How Couples Can Pre-Plan a Shared Monument With Meaning
Some of the most meaningful monuments we create at McCall Monument are for couples who planned ahead together. Choosing a shared headstone is not just about logistics, it’s about creating a lasting symbol of your life, values, and love.
Many couples in Iowa are choosing to design their memorials in advance. It gives them time to reflect, personalize, and make decisions together without urgency or stress.
Here is why it matters and how we can help you create something that feels right.
Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind
When you pre-plan a shared monument, you remove uncertainty for your loved ones later. Your family will not have to make quick decisions in a time of grief. They will know your wishes were honored.
This kind of planning can also provide peace between spouses. It becomes one more way to express what mattered most in your life together.
You Have Time to Personalize Together
When couples plan ahead, they can choose:
• A favorite quote, scripture, or song lyric
• Symbols that represent shared values or passions
• Custom designs, such as hearts, books, or nature scenes
• A photo or meaningful image
• Special text spacing for future dates
This process allows you to create something that reflects your shared story, not just names and dates.
You Can Explore Companion Styles That Fit Your Life
We offer several types of companion monuments, including:
• Upright monuments with shared design and side-by-side names
• Single monoliths with both names etched on one face
• Double slants or bevel markers
• Benches with inscriptions and artwork
Each option can be customized for size, granite color, finish, and detail. We can guide you through what fits your wishes and your cemetery’s guidelines.
You Can Lock In Pricing and Design Choices Early
By planning now, you can:
• Choose a monument without seasonal rush or rising material costs
• Make sure granite colors you love are available
• Settle all cemetery-related approvals ahead of time
• Avoid future delays due to design or foundation changes
It also gives you the option to pay in advance or set aside funds specifically for the memorial.
Local Knowledge Matters in Planning
Every cemetery has its own rules. Some limit the size or type of companion monuments. Others have strict foundation or material requirements.
At McCall Monument, we have worked with cemeteries across Central Iowa for over 150 years. We know who to contact and what is allowed. That means you can plan with confidence, knowing every detail will be handled with care.
When Is the Right Time to Start?
Many couples begin the process during retirement, after moving to a new community, or while handling other estate planning details. There is no perfect timeline, just a shared decision to plan ahead, together.
Let Us Help You Design a Lasting Tribute
If you and your partner want to create a monument that reflects your life and love, we are here to help. Our team will walk you through each option, answer questions, and create a design that feels personal and peaceful.
Contact McCall Monument to schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Newton, Des Moines, Pella, or Marshalltown.
A shared monument is more than a marker.
It is a story told in stone, one that your family will cherish for generations.
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