Types of Plaques & Common Placements

Different types of plaques serve different purposes with location and intent being wayfinders. That said, here are the some of most common types and placements:

Memorial Plaques

• Cemetery or mausoleum plaques: You’ll find these types of plaques mounted on headstones, grave markers, or mausoleum niches.
• Garden plaques: Often on the smaller side, these plaques can usually be found mounted on stakes, tucked in flowerbeds or adorning landscaped areas.
• Bench plaques: These tend to be metal to help withstand the elements as they are attached to park or garden benches to honor an individual or individuals.
• Wall plaques: These can be displayed indoors or outdoors. You’ll often see them in community centers, churches, or schools.

Dedication Plaques

• Building plaques: These plaques are mounted on the exterior or lobby of notable public places like schools, hospitals, libraries, and civic buildings, among others.
• Community plaques: Found in parks, trails, bridges, or recreational spaces.
• Donor recognition plaques: To acknowledge contributions, these plaques are popular in hospitals, universities, and nonprofits.

Pet Memorial Plaques

• Found in family gardens, pet cemeteries, or indoor spaces (e.g., fireplace mantles, bookshelves, etc.).
• These plaques are usually smaller and feature wording that reflects the special, unique bond between owner and pet.
• These types of plaques often include images, such as paw prints, pet silhouettes, or even photos.

Specialty Plaques

• Military/veteran plaques: These plaques are unique in that they tend to feature official seals, unit emblems, or patriotic imagery.
• Historical markers: These plaques serve an educational purpose, informing communities about heritage or historic sites.

Placement Guidance

Prior to mounting or placing plaques, be sure to check regulations. Locations like cemeteries will often allow this, but the size needs to fit certain requirements you’ll want to know before you order. Beyond that, placement in public spaces almost always requires permission from local authorities.

Beyond regulations and permissions, prior to placement, you will also want to consider:

• visibility
• weather exposure
• accessibility

Materials & Durability

The material of a plaque affects not only its look and feel but also its lifespan. Here’s a breakdown of common choices:

• Bronze: One of the most popular options for memorial and dedication plaques, bronze is a timeless material, prized for its durability, particularly for how well it holds up to a variety of different weather conditions. For that reason, it’s often a popular choice for cemeteries or civic dedications. You can keep it shiny with regular polishing.
• Brass: Treasured for its warm golden appearance, brass is another durable material. Like Bronze, if you are considering brass for an outdoor plaque, the finish will require regular upkeep to maintain its appearance.
• Aluminum: Ideal for indoor memorial plaques, aluminum has many valuable characteristics. It’s lightweight. It’s affordable. It’s rust-resistant. It’s even offered in anodized finishes.
• Stainless steel: Offering a look that’s sleeker and more modern than other materials discussed here, stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion. 
• Granite or stone: Almost exclusively used for outdoor memorials and cemeteries, granite and stone are extremely durable. They are also very heavy, meaning they’ll want to be placed once and not moved again. Because it’s a natural material, it tends to blend nicely with outdoor environments. 
• Wood or acrylic: If you are set on an indoor display of a plaque, wood or acrylic make good choices. Further, they are among the most affordable and customizable materials. While you can display them outdoors, they aren’t as durable as other materials on the list and would only be recommended for short-term dedications if outdoor display is non-negotiable.
  

Pro Tip: For outdoor dedication plaques or memorials, choose weather-resistant materials like bronze, granite, or stainless steel. For indoor display, lighter and more affordable options like acrylic or wood may be ideal.

Memorial and Dedication Plaque Design & Personalization Options

While a great variety of options mean plaques can be as elaborate as you choose, too many options can sometimes be confusing. To help steer you in the right direction, you should remember that the design should reflect the person, pet, or event being honored while ensuring clarity and readability. Good design really strikes a balance between expression and pragmatic considerations that include visibility, durability, and space for text.

To that end, let’s look at considerations to keep in mind when designing and personalizing memorial plaques or dedication plaques.

Layout & Lettering

• Centered text is the most common approach as it naturally creates a balanced, formal look. It works particularly well for memorial plaques that prioritize simplicity and dignity.
• Left-aligned layouts tend to work best for plaques with extended text. This layout is most common on dedication plaques that include quotes or organizational acknowledgments.
• Engraved lettering is the opposite of raised lettering. The letters are actually cut into the surface. This makes for strong contrast, which is particularly useful for outdoor dedication plaques where readability from a distance really matters

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Pro tip: Select a lettering size that will be appropriate to the plaque’s placement. For instance, small text may be appropriate for a close-view garden plaque; larger lettering, though, is necessary for wall-mounted or public-space plaques. PlaqueMaker’s in-house graphic designers can ensure your text and art fit your plaque perfectly.

