Memorial commissions are a significant part of the work at Engrave Refuge, and they are the commissions that require the most care. The brief-taking process is slower, the revision rounds are open-ended, and the finished piece needs to be right in a way that other pieces do not. This article describes how we approach this work and what clients can expect.
Starting the conversation ¶
Most memorial commissions begin with an email that is not entirely sure what it is asking for. That is fine. We do not need a complete brief to start a conversation. Tell us who or what the piece is for, where it will be placed, and roughly what you would like it to say. We will ask a few questions and, from there, begin to suggest formats and materials. There is no obligation at this stage and no rush.
Finding the words ¶
The hardest part of a memorial commission is often the text. We are not writers and we do not write inscriptions for clients, but we have seen enough memorial pieces to know what tends to work and what tends to feel wrong after a few years. Short is almost always better. A name, two dates, and one line is usually more powerful than a longer passage. We will tell you honestly if we think a proposed text is too long for the material or the format.
Materials for outdoor memorial pieces ¶
For garden markers and outdoor plaques, we recommend Valongo slate or Portuguese oak. Both age in ways that feel appropriate: the slate develops a slight surface bloom, the oak deepens in colour. Neither requires the kind of maintenance that would feel burdensome to someone visiting a garden marker. For indoor memorial pieces, brass and borosilicate glass are also options. We will discuss the specific location and conditions before recommending a material.
The proofing process for memorial work ¶
We do not cut a memorial piece until the layout has been approved in writing. We send a digital proof showing the exact text, typeface, and layout at actual size. We allow as many revision rounds as the client needs, at no additional charge. Once the proof is approved, we cut the piece and send a photograph before dispatch. We have never had a memorial piece returned.
If you are considering a memorial piece, please write to us at studio@engraverefuge.com. There is no minimum spend and no obligation. We will respond within one working day.