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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Memorial Benches
Can a memorial bench replace a traditional headstone?
Yes. In many cemeteries a bench can be used in place of a traditional upright monument or flush marker. However, placement rules vary by cemetery, so it is important to confirm regulations before designing one.
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.
Do all cemeteries allow memorial benches?
Not always. Some cemeteries limit bench placement to specific sections or only allow certain bench styles or sizes. Your monument company can help you navigate these rules and work with the cemetery to confirm what is permitted.
How long does it take to design and install a memorial bench?
Timeline depends on engraving, granite color, bench style, and availability of materials. Most benches take several weeks or months from design approval to installation. Custom or rare materials may take longer.
Can more than one person be memorialized on the same bench?
Absolutely. Many families choose benches as a shared monument for spouses or family members. A bench can also hold cremated remains or be placed alongside a traditional headstone to honor multiple relatives together.
Where is the best place to install a memorial bench?
Most benches are placed at a gravesite, although some families install them in parks, gardens, church grounds, or memorial spaces with permission. The location should feel peaceful, accessible, and meaningful for future visits.
How long will a granite bench last?
Granite benches are built for long term outdoor use and can last for generations with minimal maintenance. They resist weather, fading, and seasonal conditions better than softer stone or metal based memorials.
Can memorial benches include photos or portrait etchings?
Yes. Laser etching technology allows for realistic portraits, nature scenes, handwriting, and finely detailed artwork. Black granite creates the strongest contrast for photo style designs.
How customizable can a bench be?
Nearly every element can be personalized including color, font, engraved symbols, quotes, religious icons, floral art, and shape. Many families choose a short inscription combined with imagery that feels emotionally true to their loved one.
Is a bench a good option for cremation memorialization?
It can be an excellent option. Cremation benches can house urns inside or act as a ceremonial place for loved ones to gather even if remains are kept elsewhere. This gives families a space to visit, sit, and reflect.
What should I consider when selecting bench wording?
Short, sincere, and personal inscriptions tend to feel the most meaningful. Many families use a favorite quote, a meaningful scripture line, a song lyric, or a phrase that captures the essence of who the person was.
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.
Comments are closed