The thought of honouring the life and memory of a loved one following their cremation by designing and installing a cremation memorial may seem overwhelming.
It’s just one of the reasons the expertise of a trusted memorial mason to help guide people through the process always proves invaluable.
The first port of call is to source a local memorial specialist, but how do you know you’re choosing a cremation memorial provider in Bristol that you can trust?
It all comes down to your research and finding answers to the right questions.
Increase in Cremations Across the UK
Back in 1968 the number of cremations in the UK exceeded the number of burials for the first time.
Since then, the number of cremations has continued to increase considerably, with the latest figures revealing that over 80% of deaths in the UK resulted in a cremation during 2021.
In 1968, there were 203 crematoria in the UK. In 2021, there were 315 crematoria.
That’s a 55% increase and shows the growth in popularity as more and more people prefer the option of cremation.
Choosing the Right Cremation Memorial Provider
You’ll want to ensure your cremation memorial provider is capable of designing and manufacturing quality cremation memorials, has a positive and reputable reputation among families within the local community, and has the skills and experience to craft stunning tributes for your loved one that can stand the test of time.
Before selecting a memorial mason in Bristol to craft a cremation memorial, consider asking the following important questions…
What Cremation Memorial Options Are Available?
When families turn up for their appointment with a memorial mason to discuss their options, they are often amazed at the huge variety of cremation memorials that are available.
From cremation plaques to ornamental memorial vases, cremation memorials can be made from a choice of stone materials and colours, and crafted to various shapes, not to mention the additional creative features that modern memorial mason techniques allow such as fine craft etching.
If you plan to install the cremation memorial within a crematorium, do understand that many have various rules and regulations, though knowledgeable memorial masons should be able to inform you of the specifics of each cemetery within the local area.
How Can Cremation Memorials be Personalised?
A cremation memorial that is just as unique as their lost loved one is important for many people.
Do question memorial masons about the personalisation options they offer, such as memorial sizes, stone materials, engraving options, and as mentioned previously, intricate fine craft etching (as pictured above) – which could be an etching of a photograph, logo or symbol etc.
It is often the collection of finer details that can separate your cremation memorial from others and can help ensure that it resonates with the character and personality of your loved one.
Who is Responsible for Designing the Cremation Memorial?
Skilled cremation memorial providers will take the time to listen to your ideas – while offering their own expert input – to ensure they fully understand your vision before transforming it into a stunning, lasting tribute for your loved one.
Find out if the memorial masonry company you’re talking to is capable of handling each step of the cremation memorial process in-house, from initial design concept through to the final creation.
What Factors Will Impact the Cost of your Cremation Memorial?
There are many different factors that can affect the cost of a cremation memorial, including the type of memorial, its size, the stone material used and the level of personalisation.
For example, some stone materials are rarer than others, and therefore they naturally demand a higher price.
Your cremation memorial provider will be able to discuss these factors with you in detail so that you can better understand how they may impact the price.
How Do I Choose A Cremation Memorial?
The vast range of options and possibilities can make it quite a challenge to choose a cremation memorial that perfectly fits your loved one.
You should take as long as you need when deciding on a memorial, from its physical appearance through to the details, message or images that you’d like engraved or etched.
The conversations you will have with a cremation memorial provider can certainly help assist you with your decision, and during those conversations it can be helpful to discuss the following topics:
- The loved one you’re choosing the cremation memorial for.
- The location the cremation memorial is to be installed or placed.
- The pros and cons of the stone materials that most appeal to you.
- The type of design and personalisation options that may best reflect your loved one.
- The amount you would like to spend on the memorial.
Here at Summers Memorials, we have been designing, crafting and installing cremation memorials for families across Bristol and surrounding areas of Somerset since 1906. If you’d like to discuss a cremation memorial for your loved one or would like to learn more about the wide range of other memorials that we can craft, don’t hesitate to book in your consultation with our compassionate team of family advisors. Simply call 0117 955 7676, e-mail info@summersmemorials.co.uk or get in touch using our online contact form.
