Process of Commissioning a Headstone

Step 1

I’ll encourage you to meet me at my workshop in Chipping Norton. It’s a chance for me to get to know a little bit about your loved one, your likes and dislikes in terms of the stone type, the words for the inscription and the design. The next of kin can feel pressurised to begin the commissioning process shortly after the funeral, but something as important as this can’t be rushed. Visiting too soon after the death of a loved one can be an emotional event and grief can obstruct the words you want to express on a memorial. Furthermore, a headstone cannot be installed until at least 12 to 18 months after a burial because it takes that long for the grave to settle. You’ll know when it’s time to begin the commissioning process because the words you want to say will be clearer. And this clarity will lead to a more uplifting inscription and this is ultimately what I encourage.  A headstone should be a celebration of life rather than a marker of death. From a commissioning point of view, the words are the most important because not only can it dictate the type of stone that’s used but also its shape and style. So it’s important to give it time.  

Step 2

Once we have the initial meeting and I’ve formed an understanding of the style and content of the headstone to be commissioned, I’ll get a design down on paper and send it over to you with a quote for the work. This is when your honesty comes in. This is your opportunity to pass it around the family and let me know what you like and don’t like about it. I can make adjustments where appropriate. The design phase is a process of improvement.

Step 3

When you’re happy with the design, an application will be made to vicar or council to gain permission to have it erected in the churchyard or cemetery.

Step 4

When approval is granted and the permit has been obtained, it’s time to order in the stone. This is when I ask for a 20% deposit.

Step 5

When the stone is delivered, I’ll draw the design out on the headstone. I’ll encourage you to visit again and have a look at it. This is one of the most important steps in the process because it allows you to gain a better understanding of what the headstone will look like when it’s carved. It’s also an opportunity to make final adjustments and - crucially - make sure the names are spelt correctly and the dates are right.

Step 6

Once you’ve given your final go ahead, that’s when I start carving.

Step 7

The final step! I’ll arrange an installation date with you. And you can either be there when I install the headstone but it’s not essential. The final invoice will be sent upon installation.

If you have any further questions, please get in touch. You can call me on 07791969667 or simply fill out the form below.