Can You Add a Vase to an Existing Headstone?

Families often bring flowers when they visit a grave. A vase on the headstone can keep flowers safe and neat. But what if the headstone is already in place? The answer is yes—you can add a vase to many headstones. It takes the right tools, skill, and approval from the cemetery.

Why Families Add Vases

A vase is more than a holder for flowers. It is a sign of love and care. Flowers fade, but the act of placing them is a ritual. A vase keeps them upright, even in wind or rain. The NFDA (Natl. Funeral Directors Assoc.) notes that many families ask for vases years after a stone is set.

How It Is Done

A mason drills a hole in the granite base or adds a small block with space for the vase. The vase is often made of granite, bronze, or SS (stainless steel). Bronze vases last for decades, while granite vases match the stone.

Glue or epoxy is used to hold parts in place. Some cemeteries also use clamps or anchors. The CMA (Cemetry Mgmt. Assoc.) in Europe says a proper vase fitting can last 20 yrs or more.

A Real Story from Italy

In Florence, Italy, a family wanted to add a vase for fresh lilies on their father’s grave. The mason cut a neat hole in the base and set a granite vase. That was 12 yrs ago. Today, the vase is still strong. The family says it helps them honor him on each visit.

Cemetery Rules

Not every cemetry allows changes. Some sites have strict rules about headstones and extras. For safety, staff may stop families from adding weak holders that could fall. The ICCM (Institute of Cemetery and Crematorium Mgmt.) in the UK warns that poor fittings can break in 1–2 yrs. Always ask the office before you add anything.

Choices of Vases

• Granite vases – match the headstone, last long

• Bronze vases – classic look, durable

• SS vases – modern, resist rust

• Ceramic holders – less common, more fragile

Each type has pros and cons. Granite blends in, but bronze may show more detail. SS is strong but may not match old stones.

Things to Think About

• Ask the cemetry staff first (CEM staff).

• Pick a mason with exp (experience).

• Choose a vase that fits the stone style.

• Use weather-safe materils.

• Avoid quik fixes like glue from a store.

The BSM (British Stone Masons) group says proper fitting costs more at first, but saves on repairs later.

Final Thought

Yes, you can add a vase to an existing headstone. Families in Europe and around the world do this often. With the right mason, safe materils, and approval from the cemetery, a vase can hold flowers for many yrs. It becomes part of the tribte and keeps memroies alive in a gentle way.