
Creating A Memorial
Your first steps in creating a memorial:
Who is the Memorial for?
- Individual
- Companion (Husband/Wife)
- Family
Where is the Memorial going?
- Cemetery
- Park
- Building
- Other
Are there any requirements?
- Regulations on style, size or finish
- Permit fees
- Position of names
- Design requirements
Do you have anything in mind?
- Initial thoughts and expectations
Your memories and reflections?
- Important lettering & design elements you would like incorporated with your memorial?
Your budget expectations?
We Make the Process Easier and More Meaningful
Personalizing a Memory:
Life is a tapestry of memories, celebrated moments, love and sharing. Remembering and reflecting on your cherished memories provides options for personalizing your memorial. Unique designs can can be created to give a personal touch to your memorial forever. Examples of personalization are shown below to assist in your selection.

We have thousands of Precision Graphic Carving designs for you to choose from. These designs should be used on medium to dark colors. Granite is a unique natural product. Actual granite colors will vary from the photos shown.

Frequently Asked Monument Questions
The cost of a headstone in South Dakota typically ranges from $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on several key factors. The biggest cost drivers include the size of the monument, whether the granite is domestic or imported, and the type and color of granite selected.
For example, smaller flat grave markers are generally more affordable, while larger upright headstones with premium granite colors or custom designs will increase the overall cost. Additional elements like engraving, artwork, and installation can also impact the final price.
The first steps in getting a headstone start with confirming cemetery requirements, as each cemetery may have specific rules for size, style, and installation. From there, families can begin choosing the type of monument, including whether they prefer a flat grave marker or an upright headstone.
Next, you’ll select the granite type and color, along with the wording, dates, and any personalized design elements such as engraving or artwork. Once those details are finalized, the monument is designed, approved, and scheduled for production and installation.
Contact us today to begin planning a headstone that fits your needs.
The cheapest headstone option is typically a flat grave marker, which is installed flush with the ground. These are generally the least expensive because they use less material and have a simpler design compared to upright monuments.
In South Dakota, basic flat granite markers usually start around $1,500, depending on the size, granite type and color, and the amount of engraving. Simpler designs with standard granite colors and minimal wording will be the most budget-friendly, while added customization can increase the cost.
Our Work

Color: Blue Pearl
Tablet/Marker Size: 2’0×0’6×1’8
Monument Type: Upright
Base Size: 3’0×1’0×0’6

Color: Jet Black
Tablet/Marker Size: 3’0x0’6×1’8
Monument Type: Companion Upright
Base Size: 4’0x1’0x0’6

Color: Coral Blue
Monument Type: Bench
Seat: 3’0x1’2×0’4
Support: 2’8x0’8×1’2 each
Paulson Monuments
M-F: 8:00am – 4:30pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
