Can You Change a Headstone After It’s Been Installed?
Headstones can be updated after installation for many reasons, such as correcting a date, adding a spouse’s name, or including a photo or inscription. This post explains what can be changed, how the process works, and what families can expect with costs and timing.
Creative Ways to Honor a Loved One’s Personality in Their Memorial
A memorial can be more than a name and date. It can reflect the passions, values, and stories that made someone unique. From custom shapes and personal inscriptions to symbols, portraits, and engraved art, there are many ways to create a headstone that feels truly personal. This post shares creative ideas for designing a lasting tribute.
Supporting a Loved One Through Grief: Simple Acts That Matter
Supporting someone through grief doesn’t require perfect words or big gestures. Small, consistent acts of care — listening, offering practical help, and remembering special dates — can make a lasting difference for grieving families.
How Long Does It Take to Install a Headstone in Iowa?
Families often ask how long it takes for a headstone to be installed in Iowa. The answer depends on factors like design choices, weather, cemetery rules, and stone availability.
Top Questions to Ask Your Cemetery Before Installing a Headstone
Before placing a headstone, it’s important to understand your cemetery’s rules and requirements. From size and material restrictions to installation fees and maintenance policies, asking the right questions upfront can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth process.
Pre-Need vs At-Need Monuments What’s the Difference?
When it comes to choosing a memorial, timing matters. In this guide, we explain the difference between pre-need and at-need monuments, and how each option supports families during different stages of planning and grief. Discover which approach brings the most peace of mind for you or your loved ones.
How to Plan a Memorial Bench or Plaque for a Public Space
Memorial benches and plaques offer a lasting way to honor someone’s life in places that matter, from local parks to community trails. This guide walks you through the steps of choosing the right location, understanding requirements, and creating a tribute that brings comfort to all who pass by.
What’s the Difference Between a Headstone, Marker, and Monument?
Choosing the right memorial can feel overwhelming, especially with terms like headstone, marker, and monument often used interchangeably. In this guide, we break down the differences so you can make a thoughtful, informed decision that honors your loved one’s legacy.
The Healing Power of Memorial Traditions
Memorial traditions offer more than remembrance, they bring comfort, connection, and a path toward healing. From visiting a loved one’s grave to creating new rituals that reflect their life, these practices help us move through grief with meaning and grace. Discover how honoring traditions can provide peace for today and legacy for tomorrow.
Understanding Headstone Materials: Why We Choose Granite Over Marble
Granite offers unmatched strength, beauty, and durability—especially in Iowa’s challenging climate. Learn why McCall Monument relies on granite, not marble, for lasting memorials.
Memorial Planning Checklist for Iowa Families: A Step-by-Step Guide to Designing a Lasting Tribute
Planning a memorial is about more than stone—it’s about preserving a story. This step-by-step checklist helps Iowa families design a meaningful tribute with clarity and care.
The Role of Font Style in Headstone Design
Font style plays a powerful role in headstone design, influencing both readability and emotional tone. Discover how to choose the right typeface to honor your loved one’s memory with dignity and clarity.
Symbols of Freedom: Patriotic Imagery in Monument Design
Explore the powerful meaning behind patriotic symbols like flags, eagles, and military emblems in monument design. This post honors the legacy of veterans and celebrates national pride through thoughtful memorial elements.
McCall Monument Blog
Insights & Guidance on Memorials and Headstones
Welcome to the McCall Monument Blog — a space dedicated to guiding families through the process of memorializing loved ones with care, compassion, and clarity. Here, we share insights on headstone design, cemetery memorial care, tribute inspiration, and thoughtful planning advice. Whether you're beginning the journey or honoring a legacy, our family-owned Iowa company is here to support you every step of the way.