Our Guidance for Selecting the Right Memorial

At J.Gumbrill, we understand that a memorial is far more than stone — it is a lasting tribute to a loved one. Let our expert team guide you on what to consider when choosing the perfect memorial in remembrance of your loved one.

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Churchyard Memorials

Churchyards typically have specific rules and guidelines that govern the size, design, material, and wording allowed on memorials. These regulations are set by the relevant Diocese which often aims to maintain the peaceful, historic character of churchyards and to ensure a sense of harmony across all memorials. Because these requirements vary, it’s important to understand them early in the process. Doing so will help you choose a memorial that not only honours your loved one but also aligns with the setting’s traditions and receives the necessary approval. Our team will advise you to ensure your chosen memorial adheres to prevailing regulations.

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Cemetery Memorials

Each cemetery has its own set of regulations regarding the type, size, material, and design of memorials permitted within their grounds. These guidelines are usually in place to ensure safety, ease of maintenance, and a consistent appearance throughout the cemetery. As regulations differ, it’s important to understand these before making any decisions. Understanding these rules in advance will help you choose a memorial that meets all requirements and provides a dignified, lasting tribute to your loved one. Our team will advise you to ensure your chosen memorial meets the requirements of the burial authority where it will be installed.

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Stone Type

There are many different types of stone to consider when choosing the most suitable memorial for your loved one. Each material offers its own unique aesthetic, while also differing in durability and maintenance needs, and some materials require certain lettering types or preclude particular finishes. Our team’s expert advice helps you get the combination just right to ensure the most appropriate choice.

Stone Shape and Size Featured Image - Horsham Stone

The shape and size of the memorial will play a significant role in the overall appearance and presence of the tribute, as well as in how much space is available for inscriptions. From traditional upright headstones to more modern or bespoke designs, the shape can reflect personal style, religious significance, or family tradition. Regulations will need to be considered but we can guide you to ensure your preferences meet the rules in the memorial’s setting.

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Detailing

The lettering, inscription, and ornamentation of any memorial are where you truly add those all-important personal touches. This is your opportunity to reflect the personality, values, and legacy of your loved one, creating a heartfelt and lasting expression of remembrance. We can advise you on what is permissible in the memorial’s setting while also giving you access to incredible bespoke craftsmanship by our highly skilled lettercutting team.

Get a quote

Where possible, we would like to arrange to meet with you face to face to discuss your requirements in as much detail as possible, and help you take advantage of our showroom which has numerous examples of stone types and lettering options, as well as being able to demonstrate how different choices you make can impact the overall finish. However, we will also work with you by email or telephone if this is your preference.

We need you to make several decisions in order to prepare a quote, these include the shape and material of the stone, the inscription you require and how you would like it lettered. We will then produce a bespoke quote to these requirements, and outline the process once it is accepted.

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