Montevista | How to Create a Funeral Program or Memorial Folder
How to Create a Funeral Program or Memorial Folder
A funeral program—or memorial folder—guides guests through the service and serves as a keepsake for years to come. Thoughtful programs provide the order of service, lyrics or readings, and personal touches that reflect your loved one’s life. This guide shows you how to organize content, choose design elements, and print programs for Bay Area funerals.
Step 1: gather essential information
Before opening your design software, compile:
- Full name, birth date, and death date
- Service date, time, and location
- Names of officiant(s), musicians, pallbearers, readers, and family members
- Order of service with headings such as Processional, Readings, Eulogy, Tribute, Recessional
- Lyrics, prayers, or poems you want attendees to follow
- Obituary or life story summary
- Favorite quote, scripture, or personal message
- Photo assets (childhood, milestone, recent portrait)
Collect spelling and pronunciation notes now to avoid last-minute edits.
Step 2: choose a format and size
Popular formats
- Bi-fold letter (8.5\” x 11\” folded in half): Four printable panels for concise programs.
- Tri-fold brochure: Six panels for more content, ideal for bilingual services.
- Booklet (multiple sheets folded and stapled): Use when including long poems, multiple readings, or several photos.
- Digital PDF: Share via email or QR code for virtual or hybrid services.
Design tools
- Canva, Adobe Express, or Microsoft Publisher for drag-and-drop templates
- Google Docs for simple text-based layouts
- Professional design software (InDesign) for complex booklets
Monte Vista provides customizable templates when families plan services with us, saving design time.
Step 3: structure the content
Recommended sections
- Cover: Photo, name, dates, short phrase (e.g., “Celebrating the Life of…”)
- Order of Service: List each segment with times or participants
- Readings and Lyrics: Include full text for congregational participation
- Obituary or Life Story: Highlight key milestones, passions, and survivors
- Acknowledgments: Thank attendees, clergy, pallbearers, and caregivers
- Reception Details: Provide location, time, and directions
- Memorial Contributions: Mention preferred charities or funds
- Closing Quote or Prayer
Keep paragraphs short for readability. Use subheads and bullet points to break up dense text.
Step 4: select visuals and typography
- Choose 1-2 high-resolution photos (300 dpi). For collages, maintain consistent lighting and color tones.
- Stick to two complementary fonts—one for headings, one for body text.
- Use color palettes that match flowers, attire, or the loved one’s favorite hues while keeping text legible.
- Add subtle design elements (floral borders, geometric lines) but avoid clutter.
If you are printing at home, ensure colors look good on regular paper and that margins leave space for folding.
Step 5: proofread and finalize
- Double-check names, dates, and titles with another family member.
- Read lyrics or scripture aloud to catch typos.
- Print a test copy to confirm margins and font sizes. Aim for at least 11-point body text for easy reading.
- Export digital files as PDFs to preserve fonts when sending to printers.
Step 6: print or distribute digitally
Printing options
- Home printer: Works for small gatherings (under 25 attendees). Use high-quality paper (28-32 lb) and score folds for a clean finish.
- Local print shops: Provide turnaround within 24-48 hours and handle folding/stapling.
- Online printers: Upload PDFs and choose expedited shipping for national attendees.
Order 10-15% extra programs for unexpected guests or keepsakes. For outdoor services, consider thicker paper to withstand wind.
Digital distribution
- Email PDFs to remote attendees.
- Generate a QR code linking to the program and place it on signage or livestream descriptions.
- Embed the program in memorial websites or online obituaries.
Monte Vista program services
Monte Vista Memorial Gardens can work with families and local printing vendors to help with funeral program production:
- Customizable templates for families planning services with us
- Assistance connecting with local print shops for rush production
- Bilingual layouts (English/Spanish, English/Chinese, etc.)
- Coordination with florists and photographers to maintain cohesive design
- Digital versions optimized for livestream viewers
Key takeaways
- Plan content first so you know what format and length you need.
- Keep design readable and cohesive by limiting fonts, colors, and photo counts.
- Proof carefully to avoid last-minute reprints.
- Print extras and offer digital copies to include remote guests and future keepsakes.
Need help designing funeral programs?
Monte Vista’s creative team handles design, translation, and printing so your family can focus on the service itself.
Call 510-299-1174 to explore template options and production timelines.