Custom Memorial Service Program and Order of Events

What a good one includes

• A high-quality cover photograph of your loved one alongside their full legal name, sunrise and sunset dates, and the location of the service.
• A chronological schedule of the service, detailing the prelude, welcome address, readings, musical performances, eulogy, and closing benediction.
• Explicit mentions of the names and roles of all active participants, including officiating clergy, pallbearers, readers, and musicians.
• Printed lyrics for congregational hymns, responsive scripture readings, or collective prayers so the community can fully participate.
• A brief biographical sketch, a favorite poem, or a meaningful scripture passage that reflects the deceased's personal faith and legacy.
• An acknowledgement section expressing gratitude to attendees and caregivers, coupled with details regarding the reception or interment.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting to verify the spelling of family members' names, officiating clergy, or musical contributors in the final print.
• Leaving out clear cues for the congregation, such as when to stand or sit during different parts of the service.
• Overloading the program layout with too much text or tiny fonts, making it difficult for older community members to read in dim chapel lighting.
• Neglecting to coordinate the final order of events with the officiant or venue director prior to printing.

Frequently asked questions