Fonts & Finishes

• Serif fonts (i.e., those with little “feet” at the ends of letters) convey a sense of tradition and formality. For this reason, they are commonly used for memorial plaques or military/veteran tributes.
• Sans-serif fonts (clean, modern lines, no “feet”) improve readability from a distance and fit contemporary or minimalist designs quite well.
• Polished finishes create an elegant and refined appearance that is wonderfully suited for indoor display, such as in lobbies or churches. In an outdoor setting, polished surfaces can cause glare when in direct sunlight.
• Matte or textured finishes diffuse light, making them easier to read in sunny or bright outdoor settings. To level up, textured backgrounds with raised lettering also give visual depth, improving legibility and style.

Symbols & Imagery

Adding imagery can personalize a plaque, strengthening its connection to the honoree or purpose. Here is some common imagery often featured on memorial plaques and dedication plaques:

• Religious icons. Common religious icons include crosses, Stars of David, crescents, or lotuses. These images, in particular, offer spiritual resonance.
• Military seals, civic emblems, or organizational logos. This type of imagery lends an air of authority and official recognition, which is ideal for dedication plaques tied to institutions.
• Pet-themed symbols. Paw prints, silhouettes, or custom personalized artwork honor our animal companions in a genuine and heartfelt way.
• Etched or UV-printed photographs. Because of the detail, this option allows for a direct likeness of the honoree to be displayed. Etched black-and-white images create a timeless look. UV printing allows for full-color photos with lifelike detail.

Shapes & Sizes

From a distance, plaque shapes and sizes are the first thing people will notice. It’s worth thinking through what that means and what your options are.

• Rectangular plaques have long been, and remain, the most traditional and versatile option for plaques as they are suitable for nearly any placement and situation.
• Ovals, hearts, shields, or scroll shapes certainly add character and offer a deeper level of personalization. Memorial and dedication plaques in these shapes definitely stand out.
• Custom shapes are often chosen for specialized organizational dedications, which can include plaques shaped like state outlines, building silhouettes, or corporate emblems.
• Scale matters: Just as lettering size matters, so does plaque size and scale. For instance, a 4" x 6" garden plaque requires minimal wording and a clean design. In contrast, a large 24" x 36" donor wall plaque may incorporate several elements, including names, logos, and decorative borders, for example.

Color Accents

If you are considering adding color to your dedication or memorial plaque, there are a handful of options to explore.

• Multi-color UV printing really opens the door to more creative and contemporary designs, as it allows photographs, gradients, or even colorful logos to be reproduced in great detail.

Pro Tip: If you are unsure about any design or personalization measure, start simple. A clean layout, with an legible font, and a brief, heartfelt message often carries more sentiment than an overly complex design. Also, adding too many symbols or decorative elements can really reduce readability. (Think of a car with 15 bumper stickers.) Busy design also distracts from your plaque’s primary purpose, which is honoring and remembering.

Wording for Memorial & Dedication Plaques

Finding the right words can often be the most challenging part of designing a memorial or dedication plaque. There is a delicate balance of brevity and meaning; it needs to be brief enough to fit within a limited space, but heartfelt enough to capture the genuine spirit of the honoree or event. Well-done wording ensures your plaque is readable and personal.

Core Structure for Wording

The majority of plaque inscriptions follow a simple structure:

1. The Opening phrase. Sets the tone and introduces the dedication.

• In Loving Memory
• Dedicated to
• Honoring the Life of
• With Gratitude
  
  

2. The Name of the honoree. This means the full name, including middle name or initials, whichever is preferred.

3. Dates. For memorial plaques, this would mean birth and death years or even full dates if full dates will fit. For dedication plaques, this would be the date of dedication or project completion.

4. A personal message or quote. A short tribute, scripture, or perhaps even an inspirational line that acts as a reflection of the honoree’s values, personality, or contribution.

Wording Examples for Memorial Plaques and Dedication Plaques

Sometimes, all you need to get you started is a few examples. To that end, here are some simple, timeless examples you can use or use for inspiration.

Memorial Plaque Wording Examples

• “In Loving Memory of Daniel A. Mitchell, 1951–2012. Forever in Our Hearts.”
• “Remembering Sarah Clare Day, A Beloved Mother and Teacher, 1945–2017.”
• “Gone but Never Forgotten – James E. Bootz, 1930–2023.”

Dedication Plaque Wording Examples

• “This community park is dedicated to Sylvester Lockett, whose generosity and vision made it possible.”
• “Dedicated to Jonathan Delinski, whose commitment to education inspired generations.”
• “In honor of the donors whose support built this library.”

