The photos in this section were provided by members of the Monument Builders of North America (MBNA) and will provide you with ideas on how you can customize a monument for your loved one that reflects who they were to you, your family, and the world.

Bevel Memorials

Bevel memorials, also known as a pillow marker, are low, but not flat. They come in single or double sizes and can be personalized with symbols or inscriptions. View the gallery of bevel memorials for ideas on how your can memorialize your loved one.

Horizontal Tablets

The horizontal tablet is wider than it is high and is usually set on a base. They are available in many shapes, colors, sizes and styles. While smaller versions can be used for individuals, this is generally selected as a companion or family memorial. For ideas of how you can memorialize your loved one, view the horizontal tablets gallery.

Vertical Tablets

The vertical tablet is higher than it is wide. Vertical tablets can be used to mark multiple individuals or a single grave. Vertical tablets can take many shapes, colors, sizes and styles. You can gather ideas on various styles of vertical tablets in the gallery.

Flat Memorials

Also known as a flush or grass marker, flat memorials are generally installed flush to the ground. They are often used to commemorate one individual; however, longer versions can accommodate two or more individuals. For examples of flat memorials, visit the gallery.

Slant Memorials

Slant memorials typically stand 16 or so inches above the ground. The back of the stone is straight and vertical while the front slopes at about a 45-degree angle. Slant markers may sit directly on the ground or include a base. Be inspired by this gallery of slant memorials.

Ledgers

A ledger is a slab of stone, usually between 4 and 8 inches thick that covers the entire grave. Ledger markers may be engraved and used as the headstone itself, or may also include a monument or headstone at the head of the grave. Samples of ledger markers can be found in the monument gallery.

Garden Memorials

Garden memorials are a wonderful way to honor and pay tribute your loved one. Located in areas of quiet reflection and meditation, garden memorials be in any variety of shapes and sizes—from benches to urns to sundials. They mimic decorative pieces often found in large gardens and may be used alone or in combination with other upright monuments. View the gallery of garden memorials for ideas on how you can memorialize your loved one so close to home.

Crosses

The cross can symbolize love, purity, atonement, and sacrifice. Inscribed with etchings and engravings, or combined with other shapes such as the angel, cross shaped monuments can mark any number of graves. Explore the wide range of cross ideas in the crosses gallery.

Benches

A memorial bench is a piece of furniture which commemorates the life of a loved one who has passed. Memorial benches can also be made of stone, metal, wood or synthetic materials. Typically memorial benches are placed in public places but are often also placed in domestic gardens. View a gallery of memorial benches that may provide you with inspiration.

Civic and Public Memorials

Civic and public memorials are a broad category that consists of veterans war memorials, memorial parks, and permanent structures that signify significant events. Be inspired by this gallery of civic and public memorials.

For additional ideas on how to create a custom memorial for your loved one, please contact a professional monument designer.