Why Early Planning Matters: Start Your Memorial Design This Winter
Choosing a memorial is one of the most personal decisions a family can make. And while it may not feel like the right time during the colder months, winter is one of the best seasons to begin the process — especially in Iowa.
At McCall Monument, we often remind families: starting early means fewer delays, more options, and peace of mind when spring arrives.
1. Iowa Winters Give You Time to Plan Before Spring Installation
Many cemeteries across Iowa do not allow installation during the winter due to frozen ground. But that does not mean families have to wait.
In fact, this is the ideal time to work on the design by choosing stone color, layout, symbols, and inscriptions. By planning now, you will be ready for placement as soon as the ground thaws in early spring.
2. Avoid Seasonal Backlogs by Getting Ahead
Once warmer weather returns, installation requests increase quickly. Families who wait until April or May to start designing often face longer turnaround times.
When you begin in January or February, you avoid the rush and give your family more flexibility with scheduling and granite availability.
3. Winter Allows for Thoughtful Family Conversations
Slower months often give families more time together, especially after the holidays. That can make it easier to have conversations about:
- What to include on the memorial
- Favorite quotes, scriptures, or symbols
- If a companion stone or bench is right
- Cemetery guidelines that may affect design
Planning during winter gives space for decisions without pressure.
4. More Time Means More Personalization
If you want a heart shaped monument, a farming symbol, a ceramic photo, or a custom quote, the best designs are not rushed.
Taking time this winter allows for:
- Sketching out ideas
- Reviewing design proofs
- Getting approvals from family and cemetery staff
- Adding custom artwork or specialty engravings
All of this results in a memorial that reflects your loved one with care and meaning.
5. Stay Ahead of Price Increases
Prices on granite, engraving, and installation often shift each year. Families who start early in the calendar year may lock in current pricing and avoid spring rate increases that some suppliers or cemeteries apply.
What We Are Seeing at McCall Monument
Across our five Iowa locations, we see a growing number of families beginning the planning process in January. These early planners often experience:
- Faster installation timelines
- Less stress as spring approaches
- Stronger satisfaction with the final design
They also have more time to ask questions, understand cemetery rules, and make decisions they feel good about.
Need Help Getting Started?
If you are thinking about creating a headstone, bench, or marker, now is the time. Our team is here to walk with you through each step.
We work directly with cemeteries in Newton, Des Moines, Pella, Marshalltown, and surrounding towns to make sure every memorial is placed respectfully and according to local guidelines.
Contact us for a Winter Planning Consultation
Contact McCall Monument or visit one of our local offices to begin the process.
A Winter of Planning Becomes a Spring of Remembrance
Start now. Create a memorial that tells their story, with no rushed decisions.
Have Questions or Ready to Begin?
We're here to help you honor your loved one with care and dignity. Reach out to our compassionate team for guidance or to schedule a consultation.
Contact McCall Monument