Pet Memorial Plaque Wording Examples

• “Roxy, Loyal Friend and Companion, 2016–2022. Forever Loved.”
• “In Memory of Gus – Our Faithful Companion, 2002–2013.”
• “Mercedes – A True Friend Who Left Paw Prints on Our Hearts.”

Wording Tips for Dedication and Memorial Plaques at a Glance

We’ve talked about wording structure and looked at some examples. Here, then, are some wording tips to keep in your pocket as you are thinking about wording.

• Short and simple. Try for no more than 20–30 words. When you get past 30 words, you may require a larger plaque or smaller fonts (which can affect readability).
• Reflect the honoree’s personality. What words come to mind when you think of this person? Lighthearted? Formal? Spiritual? Practical? Let those words be your guide so the wording matches their character.
• Add a defining detail. A phrase like “Esteemed Teacher” or “Veteran of the U.S. Air Force” gives context and can make a plaque more personal.
• Collaborate. Put out a call to family members, colleagues, or community leaders who may know or have known the honoree for suggestions for wording that they feel might best capture the essence of the tribute.
• Be selective with quotes or scripture. Opt for text that is timeless and resonates with the honoree’s life. Examples include:
• “Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day.”
• “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1)
• “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” – Thomas Campbell
• Verify accuracy. This cannot be overstated. Verify spelling of names, titles, and dates carefully; errors can be costly and emotionally painful. Double check. Then triple check.
• Consider the setting. For public dedication plaques, as an example, formal and professional wording is most appropriate. For personal memorials, however, warmth and intimacy work very well.

Wording Guidance by Plaque Type

• Memorial plaques: Place focus on love, remembrance, and legacy. Keep the tone respectful and timeless.
• Dedication plaques: Place emphasis on gratitude, recognition, and contribution. Inclusion of the project or institution name is very common.
• Pet memorial plaques: Wording can be heartfelt, lighthearted, or even playful, depending on the unique relationship shared.

Pro Tip: Remember that the words you decide upon will be read for years to come. So, take your time, gather input, and don’t rush the process just so it’s done. A well-written inscription ensures a plaque truly honors the memory or contribution it represents.

Installation Options

• Wall Mounting
• Perfect for buildings, donor walls, and indoor display.
• Usually secured with screws, bolts, or anchors depending upon what is appropriate to the wall material (e.g., brick, stone, drywall, or wood).
• For outdoor wall mounting, use weather-resistant hardware to help prevent rust or eventual loosening over time.
• Pro tip: Ensure the plaque is mounted at eye level for maximum visibility.
• Ground Stakes
• Commonly used for garden plaques, outdoor memorial plaques, or pet memorial markers.
• Stakes are directly inserted into the soil, which allows plaques to be positioned near plants, trees, pathways, or any number of other areas.
• To prevent corrosion, opt for stakes made of powder-coated aluminum or stainless steel.
• Pro tip: Check periodically that stakes remain upright, especially in soft soil or after storms.
• Pedestals
• Provide a sense of prominence for outdoor dedication plaques in parks, memorial gardens, or even civic spaces.
• Pedestals provide elevation for plaques, making them more noticeable and accessible for public viewing.
• The option of metal or stone finishes can complement your chosen plaque material.
• Installation is often permanent, which requires professional anchoring into a concrete or stone base.
• Bench or Tree Mounting
• Bench plaques are commonly fastened directly into the wood or metal of the bench via screws or rivets
• To avoid damage to trees, tree plaques are usually mounted on posts near the tree rather than attached to the bark.

DIY vs Professional Plaque Installation

Installation is either handled by professionals or skilled DIY-ers. Knowing the benefits of each can help you decide the option that works best for you.

• Do it Yourself (DIY) Installation
• Smaller plaques designed for indoor walls, gardens, or private property can usually be handled with basic tools (screwdriver, drill, level).
• DIY is the more affordable avenue and it offers families literal hands-on involvement in the tribute.
• Be sure to carefully follow supplier instructions to avoid possible damage to the plaque or mounting surface.
  
  
• Professional Installations
• This option is recommended for large / heavy plaques, public installations, and for plaques mounted on stone or masonry.
• Professional installation ensures your plaque is level, secure, and compliant with local or organizational regulations.
• Some public spaces (e.g., parks, universities, municipal buildings) actually require certified installers and/or specific hardware.

Maintenance by Material

As mentioned earlier in this guide, different materials require different types of care. Let’s take a little deeper look at a variety of different materials so that you know, in advance, which materials will best suit your needs, particularly with regards to maintenance.

