Our Process

Explore our step-by-step process for selecting the perfect memorial, from initial consultation to final installation.

STEP 1

Meet & Plan

Our initial consultation is designed to guide you through every step of selecting and planning a meaningful memorial. During this process, we’ll discuss important considerations such as cemetery regulations, material choices, personalization options, and budget to ensure the monument reflects your loved one’s legacy and meets your family’s needs. Below are those key points to consider:

CEMETERY SPACES & REGULATIONS

  • Cemetery rules for monument size, type, material, and any additional requirements
  • Confirm the number of cemetery spaces that have been purchased and will be utilized with the memorial – as the growing popularity of cremation and the allowance of multiple cremated remains in a single space can impact the size and type of headstone permitted.

MEMORIAL DESIGN

  • Memorial Type: Traditional Upright, Slant, Bevel, Grass Marker, or Custom Design
  • Granite Color
  • Dimension: Single Marker, Companion Marker, or Custom Size
  • Design Details: Shape (traditional, custom, or unique shapes), Edge Style (polished, beveled, rough, etc.), and Additional Features (benches, vases, plaques, etc.)
  • Personalized Options: Inscription (name, dates, quotes, etc.), Font Style, Engravings (flowers, religious symbols, hobbies, etc.), Photo Integration (ceramic, laser-etched, etc.), and Custom Artwork

BUDGET

  • Determining a budget for a headstone is important because it helps narrow down options – design factors like granite color, size, engraving complexity, and additional features will influence the overall cost

RENDERINGS, ESTIMATE, & CONCLUSION

  • Once all the above factors are considered, Nelson Memorials will provide each family with a detailed cost estimate and a rough rendering of their memorial design.
  • Each of the factors listed above will influence the lead time for the installation of your memorial and this will be communicated clearly.
  • Before we can proceed with creating your monument, we’ll request a signed agreement and a 50% deposit to confirm your order.

STEP 2

Design & Create

FINAL RENDERING

  • We take all the details gathered during the initial consultation and create a precise visual representation of the memorial. Whether it includes standard design elements or fully customized artwork, our team ensures that every detail is accurately depicted. This rendering provides a clear preview of the final product, allowing for any necessary adjustments before production begins. Our goal is to deliver a memorial that faithfully reflects your vision with accuracy and craftsmanship. (CLICK HERE) to see examples of some our concept designs to their final completion.

CEMETERY COORDINATION

  • Nelson Memorials will handle all communication with the cemetery, including obtaining required permits, paying cemetery fees, and ensuring compliance with their regulations. We also work directly with the sexton to gather setting and facing information, confirm placement details, and address any additional requirements to ensure a smooth installation process.

MANUFACTURING

  • The headstone manufacturing process begins with material selection—if the chosen granite is available, we proceed immediately; otherwise, we order it and allow time for delivery. Once the material is ready, we use the approved final rendering to carefully lay out the design on the memorial. The engraving process then begins, utilizing techniques such as traditional sandblasting, laser etching, or hand-carving to precisely inscribe names, dates, and decorative elements. After engraving, the stone undergoes a thorough quality check to ensure accuracy and craftsmanship. Whenever possible, we share a photo of the finished memorial before installation, allowing for final review and peace of mind.

STEP 3

Install & Remember

Our third and final step is when our teams ensure a seamless installation on site, providing a place of solace and remembrance for generations to come.

The final phase of our service is characterized by the meticulous and respectful installation of the gravestone. This crucial step is carried out with precision and care by our dedicated teams who are committed to ensuring that the monument is securely and correctly placed at the designated site. Our objective is to create a tranquil and dignified spot that will stand as a lasting tribute for many years, offering a serene space for visitors to come and pay their respects, reflecting on memories and legacies preserved in stone.

Our Testimonials

We are Dedicated to Providing Compassionate Support to Families

Nelson Memorials did an amazing job working with me to get my stone designed and placed. They went above and beyond to get our stone placed in time for a special event. I highly recommend using them for your needs. I am very pleased with how my husband and my memorial stone turned out.
If you are looking for any information on a monument give Scott a call. He will take the time to listen to what you want and give you some amazing options. He is extremely versatile. With a background in funeral homes and caskets, Scott is not one of these people who just want to sell you a monument. Scott cares about being there for people during a difficult time and will help you create a memorial that will last generations to come!
My experience with this business was very positive and I have shared with friends and even people in my grief group. Picking out a stone after losing a spouse was an emotional experience. You don’t want to be pushed during this fragile time. Scott was helpful and knew what stone I was looking for so kept that in mind until he found what I wanted. I did a lot of shopping around and you can’t beat the price for what I got. I have included only the back of the stone for privacy reasons.
Thank you Scott for all your help!
Scott was so kind & caring to us during the most heartbreaking & unexpected time choosing a memorial for our mother and in the end we were able to walk away with a beautiful memorial. Scott is knowledgeable, accommodating, personable and worked with us, rather than pushing us to a decision and was willing to answer any questions I had. We highly recommend Scott & Nelson Memorials to anyone who may need their services!!!
The visit to Nelson Memorials Showroom was exceptional; not a high pressure sales pitch nor a disinterested representative. Scott is an excellent listener , so we had a good conversation getting to know the family history as well as our budget and hopes for the cemetery memorial to be a gift to future generations. My photograph from Norway was combined with Scott’s’ creativity to produce a beautiful rendering of the Memorial. It was perfect! So I chose to go ahead right away , feeling good about the decision and the entire process leading up to it. With wonderful craftsmanship by the staff carvers, our family’s Memorial is already in its proper place, glistening in the sun!
The experience with Scott and the Nelson Memorial was heart warming yet very professional I would recommend them for any monument needs. 5 Star in my book.
We received exceptional service from Scott. Our mothers memory will be honored with this memorial. Thank you
Scott was so wonderful to work with. He made a truly sad time in our lives less so, and we were able to walk away with a beautiful marker for our loved one. Scott will be our go-to for any future needs we may have, as he is personable, down to earth, and worked with us, rather than pushing us to a decision. I’ll cherish visiting and seeing the marker for the rest of my life.
Scott was so easy to work with and was patient with all of our questions. He truly made us feel so comfortable. We feel more confident picking out our future monument needs.
Thank you, Scott, for being so kind to me during this tough decision-making time. Scott is knowledgeable, accommodating, and was willing to answer any questions I had. I highly recommend Nelson Memorials to anyone who may need their services!!!
My husband and I were extremely pleased with Nelson Monument. The owner Chad, was a pleasure to work with he took the time to show us the different stones and is detailed minded. Our stone has been placed in a timely manner and we are very, very pleased with how it turned out.

Feel the heart warming difference with Nelson Memorials.

We want to learn more about you and your loved one. Contact us to learn more.

Get in touch

Contact Us

605.271.0334

3213 S Norton Ave
Sioux Falls, SD 57105

Our Hours

Monday – Friday
9am – 5pm

Evenings & Weekends by appointment

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