining a permit takes on average 2-3 weeks from your first instalment.
Final Payment: The remaining balance is payable on completion. In other words you only pay this portion once your memorial has been fixed in the cemetery (or exported in some cases).
Timescales
When can a memorial be erected on a grave?
A headstone can usually be erected on a grave six months after the last interment has taken place, as the ground requires time to settle. If cremated remains are interred in a grave, a headstone may be fixed immediately, as the ground requires no settling period.
How long will my order take?
We estimate that orders for our standard designs will take approximately 4 months to manufacture & deliver.
This estimate begins from the date we have received both the cemetery or church permit and your second instalment rather than from the date you place your order. The process of obtaining a permit is carried out by us on your behalf and is generally straightforward. If you are having a more unusual style or size of memorial it can take longer to clarify the details with the cemetery and obtain permission which will affect the final delivery/fixing date.
We always endeavour to complete your order as quickly as possible but there are some factors over which have no control, such as shipping and council response times. This means that some orders will take less than 4 months but others may take more. We will always keep you informed about the progress of your order.
If your order is for a non-standard memorial, it is very likely that the manufacturing & delivery time will be greater than 4 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which letter colour lasts longest?
The letters for your inscription can be simply cut into the stone and left plain or they can be painted black, white, silver or gilded with gold leaf. They are all equally resillient to the weather but conditions will vary from location to location so the colour chosen should be based simply on personal choice. It is also worth noting that lettering which is placed on flat surfaces (ie on the top of a headstone base) will weather more quickly than those on the face of the headstone.
Can I have blue or pink writing?
A pale blue or pink paint is often used for children’s memorials and works very well. We can accommodate most colour requests for lettering and sandblasted designs. Our experienced staff can advise on the longevity and suitability of your chosen colour when we put together your quotation.
Can I design my own Memorial Stone?
If the particular shape or style of memorial you would like is not in our standard collection, we will be happy to work with you to create something bespoke. Whether it is just swapping one type of vase or statue for another or creating a whole new design, we have the expertise to guide you through it. Call or email us to discuss in more detail or use our Live Chat feature on the bottom right of your screen.
TESTIMONIALS
Thank you for your email. I have been down to the Cemetery this afternoon to see the Memorial. It is always difficult to imagine what something will look like from a picture, but I have to say it looks beautiful and I know my Mum and Dad would have approved of my choice.
Once again I wish to thank you and all your staff for your help, assistance and advice.
Lynne C. Sent by email: 07/06/2017
Exceptional service. Kept me informed throughout. End product is beautiful. They travelled a long distance to fit headstone. Highly recommend this Company.
St Mary de Wyche Churchyard, Worcester.
Angela B. Google Review: 15/06/2021
I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart. The headstone is absolutely perfect and what a fantastic job the workmen did erecting it. To say I am pleased with it is an understatement.
Many many thanks.
Elisabeth J. Sent by email: 08/02/2019
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