When a loved one passes away, creating a custom headstone or bronze grave marker is one of the most heartfelt ways to honor their legacy. But many families ask us the same question:
“How long does it take to make a headstone?”
The answer depends on several factors, such as the material, the design complexity, cemetery requirements, and the company you choose. At Express Monument Company, we specialize in fast headstone production and cemetery delivery across California, offering custom headstones made from granite and bronze with exceptional turnaround times.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the full process — from idea to installation.
Step-by-Step: The Timeline to Make a Custom Headstone
1. Initial Consultation & Headstone Design (1–2 Days)
The journey begins with your vision. When you contact us at Express Monument Company, we:
Explain headstone options: bronze markers, upright granite monuments, slant markers, beveled stones, and more.
Help you choose a cemetery-approved size and style.
Gather the information for the inscription and images.
Our design team delivers a proof within 24 hours.
That’s right — same-day design is our specialty. You’ll see a realistic digital rendering of your headstone before production starts.
2. Design Approval (1–3 Days)
Once you receive the proof:
You can request changes or approve the design.
Most families approve it within 1–2 days.
Upon approval, we move directly into the production phase.
We stay in touch throughout the process to ensure everything feels right and personal.
3. Production: How Long Does It Take to Make a Headstone?
Bronze Headstones (8–10 Weeks)
Bronze markers are cast in specialized foundries. The process includes:
Custom lettering
Color finishes
Sealing onto granite bases
This process usually takes 8 to 10 weeks.
Granite Headstones (6–8 Weeks)
Granite monuments may take longer due to:
Stone sourcing (especially for rare colors)
Engraving
Polishing and shaping
Custom elements like portraits, religious symbols, or sculpted accents may extend the production timeline slightly.
4. Delivery and Installation at the Cemetery (1–2 Days)
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Express Monument Company is our express delivery service. Once the headstone is ready:
We contact the cemetery directly to coordinate placement.
We handle all paperwork and installation logistics.
Delivery often happens within 24 to 48 hours after production.
We frequently deliver to cemeteries like:
Rose Hills Memorial Park
Forest Lawn – Glendale, Hollywood Hills, Long Beach
Bellevue Memorial Park
And more throughout California and nearby states
What Can Delay a Headstone?
While our team works fast, certain elements may delay the process:
Material shortages, especially rare granite colors
Design complexity, like photos, 3D elements, or multiple languages
Cemetery permits or installation requirements
Weather conditions, especially for on-site installations
Family response time for approving designs
We recommend ordering a headstone as soon as possible after burial to avoid long wait times.
⏳ Typical total time: from 2 to 8 weeks, depending on material and design.
Why Families Choose Express Monument Company for Headstones
24-Hour Custom Designs
In-house production & fast casting
Experienced in cemetery rules across California
Responsive, caring support every step of the way
Delivery to Rose Hills, Forest Lawn & more
We know that families are looking not only for beauty and quality, but also for speed, trust, and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I order a headstone after burial?
You can start right away. We often begin the design process within a few days of the service.
Do you offer rush services?
Yes. We provide expedited bronze marker production and priority granite engraving based on availability.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait to Honor Their Legacy
Time matters — both in grief and in commemoration. At Express Monument Company, we ensure that your custom headstone is designed, produced, and delivered with the speed and dignity your loved one deserves.
📞 Call today: 626-360-1486
📩 Request your quote
🌐 Serving Los Angeles, Pasadena, Long Beach, Riverside, and more