How to Choose a Headstone: Step-by-Step Guide for Oklahoma Families

Choosing a headstone for a loved one is one of the most meaningful decisions a family will make after a loss. It's a permanent tribute that honors their memory, tells their story, and marks their final resting place for generations to come.

If you're an Oklahoma family facing this decision, you're not alone. At Gifford Monument Works in Ada, we've helped thousands of families across Oklahoma and North Texas navigate this process since 1936. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to choose a headstone in Oklahoma — covering cemetery rules, budget, materials, design options, and everything in between.

Step 1: Check Your Cemetery's Rules and Requirements

Before you begin choosing a design or material, the very first step is to contact your cemetery and ask for their monument regulations. Every cemetery — whether it's a historic church cemetery in rural Oklahoma or a modern memorial park in the Dallas-Fort Worth area — has specific rules that govern headstone size, style, material, and installation.

Here's what to ask:

• Are upright monuments allowed, or is the cemetery flat-marker-only? Some Oklahoma cemeteries require flush markers for a uniform appearance.
• What are the maximum dimensions? Height, width, and thickness restrictions vary widely.
• Is a concrete foundation required? Most cemeteries require a poured foundation to prevent settling.
• What materials are approved? Granite is the industry standard, but some cemeteries have specific requirements for color or finish.
• Is there a permit or approval process? Many cemeteries require a drawing or proof before installation.

Gifford Monument handles all cemetery coordination and approval paperwork on your behalf — one less thing for you to worry about during a difficult time.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Headstone costs in Oklahoma vary widely depending on size, material, customization, and whether you choose a flat marker or an upright monument. Here's a general breakdown:

• Flat granite markers: $400–$800
• Standard upright monuments: $1,200–$3,500
• Premium or fully custom designs: $3,500 and up

Because Gifford Monument is factory-direct — meaning we fabricate every stone in-house rather than marking up imported pieces — Oklahoma families often save 20–40% compared to retail monument companies. When you view our monument packages, you'll see transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Setting a budget early helps narrow your options and prevents decision fatigue. Keep in mind that a headstone is a one-time investment that will stand for generations, so it's worth balancing cost with quality and meaning.

Step 3: Choose Your Granite Material and Color

Granite is the gold standard for headstones because it's incredibly durable, weather-resistant, and holds fine engraving detail beautifully. Oklahoma's freeze-thaw cycles, summer heat, and UV exposure mean you need a material that can withstand the elements — and granite does exactly that.

The most popular granite colors for headstones in Oklahoma include:

• Classic Gray: Timeless, traditional, and versatile. Works with any engraving style.
• Black Granite: Elegant and modern. Provides high contrast for laser-etched portraits and detailed designs.
• Red or Mahogany Granite: Warm and distinctive. Often chosen for family monuments or companion stones.
• Blue Pearl: A premium imported granite with a subtle shimmer. Perfect for those seeking something truly unique.

Your choice of granite color is largely a matter of personal preference, family tradition, and the look you want to achieve. Our team at Gifford can show you samples and help you visualize how different colors will look with your chosen design.

Step 4: Decide Between a Flat Marker and an Upright Headstone

This is one of the most fundamental decisions you'll make, and it often comes down to a combination of cemetery rules, budget, and personal preference.

Flat markers (also called flush markers or lawn-level markers) sit level with the ground. They're less expensive, easier to maintain, and required in some cemeteries. They're ideal if you want a simple, understated tribute or if your cemetery doesn't allow upright stones.

Upright headstones stand vertically and offer more space for engraving, personalization, and visual impact. They're the traditional choice for those who want a more prominent memorial. Upright monuments can be single stones (for one person) or companion monuments (for couples), and they can include detailed carvings, portraits, or custom shapes.

If your cemetery allows both, think about what feels right for your family and how you want future generations to remember your loved one.

Step 5: Select Your Design and Personalization

Once you've chosen the size and style, it's time to personalize the headstone. This is where your loved one's story comes to life in granite.

Common elements to include:

• Names and dates: Full names, birth and death dates, and sometimes maiden names or nicknames.
• Epitaph or verse: A short phrase, Bible verse, poem, or personal message that captures their spirit.
• Symbols and images: Crosses, angels, flowers, military emblems, Masonic symbols, or custom imagery related to hobbies or professions.
• Laser-etched portraits: High-resolution photographic images etched directly into the granite.
• Custom shapes or carvings: Hearts, scrolls, open books, or fully sculptured monuments.

At Gifford Monument, we offer a free design consultation where we'll work with you to create a proof that reflects your vision. You'll see exactly what the finished headstone will look like before any fabrication begins.

Step 6: Review and Approve Your Digital Proof

Once the design is complete, we'll provide you with a detailed digital proof — a realistic mockup of the finished headstone. This is your opportunity to review every detail: spelling, dates, layout, fonts, and imagery.

Take your time with this step. Share it with family members. Make sure everything is correct. Once you approve the proof, we'll begin fabrication. Catching errors at this stage is easy and free; changing a stone after it's been engraved is costly and heartbreaking.

Gifford Monument will never rush you through this process. We want you to feel completely confident and at peace with your decision.

Step 7: Fabrication, Delivery, and Installation

After you approve the design, your headstone enters our fabrication shop in Ada, Oklahoma. Our skilled craftsmen will cut, polish, engrave, and finish the stone by hand. The typical timeline for a custom headstone is 8–12 weeks, though simple flat markers can be completed faster.

Once fabrication is complete, we'll coordinate with your cemetery to schedule delivery and installation. We handle the foundation pour (if required), secure the stone, and perform a final quality check to ensure everything is perfect.

You'll be notified when installation is complete, and you're always welcome to visit our shop in Ada or contact us with any questions throughout the process.

Choosing a Headstone in Oklahoma: You're Not Alone

Selecting a headstone is a deeply personal decision, but you don't have to navigate it alone. Gifford Monument Works has been serving Oklahoma families since 1936, and we're here to guide you every step of the way — from understanding cemetery rules and setting a budget to designing a meaningful tribute and overseeing installation.

Whether you're in Ada, Oklahoma City, Tulsa, or the Dallas-Fort Worth area, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, request a design proof, or simply ask questions. We'll treat your family with the care, respect, and attention you deserve during this difficult time.