Decorating a Gravesite

When visiting a loved one’s gravesite, it is not uncommon for your family to decorate the plot. There are a number of different ways that you can add to the decor of your loved one’s plot, and personalize them to honor your loved one. Many families choose to decorate for holidays, anniversaries, or birthdays.

Flowers

Flowers are the most common way that families beautify a gravesite. Some families will take a floral wreath or a potted plant to the gravesite with them, but a bouquet is also common. You can also ask the cemetery to plant a small flowering shrub near the plot, depending on their regulations. Be sure to check with the cemetery before bringing anything more permanent. 

Seasonal Decor

Many families like to prepare seasonal decorations for a gravesite during the holidays. Wreaths, poinsettias, or grave blankets are customary during the winter holidays. Pumpkins and Jack O’Lanterns can brighten up your loved one’s resting place in the fall. 

Lighting

Small solar-powered lighting options can illuminate your loved one’s gravesite. Some companies create ground lights specifically for burial grounds. Otherwise, many home improvement or gardening supply stores may carry solar lights that can be used instead.

Art and Statues

Painted stones, small religious statues, and other little art pieces can be a good way to brighten up your loved one’s resting space. Consider a small statue of their patron saint or a little cairn of colorful rocks. It can be a nice project to paint small stones with your children. Make sure to use weather-proof paint if doing the project yourself, otherwise the colors will fade. If buying a statuette, make sure that it is meant for the outdoors, and is weather-proof and sun-proof.

Religion

Consider looking towards the religious traditions of your loved one. Many people of the Christian faith will leave rosaries or crosses by the grave. For those of the Jewish faith, small stones are common decorations for graves.

Stuffed or Stone Animals

Small stuffed animals or stone statues of animals are not uncommon for burial decor. Consider bringing a small stuffed animal to leave at the grave. For something more permanent, a stone statuette of a favorite animal is a good choice.

Sports Paraphernalia

Many people are very dedicated to their sports teams. It is common to decorate a gravesite with decorations from a favorite sports team. Consider smaller souvenirs or trinkets with team logos. Alternatively, some florists can offer arrangements that feature team colors or logos.

Honoring Veterans

If your loved one was a veteran, a small flag or branch marker can be a lovely addition to their burial site. It is common for volunteers to place American flags at the graves of veterans during holidays such as Memorial Day.

Working with The Cemetary

It is important to contact the cemetery before placing any decorations. Learn the rules regarding object placement. This can include seasonal restrictions, clean up times, and space restrictions. It is especially important to inquire about permanent or semi-permanent decorations; and the rules regarding them.

Matthew Funeral Home specializes in floral arrangements and memorial decor that is ideal for gravesite decor. Visit our gift shop or talk with one of our floral specialists for more information and ideas.

For almost 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.