How to Make a Simple Funeral Program: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Losing a loved one is never easy, and planning a funeral can feel overwhelming. A funeral program serves as a heartfelt keepsake for attendees while guiding them through the service. This guide will walk you through how to make a simple funeral program—covering design, content, printing, and personalization—so you can create a beautiful tribute with ease.

How to Make a Simple Funeral Program: A Step-by-Step Guide for a Meaningful Memorial

What Is a Funeral Program?

A funeral program (also called a memorial service program or order of service) is a printed pamphlet given to attendees. It typically includes:

• Cover: Name, photo, birth/death dates

• Order of Service: Schedule of events (e.g., prayers, eulogies, music)

• Biography: A brief life story

• Acknowledgments: Thank-you notes, poems, or scriptures

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Create a Funeral Program?

1. Helps Guests Follow the Service – Provides structure for the ceremony.

2. Serves as a Keepsake – Loved ones can take it home as a memorial.

3. Honors Their Legacy – Personalizes the farewell with photos and stories.

Step 1: Choose a Simple Funeral Program Template

Using a pre-designed template saves time while ensuring a polished layout. Here are the best options:

1. Bi-Fold (Single Sheet, Folded in Half)

• Best for: Budget-friendly, easy-to-print designs

• Layout:

  • Front: Name, photo, dates

  • Inside Left: Service order

  • Inside Right: Biography

  • Back: Thank-you message

2. Single-Page (Unfolded, One-Sided Print)

• Best for: Quick printing (home or local print shop)

• Layout: All details in one condensed format.

Where to Find Free Templates:

• My Marketplace (Customizable, user-friendly designs)

• And this collection

• Or edit this simple program

Pro Tip: Select a minimalist design with muted colors (cream, navy, soft gray) for an elegant touch.

 

 

Step 2: Gather Essential Content

1. Basic Information

• Full name of the deceased

• Birth and death dates

• Service time, date, and location

• Officiant’s name

2. Order of Service

Outline the ceremony’s flow (example below):

3. Biography or Obituary

Keep it concise (3–5 paragraphs) with:

• Early life and family

• Career and passions

• Surviving relatives

Personal Touch: Add a favorite quote or poem.

Step 3: Customize the Design

Design Tips for Simplicity

✅ Fonts: Use serif (Times New Roman) or sans-serif (Arial) for readability.
✅ Colors: Soft neutrals (ivory, pale blue) convey solemnity.
✅ Photos: Include 1–2 high-resolution images (portrait + candid shot).
✅ Whitespace: Avoid clutter—leave room for text and visuals.

Free Tools for Editing:

• Canva (Drag-and-drop customization)

• Microsoft Word (Basic text adjustments)

Pro Tip: Religious services may include a cross or scripture; outdoor memorials suit nature-themed borders.

Step 4: Proofread and Print

Printing Options

1. Home Printing

   • Paper: Cardstock (65+ lb weight) for durability (affiliate link: Amazon Cardstock).

   • Test Print: Check alignment on plain paper first.

2. Local Print Shop

   • Ask for: Matte or eggshell finish (elegant, non-glare).

3. Online Services

   • Vistaprint (Affordable bulk orders)

   • FuneralPrints.com (Specialized memorial printing)

Final Check: Verify all names, dates, and spellings.

 

Step 5: Distribute at the Service

• Place programs on a welcome table or hand them out as guests arrive.

• Save extras for absent family members.

Conclusion: A Lasting Tribute Made Simple

Creating a simple funeral program doesn’t require design expertise—just heartfelt content and a clean layout. By following these steps, you’ll craft a meaningful keepsake that honors your loved one’s memory.

Need a Template? Try these:

• Free Funeral Program Template

• Marketplace

For more guidance, explore our funeral program examples or comment below for personalized help.