How to create an order of service booklet for a funeral
Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, but creating a thoughtful order of service is a beautiful way to honour your loved one.
What is an Order of Service?
An order of service is a printed, usually stapled, A5 booklet given to guests as they arrive — or sent to those who cannot attend.
It contains:
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The running order of the ceremony
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Readings, prayers or personal messages
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Hymns or song lyrics, so everyone can join in
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Any other meaningful tributes
It’s both a practical guide and a keepsake for family and friends.
What to Include in Your Order of Service
Every funeral is unique, but most booklets follow a similar structure. We’ve created a simple template that you can personalise and email back to us.
Front Cover
Typically includes:
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A heading such as “In Loving Memory of…”
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Full name of the deceased
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A treasured photograph
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Dates of birth and death
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Date, time and location of the service
Here are a few images of an order of service:
Inside Pages
These pages outline the flow of the service. Your celebrant can assist with confirming the order. This may include:
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Entrance music
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Welcome and introductions
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Readings, poems or eulogies
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Hymns, songs or prayers
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Committal/blessing
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Exit music
You may wish to end with:
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A thank-you message
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Donation details
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Refreshment or wake information
Adding a colour photo or two can make this section feel even more personal.
Design Tips and Considerations
✔ Choose readable fonts
Because attendees may include older guests, we recommend:
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A5 page size
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Minimum font size of 10pt
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Clear, legible typefaces
✔ Make it a keepsake
Photos, favourite quotes, and short tributes can make the booklet something families hold onto forever.
Ideas include:
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A photo collage across the centre spread
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Memories or tributes from loved ones
✔ Plan your page layout
Inside covers are often left blank so the content starts neatly on the first inner page.
For an 8-page booklet, this means pages 2 and 7 may be empty — or you could use them for extra photos.
Additional Memorial Printing
We can also help with:
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Other personalised print items for the ceremony or wake
These make thoughtful displays and keepsakes for guests.
Ready to Order?
Or contact us if you’d like help designing something truly personal and fitting.
We’re here to make the process simple, stress-free and respectful — so you can focus on celebrating the person you love.