When making final arrangements, choosing a memorial that honors a life—or two lives joined together—is a deeply personal decision. For many couples, a companion flat headstone, also known as a ledger or flush marker, offers a beautiful and unified way to be remembered side by side. These memorials are set flush with the ground, creating a subtle, elegant tribute that is both practical and timeless.
If you’re considering a flat headstone for a couple, here’s what you need to know about the design, cost, and key factors to consider.
Design Ideas for a Shared Memorial
A flat headstone for a couple is a single piece of stone, typically granite, that spans two burial plots. This unified surface allows for creative and meaningful design elements.
- Shared Imagery: Many couples choose a central image or symbol that represents their life together. This could be a shared hobby, a beloved landmark, a religious symbol, or a simple, classic design like two intertwined rings, doves, or a heart.
- Combined Names & Dates: The most common layout features the couple’s names and their individual birth and death dates. Some people opt to include the date of their marriage as a central point, symbolizing the start of their journey together.
- Custom Engravings: The smooth, flat surface is perfect for detailed engravings. Consider including a favorite poem, a line from a song, a shared motto, or even an engraved portrait or landscape that holds special meaning. Laser-etched photographs are also a beautiful way to capture a lasting memory.
- Material and Color: While gray granite is the most common and durable choice, many other colors are available. Black granite offers a striking contrast for engravings, while red or blue granite can provide a warmer, more unique feel.
Headstones for Married Couples: Cost Considerations
The cost of a flat headstone for a couple can vary widely depending on several factors, but it is often a more economical choice than two separate upright monuments.
- Material: The type and color of granite are the biggest cost drivers. More exotic colors and custom finishes will increase the price.
- Size: A companion flat headstone is larger than a single marker, so the size will directly affect the material cost.
- Design Complexity: Simple text engraving is the most affordable option. The cost increases with complex custom artwork, multiple fonts, and laser-etched photos.
- Installation & Cemetery Fees: Always factor in the cost of installation by a professional and any fees charged by the cemetery for the plot and monument placement.
It’s always best to get a detailed quote from a reputable memorial company like our team at Shastone Memorials.
What to Consider Before You Order
Before finalizing your decision, take the following into account:
- Cemetery Regulations: Every cemetery has specific rules and regulations regarding the size, material, and type of memorial allowed. Always check with the cemetery first to ensure a flat headstone is an approved option for your plots.
- Durability and Maintenance: Flat headstones for married couples are highly durable but can be more susceptible to dirt and debris settling on their surface compared to upright stones. Regular, simple cleaning with water and a soft brush will keep the memorial looking its best for years to come.
- Future Plans: Consider how the memorial fits into your long-term plans. A single companion stone creates a clear and beautiful tribute for two lives and can simplify future arrangements for family members.
A companion flat headstone provides a beautiful, understated, and enduring way to honor a couple’s legacy. It’s a testament to a shared life, engraved in stone for generations to come.