September 8, 2023
Cemeteries are much more than final resting places. They are vast landscapes painted with stories of lives lived, dreams pursued, and memories cherished. As you wander through these serene spaces, you might notice a variety of headstone monument styles, each with its unique design and message.
Among these, pillow grave markers have carved a niche, embodying elegance and poignant remembrance. Distinct from traditional flat markers, these monuments capture the essence of those they commemorate, striking a balance between timeless design and personal sentiment.
Summit Memorials, a reputed headstone monument company in Alberta and Saskatchewan, has been at the forefront of crafting these beautiful tributes. We believe in capturing the essence of an individual’s journey and immortalizing it in stone. The beauty, durability, and versatility of pillow grave markers make them an increasingly sought-after choice for many Canadian families.
In this blog, we aim to shed light on these special markers, offering insights into their design, customization potential, and why they might be the ideal choice for your loved one’s final resting place.
Pillow grave markers, not to be confused with flat markers, have a distinctive slant. Their design usually ranges from a gentle 3-inch elevation at the front, rising to 6 inches at the back, or a more prominent rise from 5 inches in the front to 8 inches at the back. This gives them a refined appearance, setting them apart from other memorial stones.
But there’s more to these markers than just their elegant slant. Depending on the size you opt for, pillow grave markers can serve as a memorial for a single individual or as a companion marker, commemorating two lives side by side.
The beauty of these markers is in their versatility; they’re available in a spectrum of colours. While they traditionally sport a rectangular shape, customization options abound. Whether you’re drawn to rounded edges or prefer a specific angle, your vision can become a reality.
With pillow grave markers, not only do you have an opportunity to select a distinctive shape or contour – whether traditional rectangular, rounded edges, specific angles, or entirely bespoke shapes – but you also have an expansive array of grave accessories at your disposal.
These additions serve to enhance the marker’s aesthetics and provide a richer tribute to your loved ones.
Adding a flower vase to the marker can bring a touch of vibrancy, allowing you to place fresh flowers as a tribute. Summit Memorials offers many elegant choices, including:
Photos are worth a thousand words, and integrating a photo onto a grave marker makes the tribute deeply personal and evocative. Summit Memorials provides you with choices in porcelain photographs, available in black & white or vibrant full colour.
The sheer variety of customization options ensures that every pillow grave marker crafted by Summit Memorials truly reflects the spirit and essence of the individual it commemorates.
One of the defining features of pillow grave markers is their foundation. Many are mounted on a sturdy granite base, which offers dual benefits. Firstly, it elevates the marker, typically raising it four to six inches off the ground. This not only adds to its prominence but also provides practical advantages.
Elevated markers are less likely to sustain damage from rogue stones or the occasional groundskeeping mishap when the grass is being trimmed around them.
Also read: How To Protect A Gravestone During The Winter
While the appeal of diamond and laser etching is undeniable, they might not always be the best fit for pillow grave markers. On a pillow marker, especially when morning dew settles, or direct sunlight casts its rays, etched designs may become challenging to discern.
We recommend shadow-toned designs, which offer clarity and longevity, and stand out beautifully, irrespective of weather conditions.
A marker’s finish can alter a grave marker’s overall appearance dramatically. Whether you’re looking for a muted elegance or a radiant sheen, the polishing options for pillow grave markers are varied. Opt for a single side or three, or go all out with five polished surfaces.
These polished areas can be inscribed with personal messages, dedications, family names, or any design that holds sentimental value.
At Summit Memorials, we understand the profoundness of this decision. Our legacy in crafting premium-quality memorial headstones, including the nuanced pillow grave markers, ensures your loved one’s memory is immortalized with dignity, love, and craftsmanship. Our commitment is not just about providing a stone but offering a piece of history, a tangible testament to love and memories.
Contact us today to speak with one of our monument design consultants.
