Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences. Amid the grief, families are faced with important decisions—one of the most lasting being how to memorialize their loved one with a headstone. At Richfield Monuments, we understand the importance of this choice and are here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. This guide walks you through every step of ordering a headstone in Utah, offering clarity, compassion, and expert advice.

Step 1: Understand Cemetery Rules and Regulations

Before selecting a headstone, it's crucial to check the specific rules of the cemetery where your loved one is buried. Each cemetery may have its own guidelines regarding:

• Headstone size and materials

• Flat vs. upright monuments

• Single vs. companion markers

• Engraving and inscription limitations

• Installation requirements

For instance, Salt Lake City Cemetery restricts upright headstones to a maximum height of 3 feet and specific width dimensions . Similarly, Bountiful City Cemetery has detailed regulations on marker sizes and the use of vases . Understanding these rules ensures compliance and prevents future issues. At Richfield Monuments, we work directly with local cemeteries across Sevier County and the state of Utah to ensure compliance.

Step 2: Choose the Type of Headstone

Headstones come in various styles and materials. The right choice depends on personal preference, cemetery regulations, and budget.

Popular headstone types in Utah include:

• Flat Markers: Also known as grass markers, these lie flat on the ground and offer a clean, minimalist appearance.

• Bevel Markers: These sit slightly raised and are angled for easier reading.

• Upright Monuments: The most traditional option, upright headstones offer ample space for personalization.

• Slant Markers: With a wedge-shaped design, slant markers offer visibility while occupying less vertical space.

• Custom Memorials: For unique tributes, custom-designed monuments can incorporate statues, benches, or special shapes.

Each style offers different aesthetic and maintenance considerations. For example, slant headstones provide a prominent display without the height of upright monuments, making them a popular choice for many families . At Richfield Monuments, we offer a full range of monument styles crafted from high-quality granite and other durable materials suited to Utah’s climate.

Step 3: Select the Material and Color

Granite is the most popular choice for headstones in Utah due to its durability, low maintenance, and availability in various colors. Common granite colors include:

• Traditional gray

• Black

• Red

• Blue pearl

• Mahogany

Each color carries its own symbolism and aesthetic appeal. For instance, Jet Black granite offers a striking contrast for inscriptions, while Dakota Mahogany provides a warm, earthy tone . We’ll help you choose a stone that suits both your vision and the cemetery’s landscape. We also offer bronze plaques, often used for flat markers or as additions to upright stones.

In addition to the popular granite colors shown, we offer a wider selection of hues and finishes to suit every preference, including specialty options like rose, green, and custom blends. If you have a specific color in mind or would like to explore more samples, please don’t hesitate to contact us for personalized assistance.

Step 4: Personalize the Design and Inscription

This step is deeply meaningful. A headstone serves as a permanent tribute, so it’s important to get the wording and design just right.

Consider the following personalization options:

• Name, birth and death dates

• A short epitaph or verse (e.g., “Forever in Our Hearts” or a scripture reference)

• Symbols or religious icons

• Portraits or laser-etched images

• Custom fonts and decorative borders

When crafting an inscription, it's essential to reflect the individual's personality and legacy. Resources like our Richfield Monument's Design Catalog can guide you in creating a headstone or monument of which you can be proud. Our team at Richfield Monuments offers expert design support. Whether you bring in your own ideas or need help starting from scratch, we ensure the headstone captures your loved one’s legacy.

Step 5: Approve the Proof and Finalize the Order

Once the design is complete, we’ll provide a digital proof for your review. This allows you to double-check:

• Spelling and dates

• Design layout

• Fonts and images

• Stone size and shape

We recommend having multiple family members review the proof before approval. After you’ve signed off, we’ll proceed with engraving and crafting the monument. It's worth noting that the entire process, from design to installation, can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity and materials chosen. We have been able to meet most required timelines due to our monument process all being done in house. We can usually have your monument done in 3 months from when you order.

Step 6: Confirm Installation Details

Most cemeteries in Utah require headstones to be installed by a licensed monument installer. At Richfield Monuments, we handle the installation process from start to finish, including scheduling, delivery, and setting.

We also coordinate with cemetery managers to ensure that installation meets seasonal timelines—some Utah cemeteries pause installations during winter months due to frozen ground. Understanding the installation process can provide peace of mind; for a detailed overview, consider reading about the steps involved in headstone installation .

Step 7: Care and Maintenance Tips

After installation, you’ll want to keep the headstone clean and preserved. Here are a few care tips:

• Use gentle, non-acidic cleaners and soft cloths.

• Avoid harsh pressure washers, which can damage inscriptions.

• Check the foundation regularly for any signs of shifting.

• Contact us for professional cleaning or restoration services if needed.

Granite stones are extremely durable, but environmental elements like snow, sun, and dust can affect appearance over time. Regular maintenance ensures the memorial remains a fitting tribute. For questions regarding maintenance please contact us.

Why Choose Richfield Monuments?

As a trusted headstone provider in Central Utah, Richfield Monuments brings decades of experience in monument design, engraving, and installation. We are a family-owned business with deep roots in the Sevier County community and are honored to help families create lasting memorials for their loved ones.

We offer:

• Personalized one-on-one service

• In-house design and engraving

• Local delivery and installation throughout Utah

• Competitive pricing and transparent quotes

• Compassionate support during a difficult time

Whether you are pre-planning or choosing a headstone for a recently passed loved one, our caring staff is here to guide you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts

Ordering a headstone in Utah doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking the process step by step—and partnering with an experienced local provider like Richfield Monuments—you can ensure your loved one is honored with a beautiful and lasting tribute.

If you have questions or are ready to begin the process, we invite you to reach out or visit our showroom in Richfield, Utah. Let us help you create a memorial that speaks to a life well lived.