Local couple creates custom monument business

by Michele Collins

Mark and Lauren Loboda, of Hudson, have opened a business called Loboda Monuments, a company offering custom monuments.

“Our mission is to provide you with a monument that perfectly reflects the life and spirit of your loved one,” according to Lauren, who is president of the company. “We believe in a hands-on approach, working closely with you through every step of the design and creation process to ensure your vision comes to life exactly as you imagined.”

Lauren said that what separates Loboda Monuments from other similar businesses is the couple’s investment in learning about the families who are purchasing a monument.

“We spend time getting to know the families and asking about their loved ones, so that the final memorial we create is specific to that person, so that it honors their loved one’s life,” she said.

Lauren and Mark – a Hudson police officer who works on the design and sales side of the business – said they started the company to be a source of comfort for grieving families.

“We didn’t really start out saying we want a monument company, but after researching businesses, and really looking at the need in our community, we decided to open a monument business on Ravenna Street in Hudson,” Lauren said.

The couple pride themselves on the quality of the materials used for their business, including crafting each monument from the finest granites, marbles and other durable materials to withstand the test of time, she explained.

Lauren added that another thing she and Mark do that most monument companies do not is walking around a cemetery with a client to ease their decision-making process.

“Sometimes we meet the client at the cemetery they will be using to lay their family member to rest,” said Lauren. “We look at other monuments, talk about stone, types and colors, even fonts, and we determine what our clients like and don’t like.”

After meeting with a client, the couple go back to their office and create something unique and custom for each client.

“Mark works with the design, he shares the family’s likes and dislikes, and then we come back with designs for the client,” Lauren said. “Understanding that each life is unique, we offer comprehensive customization options incorporating personal symbols, inscriptions and images that truly represent your loved one’s legacy.”

Cashmir Designs, a subgroup of the company reflecting Mark’s middle name, creates designs for columbaria, benches and vases in addition to grave markers.

“We really want to be the go-to company in our community,” said Lauren. “We know so many people in and around Hudson, and we want you to feel like when you are talking with us, you are talking with a friend. We want you to feel like you are comforted by a friend, who understands how important it is to get your loved one’s monument just right.”

Photo Caption: Mark and Lauren Loboda operate Loboda Monuments out of the former Ohio Organics shop on Ravenna Street.