• Bronze/Brass/Copper
• These materials, because of their elemental properties, naturally oxidize to a greenish patina over the. While some prefer this naturally-aged look, while others prefer regular polishing to maintain the original shine.
• If you opt to polish, be sure to use a non-abrasive metal polish and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals as they can often damage protective coatings.
• Stainless Steel/Aluminum
• These make a great low-maintenance option. Cleaning is simple with just mild soap, water, and a soft cloth.
• Because of their shiny properties, you’ll want to make sure you rinse thoroughly to avoid streaks.
• Wood
• These are really best suited to indoor use because they are more vulnerable to wear in outdoor settings. If you opt for outdoor mounting, wood plaques will require sealing with a weather-resistant finish to prevent warping or rotting.
• When opting for outdoor mounting, avoid placing plaques directly in soil or in prolonged contact with water. (A weather-resistant finish can only withstand so much.)
• Indoor wood plaques simply need dusting and occasional polishing–perhaps to mark an anniversary every year.
• Granite/Stone
• These are extremely durable options and, as a result, don’t require much in the way of maintenance. Just rinse with clean water and scrub gently with a soft brush to remove any accrued dirt or moss.
• You’ll want to avoid pressure washing, which can damage engravings.
• If you have a polished granite plaque, periodic sealing can help maintain its luster over time.

Environmental Considerations

Outdoor climates can vary widely requiring different considerations based on where your memorial or dedication plaque will be placed if you choose to display outdoors.

•  Climate & Exposure
• In snowier climates, it's best to opt for frost-resistant materials like granite or bronze.
• In areas with a lot of sun, matte finishes improve readability and greatly reduce glare.
• Long-Term Care
• Each year, inspect your outdoor plaques for any signs of loosening hardware, fading, or even corrosion.
• Regularly trim vegetation back to prevent covering (or possibly damaging) plaques in gardens or parks.
• For public plaque installations, consider arranging a maintenance plan with the organization responsible for the display (e.g., city, school, or nonprofit).

Proper installation and regular care for your plaque is like paying tribute over and over again.

Common Settings for Memorial and Dedication Plaques

As you know by now, memorial plaques and dedication plaques come in a variety of forms and are placed in many different types of settings. Here are some of the most common ways we’ve seen them used:

• Memorial benches: Installed in city parks and featuring a simple plaque honoring a loved one.
• Tree plaques: Dedicated to community members and leaders and displayed in botanical gardens or memorial groves.
• Donor walls: Showcasing supporters and commonly placed in hospitals, universities, and nonprofits.
• Building dedications: Displayed at the entrance of libraries, churches, or civic centers.
• Pet memorial plaques: Placed in gardens or decorative landscaping with paw print icons and / or a heartfelt wording.
• Veterans’ memorials: Here you’ll find civic plaques featuring military insignia and service details.
• Historical markers: Displayed to share community heritage and educate future generations about the historical relevance of certain locations.

Hopefully, these examples illustrate how plaques can serve as personal tributes and as shared community touchstones.

The Ordering & Proofing Process

So you’ve decided you’d like to order a memorial plaque or dedication plaque from PlaqueMaker.com. The ordering process is simple and customer-focused.

1. Choose plaque type and material.
2. Submit your text and artwork. Most products include free engraving with unlimited text.
3. Receive a free digital proof within 1 business day.
4. Review proof and approve or request changes. Customers get up to 4 free revisions; additional revisions come at a cost of $10 each.
5. Finalize production. Vector logos required for UV printing; resetting logos may involve a small fee.
6. Shipping.

• Free shipping on orders of $99+ in the contiguous U.S for most products. Orders shipped via skid shipping will require an additional shipping fee. PlaqueMaker.com will cover the first $100 of the skid shipping cost, though.
• Standard delivery up to 10 business days.
• Expedited options available via UPS.

1. Guarantee: All products include a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.

We have tailored this process to ensure peace of mind, allowing the opportunity to correct mistakes before the engraving process begins.

In Conclusion

Memorial and dedication plaques are enduring tributes that preserve stories, celebrate lives, and honor contributions for future generations. When you choose the right type, material, design, and wording, you can be sure your plaque reflects the values and legacy of the person or event being remembered. While the process may feel emotional at times, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming by any means. With clear guidance and some support, creating a memorial or dedication plaque can actually be simple, affordable, and very rewarding. 

At PlaqueMaker.com, we make it incredibly easy to order dedication and memorial plaques by offering free engraving with unlimited text, free digital proofs within one business day, four free revisions per order, and affordable shipping backed by a 90-day guarantee. Ready to get started? Explore PlaqueMaker.com’s expanded range of memorial plaques, dedication plaques, pet memorial plaques, and other outdoor dedication options today. Then create a tribute that is meaningful and preserves memories for generations to come.