Preplanning Your Memorial: Benefits & How to Get Started

Planning a memorial in advance is one of the most thoughtful gifts a person can leave for their family. While it may feel uncomfortable at first, preplanning offers clarity, comfort, and peace of mind—both for you and for the loved ones who will one day honor your memory. More and more people in Southern Minnesota are choosing to design their memorial ahead of time, ensuring their wishes are honored and easing emotional and financial stress for their families.

Here’s why preplanning your memorial can be such a meaningful decision, along with guidance on how to begin the process.

Why Preplanning Matters

1. It Reduces Emotional Stress for Your Family

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and families often feel pressured to make quick decisions regarding memorial options. Preplanning removes that burden. When your choices are already documented, your family can focus on healing instead of trying to guess what you would have wanted. Knowing your exact wishes can bring tremendous comfort at a difficult time.

2. You Control the Design and Details

Preplanning gives you the opportunity to choose every detail that matters to you, including:

• Granite color

• Monument style

• Shape and size

• Inscriptions, verses, or quotes

• Artwork, symbols, or imagery

• Space for future names, if needed

• Traditional or creative elements

Many people find the process empowering, as it enables them to create a tribute that reflects their values, personality, and life story.

3. It Helps Lock In Today’s Prices

Memorial costs vary based on granite type, design complexity, and market conditions. Preplanning allows you to secure today’s pricing and avoid future increases. For families, this can make a substantial difference—especially if planning ahead by several years or decades.

Getting what you want writing is key to preplanning.

4. Cemetery Requirements Are Addressed Early

Each cemetery has its own regulations regarding size, materials, and placement. Preplanning ensures your chosen memorial is fully compliant and avoids any confusion later. This saves time and reduces the risk of delays or unexpected limitations.

5. It Gives You Time to Reflect on Your Legacy

Many people appreciate the opportunity to think deeply about the message they want to leave behind. Whether it's a favorite scripture, an inspiring quote, or a personal phrase that sums up your life philosophy, preplanning gives you space to choose the words that will represent you for generations.

How to Get Started with Preplanning

Step 1: Schedule a Consultation

Connect with a trusted monument company—such as Owatonna Granite & Monument—to begin discussing your ideas. You can meet in person, or start the process by phone or email.

Step 2: Explore Your Options

View samples, granite colors, design styles, and layout ideas. Your memorial consultant will walk you through ideas that match your goals and budget.

Step 3: Design Your Memorial

Together, you’ll choose inscriptions, artwork, shape, and finishing touches. A design proof will be created so you can review the final layout before approval.

Step 4: Document Your Wishes

Once the design is complete, the details are securely documented. This ensures your family has clear guidance when the time comes.

A Thoughtful Gift for Those You Love

Preplanning your memorial is a meaningful act of love. It provides clarity, removes uncertainty, and ensures your legacy is honored exactly as you envisioned. At Owatonna Granite & Monument, we are here to help you every step of the way, offering compassionate guidance as you make these important decisions.

If you’re ready to start the preplanning process—or simply want more information—our team is here to help.