Frequently asked questions

Fifteen honest answers, grouped into three sections. If we have not answered your question, write to us — we read every message.

The plaque itself

What is the plaque made of?

Marine-grade 316 stainless steel. The QR code is laser-engraved into the metal, not printed on top, so it will not smudge or peel.

How big is it?

2 x 2 inches. Discreet enough to feel like part of the headstone, large enough that a phone reads it cleanly.

How does it attach?

A marine-grade adhesive on the back. It bonds in under five minutes to granite, limestone, marble, slate, and concrete. It is designed to be permanent, but if you ever need to move it we can talk you through a clean removal.

Will it survive Irish winters?

It is made for it. We chose marine-grade 316 stainless steel because it is the grade used for boat fittings on the Atlantic coast — it resists salt, frost, and constant wet. We have had plaques out in west of Ireland weather since we started and have seen no change in the engraving.

Will the QR code still work in twenty years?

The code is laser-cut into stainless steel, so the physical mark itself is not going anywhere. QR codes have been readable by phone cameras for over two decades and are a widely used open standard. The web page the code points to is hosted by us. What we can and cannot promise about that hosted page — and how to download and keep your own copy — is set out on our Looking After Your Memorial page.

The memorial page

What does the memorial page look like?

A calm, single-column page with their photograph at the top, the years they lived, a short biography, and as many photos and stories as you would like to add.

How long does it take to set up?

About ten minutes on a phone, if you have a photograph and a few sentences ready. There is no rush — you can do it the day the plaque arrives, or weeks later, and you can keep adding to it.

Can more than one person edit the page?

Yes. You can share the edit link with siblings or other family members. We are also happy to help families coordinate if it gets complicated — write to us.

Is the page private?

It does not appear in Google search, and it does not have your name on it unless you put it there. Anyone who scans the code on the plaque can read it, which is the point — a memorial visitors cannot reach is not a memorial. If you would prefer a password-protected version, write to us and we can arrange it.

Can I download a copy of everything?

Yes, at any time and at no charge. Ask us and we will send you a complete archive — every photograph and video at full resolution, every story — as a folder that opens in any web browser with no internet connection needed. We recommend every family keep their own copy.

What if I want to take it down later?

Write to us and we will take it down, normally within one working day, and confirm in writing.

Ordering, shipping, refunds, and us

When will my plaque arrive?

Orders are made to order and dispatched with An Post. Estimated timings are on our Shipping Information page. Delivery estimates are not guaranteed.

What if it arrives damaged?

Contact us with your order number and we will put it right. Your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2022 apply in full.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes — within 14 days of placing the order, under EU consumer law, as long as we have not yet engraved your plaque. Because each plaque is personalised, once engraving has begun that right no longer applies, but write to us and we will do what we can. See our Refund Policy for the detail.

Do you ship outside Ireland?

Not yet. Cuimhne Code currently ships across the Republic of Ireland only. If you are in Northern Ireland, the UK, or further afield, write to us — we are working on it.

Who are you, exactly?

A small business based in Westport, Co. Mayo. The same hands that engrave your plaque answer your emails. You can read more about us on the About page.