How Funeral Programs Work

How Funeral Programs Work:
Step-by-Step for Families

Funeral programs help guests follow the service and understand what is happening, especially when emotions are high and details can be hard to track. A funeral program can be printed, shared digitally, or used in both formats. This page explains how funeral programs typically come together—from gathering information to final printing or sharing—so families can plan with clarity and avoid last-minute stress.

Step 1 — Decide what kind of service you’re planning

Before creating the program, clarify the service type so the order of events is accurate:
• Funeral service
• Memorial service
• Celebration of life
• Graveside service
• Visitation or viewing

Even small differences affect the order of service and what guests need to know.

Step 2 — Gather the key information

Most families move faster when they gather the essentials upfront:
• Full name (as it should appear)
• Dates of birth and passing
• Service date, time, and location
• Officiant or clergy name (if applicable)
• Names of speakers and participants
• Music selections, readings, or prayers
• Photo(s) you plan to include
• Short obituary or life summary
• Family acknowledgments (optional)

Step 3 — Choose the format and layout

Funeral programs are often created in a few common formats:
• Bifold (most common)
• Trifold
• Multi-page booklet

Format affects:
• How much space you have for text and photos
• How the program is folded and handed out
• Print setup and paper choice

Step 4 — Build the order of service

A clear order of service reduces confusion and helps the day run smoothly. Many programs include:
• Opening / welcome
• Readings or scripture
• Music or hymn
• Eulogy or remarks
• Prayer / reflection
• Closing and committal (if applicable)

The goal is clarity, not perfection. If something may change, leave wording flexible.

Step 5 — Add personal elements thoughtfully

Personal details make the program feel meaningful without becoming overwhelming. Examples:
• A short life summary
• A favorite quote, poem, or scripture
• A short thank-you message
• A photo collage (only if it stays clean and readable)

The most common mistake is trying to include everything. A program reads best when it is simple and intentional.

Step 6 — Proofread with a calm checklist

Proofing is where families save the most time and avoid reprints. Check:
• Name spelling and date accuracy
• Time and location
• Correct order of service
• Photo clarity and cropping
• Consistent font sizes
• Spacing and alignment
• No text too close to edges
• Page order is correct for the fold

If possible, have one other person review it quickly with fresh eyes.

Step 7 — Print or share digitally

For printed funeral programs:
• Choose paper that holds its shape
• Print a test copy first
• Confirm fold alignment
• Print extras for unexpected guests

For digital funeral programs:
• Export to PDF
• Share by link, email, or QR code
• Ensure text is readable on a phone

Many families use both options so no one is left out.

Common Timing (What Families Typically Experience)

A simple timeline many families follow:
• Day 1: Gather details + choose layout
• Day 2: Draft + proof + revise
• Day 3: Print or send digitally

Some families complete everything faster, but the smoother the information-gathering step is, the easier the rest becomes.

About The Funeral Program Site

The Funeral Program Site provides educational guidance and design resources focused on funeral programs and memorial stationery. The goal is to help families understand the process clearly and make confident decisions while balancing grief, time pressure, and last-minute updates.

Next, explore Templates & Design Options to understand different creation methods, design choices, and how families customize funeral programs based on the service and their loved one’s story.