The plaque process

At Memory Markers, the goal is to transform your ideas and feelings into bronze. With her artistic background and knowledge of the medium, Virginia will help you realize your ideas.

Getting started

Virginia is delighted to talk with you about any ideas you have, whether you have only a general idea of what you want or you have a detailed blueprint. She'll work with you to design a plaque exactly suited to your needs, and she'll let you know if your ideas exceed your budget.

Here are some design elements you can consider when imagining your plaque:

  • Possible locations: Does it need to fit within a certain space? What might the lighting be like?
  • Dimensions: How large or small do you imagine it?
  • Shapes: Plaques don't have to be rectangular!
  • Text: What would you like it to say? Do you have ideas for the lettering?
  • Colors: Virginia works with a skilled patina artist who can apply a surprisingly wide range of colors to bronze.
  • Pictures: Designs can be drawn from existing photographs, drawings, or illustrations.


Virginia can also work with cemeteries to make sure that their needs or constraints are included in the design. To browse examples of existing plaques created at Memory Markers, see the Plaques page. To inquire about creating a plaque, send an email or call (707) 579-1706.

Time

The process generally takes a minimum of eight weeks, from design to completion. The more complex the plaque, the longer the process takes.

Price

Plaque prices depend on the final size, design, and complexity of the work. The foundry and etching company charge by the square foot, so larger works naturally cost a little more, but the amount of time it takes to determine the design and the design's difficulty also affect the final price. Portraits are the most expensive feature. Trees, flowers, stars, and other simple designs are less demanding and consequently less expensive.

Prices for unique and personalized plaques are not competitive with the mass-produced variety. As you can imagine, pieces created on an assembly line from a limited set of choices are much cheaper to produce. But your piece will receive the attention and focus of the artist to exactly realize your vision and honor your subject.

Prices generally start at around $600. For example, a 4" x 6" plaque with little more than simple text would probably run about that price. Plaques up to one square foot with simple artwork generally cost between $600 to $1,000. Large plaques with portraits or intricate designsmight cost between $2,500 and $3,000.

For more information, contact Memory Markers. To see examples of plaques, check out the Plaques page.