Person holding a brochure titled '5 Things You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Headstone' in a peaceful cemetery with granite headstones in the background, including one with a family name and custom engraving

5 Things You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Headstone in Cornwall, Akwesasne & Surrounding Areas

When it comes to purchasing a headstone in Cornwall, Akwesasne, Ingleside, Long Sault, Martintown, Williamstown, Alexandria, Embrun, Moose Creek, and nearby areas, most families don’t know where to start. Whether you’re planning ahead or choosing a monument for a loved one, there are a few key things to understand to ensure the process is smooth, meaningful, and in line with local cemetery regulations.

At Brunet Monuments, we’ve been helping families for years navigate the details of headstone selection and customization. Here are the top 5 things you need to know before buying a monument:


1. Understand Cemetery By-Laws

Every cemetery has its own rules and regulations for headstones and monuments. These by-laws can include:

  • Size restrictions (single, double, family plot, or cremation monument)

  • Material guidelines (most cemeteries require granite or bronze for durability)

  • Placement requirements (flat markers vs. upright monuments)

  • Additional fees for installation or permits

Knowing these rules in advance ensures you don’t purchase a stone that isn’t permitted in your chosen cemetery. At Brunet Monuments, we work directly with the cemeteries in Cornwall, Akwesasne, Ingleside, Long Sault, and surrounding areas to ensure compliance before we begin.


2. Choose the Right Monument Size

The size of your headstone depends on:

  • The type of plot (single, double, family plot, or cremation lot)

  • Cemetery guidelines

  • Personal preference and budget

From traditional upright monuments to flat markers or cremation “condos,” we help families choose a stone that fits both the cemetery’s requirements and their vision for a lasting tribute.


3. Personalize Your Monument with Custom Engraving

A headstone is more than just a marker—it’s a reflection of a life well lived. Most stones begin with:

  • The family name in large lettering

  • The individual names of the people resting there with their birth and passing dates

We also offer custom engraving to make every monument unique. Many families choose to add:

  • Symbols of faith

  • Hobbies or passions (fishing, music, sports, etc.)

  • Special quotes or sayings

This personal touch transforms a monument into a true celebration of a loved one’s legacy.


4. Adding Names and Dates Later (Cemetery Lettering)

If a monument is placed before all family members have passed, additional names and dates can be added later. This process, called cemetery lettering, is a cost-effective and respectful way to ensure the stone remains up to date without replacing the entire monument.


5. Pre-Planning Your Monument

Many people don’t realize that you can pre-purchase a monument and have it installed before it’s needed. Pre-planning:

  • Locks in today’s pricing

  • Ensures your wishes are followed

  • Reduces the emotional burden on your family later

By selecting a monument in advance, you gain peace of mind and the ability to customize it exactly how you want.


Your Local Monument Experts

At Brunet Monuments, we proudly serve families in Cornwall, Akwesasne, Ingleside, Long Sault, Martintown, Williamstown, Alexandria, Embrun, Moose Creek, and nearby communities. We handle everything from cemetery by-law compliance to design, engraving, and installation, ensuring a seamless experience.

Whether you’re ready to design a custom headstone or simply exploring your options, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and start creating a lasting tribute.