Can You Pre-Order a Headstone? Pros and Cons
Planning for the future is an act of love and foresight. When it comes to memorials, many families wonder if they can pre-order a headstone, either for themselves or an aging loved one. The short answer is yes—and at Richfield Monuments, we've helped families with pre-arrangements for generations. But is it the right choice for your situation? Let's explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of pre-ordering a headstone.
Understanding Pre-Ordering vs. Pre-Need Planning
Before diving into pros and cons, it's helpful to understand what pre-ordering a headstone actually means. Unlike purchasing a monument immediately after a loss—often called "at-need"—pre-ordering (or "pre-need" planning) involves selecting and paying for a headstone well in advance.
At Richfield Monuments, pre-need clients typically fall into two categories:
Individuals planning their own memorials
Adult children helping aging parents make arrangements
Now, let's examine the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
The Pros of Pre-Ordering a Headstone
1. Financial Benefits and Price Lock
One of the most practical reasons to pre-order a headstone is financial protection. Memorial costs, like most things, tend to rise over time due to inflation and increasing material costs. By purchasing now, you lock in today's prices for:
The monument itself
Granite, bronze, or marble materials
Craftsmanship and design work
Lettering and artwork
For example, a high-quality granite headstone purchased today could cost significantly more in ten or twenty years. Pre-paying ensures that future price increases won't affect your memorial investment.
2. Thoughtful Decision-Making Without Pressure
Making memorial decisions during the immediate grief after a loss can be overwhelming. Families often feel rushed by funeral timelines or emotional stress. Pre-ordering allows for:
Calm, unhurried discussions about design preferences
Time to consider meaningful symbols and inscriptions
The ability to comparison shop and explore options
Involvement from all family members who wish to participate
When emotions aren't running high, you can focus on creating a tribute that truly reflects a life lived.
3. Personalization and Control
Pre-planning gives you complete creative control over your own memorial. You can:
Choose the exact style—whether an upright headstone, flat marker, or companion monument
Select granite colors and finishes that appeal to you
Incorporate personal touches like custom artwork, etchings, or religious symbols
Write your own inscription or choose meaningful quotes
This level of personalization ensures your memorial will be exactly as you envision it, rather than leaving decisions to others who may struggle to guess your preferences.
4. Relieving Burden on Loved Ones
Perhaps the greatest gift of pre-arrangement is the peace of mind it provides to family members. When you've already selected and paid for your headstone, your loved ones are spared from:
Making difficult aesthetic decisions during grief
Navigating unfamiliar monument companies and cemetery regulations
Worrying about affordability or financing options
Coordinating multiple family opinions under time pressure
Instead, they can focus on healing and remembering, knowing your memorial wishes are already fulfilled.
5. Cemetery Coordination Handled in Advance
A reputable local monument company like Richfield Monuments handles all cemetery coordination as part of the process. When you pre-order, we can:
Verify cemetery regulations regarding size, materials, and foundations
Ensure your chosen design complies with all requirements
Arrange for proper installation when the time comes
Store your completed monument until it's needed
This eliminates a significant logistical burden for your family later.
The Cons of Pre-Ordering a Headstone
1. Uncertainty About Future Circumstances
Life is unpredictable, and circumstances can change. Potential concerns include:
Relocation: What if you or your loved one moves to a different city or state?
Changing cemetery plans: You might later choose a different burial plot or cemetery
Family dynamics: Relationships and decision-makers can shift over time
However, reputable monument companies can often address these concerns. For instance, many monuments can be designed to be transferable, and some companies offer flexible policies if plans change.
2. Upfront Financial Commitment
While pre-paying locks in prices, it does require a significant financial outlay now rather than later. Some families may prefer to keep those funds available for other needs, especially if they're uncertain about future financial situations.
Options to discuss with monument professionals include:
Payment plans that allow installments over time
Trust arrangements that hold funds securely
Partial pre-payment with balance due at delivery
3. Design Limitations Over Time
Tastes and preferences can evolve. A design that feels perfect today might feel dated or less meaningful decades from now. While classic styles tend to remain timeless, highly trendy elements might not age as well.
Working with experienced designers who understand enduring memorial traditions can help you strike the right balance between personal expression and timeless appeal.
4. Maintenance and Storage Considerations
Completed monuments require proper storage until installation. Reputable companies have secure facilities to protect your memorial, but it's worth understanding:
How and where your monument will be stored
Whether there are any storage fees
The company's policy if you need to make changes before installation
5. Choosing the Wrong Provider
Because pre-ordering is a long-term commitment, selecting the right monument company is crucial. Look for:
Longstanding reputation and stability (like Richfield Monuments' 130+ years in business)
Clear contracts and transparent pricing
Local presence with face-to-face service
Positive reviews from families over many years
A company that won't be there when you need them can negate the benefits of pre-planning.
Special Considerations for Different Situations
For Parents Planning for Themselves
Pre-ordering your own headstone can be an empowering experience. It ensures your legacy is expressed exactly as you wish and spares your children from guesswork. Many couples choose to pre-order companion monuments together, selecting a design that honors their shared life.
For Adult Children Helping Aging Parents
When helping parents with pre-need arrangements, approach the conversation with sensitivity. Focus on:
The gift of relieving future burdens on the family
Ensuring their wishes are honored
Handling logistics while they're able to participate
For Those with Specific Design Wishes
If you envision something highly customized—like intricate custom artwork, special symbols, or unique shapes—pre-ordering gives you the time to work with designers to get every detail right.
Questions to Ask Before Pre-Ordering
If you're considering pre-ordering a headstone, here are important questions to discuss with your monument provider:
What is your policy if plans change? (Relocation, different cemetery, etc.)
How is my payment protected? (Trust accounts, refund policies)
Can I make changes to the design later?
Where will my monument be stored, and are there fees?
How do you coordinate with cemeteries outside your local area?
What warranties or guarantees do you offer?
Making the Decision That's Right for You
Pre-ordering a headstone is a deeply personal decision with meaningful advantages and some considerations to weigh. For many families, the benefits of financial protection, thoughtful planning, and relieving future burdens far outweigh the potential drawbacks.
At Richfield Monuments, we've guided families through pre-need arrangements since 1895. We understand that this decision involves both practical considerations and emotional significance. Whether you're planning for yourself or helping a loved one, our experienced team is here to provide compassionate, knowledgeable guidance every step of the way.
Taking the Next Step
If you're considering pre-ordering a headstone, we invite you to visit our showroom for a no-obligation consultation. We'll help you explore options, understand cemetery requirements in your area, and make an informed decision that brings you peace of mind.
Remember, pre-planning isn't about dwelling on loss—it's about ensuring that when the time comes, your loved ones can focus on remembering and honoring you, without the weight of difficult decisions during their grief. It's one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give to those you love.
Have questions about pre-ordering a headstone? Contact Richfield Monuments today to speak with our knowledgeable staff. We're here to help you create a lasting tribute that honors a life beautifully lived.
