Many people don't think about preparing for their death until it is too late. However, it should not be like that. When you pass, your family will be in mourning. If you can pay for everything and have everything decided beforehand, then everything is that much easier for your family. Headstones have a long history of marking the place of a loved one. Many years ago, footstones were also used to completely mark the space where the loved one lays.

Requirements

Make sure before you order your headstone that you have bought a plot of ground in a local cemetery. You can then check with the cemetery on their rules regarding headstone size and other requirements. Some cemeteries may outlaw certain markings or a vase attached to the headstone. You may need to have a flat headstone, depending on the cemetery. To air on the side of caution, purchase your plot before you visit the stonemason.

Styles and Designs

Obviously, there are multiple styles and designs that are available for you to choose. A stonemason who runs the business can usually ask you a few questions and be able to direct you to a few headstones that will make the decision less complicated. He may ask some of the following questions. Preparing yourself with the answers beforehand can help the meeting go more smoothly.

• Will you want your spouse's name to have a space on the headstone as well?
• Do you have a specific color that you want?
• Do you want a flat headstone or one that stands up?
• What type of stone do you want? (Granite and marble are common options.)
• What would you like the headstone to say?
• Would you like a permanent vase attachment?

Cost

The cost of your headstone really depends on how you embellish it. You will need to speak with your stonemason to get a quote on the design you are thinking. Granite and marble are top quality and will keep the stone from crumbling as quickly. Their cost fluctuates, meaning that one is not necessarily more expensive than the other. Their cost really depends on the coloring of the stone. Generally, though, marble is the more expensive option. Another cost can be a warranty. Generally, a stonemason will provide a warranty along with the headstone purchase. However, this is not always the case. Ask your stonemason about his warranty policy, and if your stonemason does offer a warranty, what damage does he offer protection against?