Funeral Programmes: A Thoughtful Guide
A funeral programme, often called an order of service in the UK, is a printed or digital guide to a funeral or celebration of life. It helps guests follow the proceedings and offers a lasting keepsake to remember the person who has died.
What to include
The programme can be simple or detailed, depending on the family’s wishes and the nature of the service. Common details include:
- the person’s name, photograph and dates of birth and death
- the date, time and venue of the service
- the order of the service, including readings, music, prayers or tributes
- the names of those leading the service or taking part
- a short biography, personal message or favourite quotation
- details of a wake or gathering afterwards, if appropriate
- information about flowers, charitable donations or messages of condolence
Not every programme needs to include all of these. Some families prefer a brief outline, while others choose to share more about the person’s life and the memories they cherish.
Choosing the style and format
A funeral programme can reflect the person’s character, interests and beliefs. A favourite colour, a landscape photograph or a meaningful image can make it feel personal without making it elaborate. The tone might be traditional, informal, religious or secular, guided by the wishes of the person who has died and those closest to them.
Most programmes are printed as a folded sheet or small booklet. A digital version can also be shared with people who are unable to attend in person. If the service is being streamed, consider making the programme available online in advance.
Making it clear and accessible
Guests may be unfamiliar with the venue or the customs of the service, so clear information is especially helpful. Use readable type, good contrast and straightforward wording. Check that names, dates, venues and the order of events are correct, and make sure any accessibility details—such as step-free access—are easy to find.
If the programme includes song lyrics, poems or other published material, check whether permission is needed before reproducing it. The venue, celebrant or funeral director may be able to offer guidance.
Allow time for preparation
Gathering details from family members can take time, particularly when several people are contributing photographs or memories. It is useful to appoint one person to check the final text and approve the design before printing. Ask the printer about deadlines and order a few extra copies for unexpected guests or family members who would like a keepsake.
A small tribute with lasting meaning
A funeral programme is both a practical guide and a personal memento. A few carefully chosen details can help guests feel included, honour the life being remembered and provide comfort in the days and years that follow.
Essential Tips for Crafting a Thoughtful Funeral Programme
- Include the order of service and key details.
- Check names, dates and spellings carefully.
- Choose a clear, readable typeface.
- Add a photo or personal tribute if appropriate.
- Print a few extra copies for guests.
Include the order of service and key details.
Include a clear order of service so guests know what to expect, from the welcome and readings to the music, tributes and closing words. Add key details such as the person’s full name, the date and venue, and the names of anyone leading or taking part in the service. A well-organised programme helps guests follow along and makes a thoughtful keepsake.
Check names, dates and spellings carefully.
Before printing the funeral programme, carefully check every name, date and spelling, including those in readings, song credits and personal tributes. Ask a trusted family member or friend to proofread it as well; a fresh pair of eyes can catch small errors and help ensure the keepsake is accurate.
Choose a clear, readable typeface.
Choose a clear, readable typeface so guests can follow the service details comfortably, including older people and anyone with reduced vision. Avoid overly decorative fonts for the main text, use a generous font size and leave enough space between lines. A simple, well-spaced design makes the programme easier to read and keeps the focus on the tribute.
Add a photo or personal tribute if appropriate.
Adding a photograph or personal tribute can make a funeral programme feel especially meaningful, offering guests a glimpse of the person’s life and character. Choose an image and words that feel right for the occasion—perhaps a favourite photograph, a short memory or a quotation they loved. If the family would prefer a more understated programme, it is perfectly appropriate to leave these out.
Print a few extra copies for guests.
It’s worth printing a few extra copies of the funeral programme in case more guests attend than expected or someone forgets to bring theirs. Spare copies can also be offered to people who arrive late, kept by family members as a memento, or shared with those who were unable to attend.
