A Guide to Memorial Benches

Image of a cemetery bench on Tegeler Monument Company's website

Whether you’re helping to make final arrangements for a loved one who has passed or planning ahead for your own funeral and memorial, details around the headstone and/or monument that will mark the grave site must be considered. While many people choose to go a more traditional route with a headstone or grave marker, there are alternatives available for those looking for something a little different. One alternative is a graveside memorial bench. Available in a variety of colors, shapes, and styles with the ability to feature symbols, imagery, or even etching, memorial benches can be a beautiful and touching way to honor your loved one. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Graveside Memorial Bench?

Also called a cemetery bench, the tradition of having a bench at a grave site dates back to ancient Greece. After erecting a stone table area to place food and wine during gravesite celebrations, the Greeks then installed a type of stone bench for families to have a place to sit during visits. Throughout history, cemetery benches remained popular as a type of seating for loved ones to rest while paying tribute to those they’ve lost.

Having memorial benches by gravesites gives a place for family members and loved ones to spend time reflecting and feeling close to their deceased loved one. These benches can also be placed in parks, houses of worship or other areas.

Types Of Memorial Benches

There are essentially three types of memorial benches, though it’s important to work with your monument company to learn about your options. It’s also important to note that the style of memorial benches available can depend on the cemetery you choose, as some have restrictions or preferences. Talk to the cemetery and your monument company to ensure you stay within regulations.

The three types of memorial benches are:

  • Cremation bench: Typically used to house cremated remains for you or loved one. The remains are placed within the bench. You can also add vases to adorn the monument with flowers.
  • Memorial park bench: Like a bench you’d see in a park, a memorial park bench can be customized with engravings, etchings, and more.
  • Pedestal memorial bench: These benches come in a variety of materials and colors. They are sturdy and can be added to a small granite headstone for additional elegance.

How To Customize a Memorial Bench

Start by working with your local monument company to understand your options and design a unique, beautiful bench for your loved one.

One choice you’ll have to make is determining the color of granite you want to use. Granite is the most common material used for memorial benches and comes in a variety of colors like black, grey, red, green, blue, brown, and more.

Benches can also be customized by style and shape. Choose the type of bench you’d like and work with your monument company to design the shape you’re looking for. You can also customize what’s on the bench, such as symbols, imagery, or etchings.

When choosing features to don the bench, select something that represents your loved one. It can be a bible verse or lyric from a song or poem, or their favorite quote. Etchings can be an image of your loved one or something they loved, like a flower. You can include your loved one’s name, date of birth, and date of death. Overall, it’s best to keep these inscriptions short and simple due to the limited space, but also ensure they are genuine and heartfelt.

How Much Does a Cemetery Bench Cost?

The final cost depends on the size, material, color, and personalization you choose. For example, single benches can cost $1,000 to $3,000 or more.

Contact Us

Work with Tegeler Monument Company to ensure you’re designing the perfect bench for your loved one while staying within your budget. We can help you assess your needs and goals and design the perfect memorial for your loved one. Call (410) 788-1318, or fill out our quick contact form today.