Creating a Meaningful Memorial Program

Funeral services play an important role in the process of healing after we lose a loved one. To make these services even more special, many families find ways to personalize them. One easy way to do this is with the memorial program. To help you customize your memorial program to your loved one, keep these tips in mind from directors of funeral homes in Jackson, TN.

What is a Memorial Program?

Also called a funeral program, a memorial program is a pamphlet that lists information such as the order of service, the obituary as well as any special acknowledgments the family would like to announce.  

These programs are typically four pages with a cover, two inside pages, and the back cover. They range in size but are most commonly 8.5 inches tall by 5.5 inches wide (this would be like a copy sheet of 8.5” x 11” paper held landscape view and folded in half). Normally a heavy weight paper is used to make the program studier than regular copy paper.  

There is a standard format for what information should be placed where and tends to be: 

Cover Page - The cover will contain an image of the deceased as well as their name, birth date, date of passing, and any information about where the service is being held including the location and the date. 

Inside Pages - Inside the program you will find the order of service as well as any names of who is performing any readings, eulogies, etc. You may also find the obituary printed.  

Back Cover – The back cover is normally reserved for any special thank you messages as well as acknowledgments that the family would like to announce. There may also be a list of the pallbearers as well as a special passage, poem, or lyric.  

Ways to Personalize the Program

There are several ways to personalize the program for your loved one. The first opportunity comes with choosing the image for the front cover. While a nice headshot can be a wonderful option, you can also choose one that expresses a hobby or passion your loved one enjoyed. For example, if the deceased loved to fish maybe you have a nice image of them their boat or showing of their big catch of the day.  

Another way to personalize the program is to add in additional personal information. For example, you could add in your loved one’s top 10 favorite songs or a list of all of the countries they visited.  

The last way you can personalize the program is through the design elements such as colors and fonts. Did your loved one have a favorite color or color combo? Using these colors can be a nice touch to the program. Also, don’t overlook the font choice. Choosing a font that represents the style and personality should be easy with so many font choices available. Just make sure whichever front you choose, it is still able to be read easily.   

If you would like more information about memorial programs or service from funeral homes in Jackson, TN, come by or give us a call anytime.