When a loved one passes away, planning a funeral can be an overwhelming task. Among the many details that need to be handled, printing essential items for the service is a crucial part of the process. From funeral programs to prayer cards, the printed materials not only serve as a guide for the service but also as keepsakes for those who attend. Here’s everything you need to know about funeral printing essentials.
The Importance of Funeral Printing
Funeral printing plays a vital role in memorializing a loved one. These printed materials are not just informational; they offer comfort, evoke memories, and provide a tangible connection to the person who has passed. They are often kept by attendees as a lasting tribute, making the quality and thoughtfulness of these items particularly important.
1. Funeral Programs
Funeral programs are perhaps the most significant printed item at a funeral. They typically include the order of service, photos of the deceased, personal messages, and sometimes even a short biography. These programs serve as a guide for attendees, helping them follow the ceremony and participate at the appropriate times.
When creating a funeral program, it’s important to consider the following elements:
Design: The design of the program should reflect the personality and life of the deceased. This can be achieved through the use of specific colors, themes, and images that were significant to them. Many families choose to use a template that can be customized with personal details.Content: The content of the program usually includes the name of the deceased, their birth and death dates, a photo, the order of service, and any special messages or poems. It’s also common to include the names of the officiant, pallbearers, and family members who will be speaking or participating in the service.
Printing: The quality of the paper and printing can greatly impact the overall feel of the program. High-quality, thick paper with a professional finish will provide a more durable and elegant keepsake. Additionally, consider whether you need full-color printing, as this can enhance the visual impact of photos and designs.
2. Prayer Cards
Prayer cards, also known as memorial cards, are small, wallet-sized cards typically distributed at funerals. They often feature a photo of the deceased on one side and a prayer, poem, or scripture on the other. These cards are cherished keepsakes that mourners can carry with them as a reminder of their loved one.
When designing prayer cards, keep in mind the following:
Personalization: Like funeral programs, prayer cards can be personalized with photos, quotes, and religious symbols that were meaningful to the deceased. Many families choose a design that complements the funeral program to create a cohesive set of memorial items.Content: The content of the card typically includes the name and dates of the deceased, along with a prayer, poem, or verse. Some families choose to add a short message of thanks for those attending the service.
Durability: Because prayer cards are meant to be kept as a memento, it’s important to use durable, high-quality paper or cardstock. Laminating the cards is also a good option to ensure they last longer.
3. Thank You Cards
After the funeral, it is customary for the family of the deceased to send out thank you cards to those who attended the service or sent flowers, donations, or other expressions of sympathy. These cards are a simple yet meaningful way to express gratitude during a difficult time.
When preparing thank you cards, consider the following:
Timing: While it’s important to send thank you cards, there is no strict timeline. Families often wait until they feel emotionally ready to take on this task, which can be several weeks or even months after the service.Message: The message in a thank you card should be heartfelt and personal. It can be a simple note of thanks or a more detailed message, depending on the relationship with the recipient. Pre-printed thank you cards with space for a personal note can make the task easier.
Design: The design of the thank you cards should be simple and elegant. Some families choose to use a photo of the deceased on the front of the card, along with a short message of thanks.
4. Obituaries
The obituary is another essential printed item, often published in newspapers and included in the funeral program. It serves as a public notice of the death and provides a summary of the deceased’s life, including their accomplishments, interests, and family.
Key elements of an obituary include:
Personal Details: The obituary should include the full name of the deceased, their birth and death dates, and a brief biography. This typically includes information about their education, career, hobbies, and family members.Service Details: The obituary also provides information about the funeral or memorial service, including the date, time, and location. If the family prefers donations to be made in lieu of flowers, this information is often included as well.
Photo: A recent photo of the deceased is usually included in the obituary. Choose a photo that captures their personality and is appropriate for a formal announcement.
5. Memorial Books
Memorial books are often placed at the entrance of the funeral service for attendees to sign and leave messages. These books become treasured keepsakes for the family, providing them with a record of who attended the service and offering comfort through the messages left by friends and loved ones.
When choosing a memorial book, consider:
Design: The design of the memorial book should complement the other printed items used during the service. It can be personalized with the name of the deceased and their dates of birth and death.Content: In addition to space for signatures, some memorial books include pages for photos, poems, and additional messages. This allows the family to create a more comprehensive keepsake.
Placement: Ensure the memorial book is placed in a prominent location where all attendees will see it. Assign someone to encourage guests to sign the book, as it’s easy for people to overlook this opportunity.
6. Funeral Notices and Invitations
In some cases, families may choose to send out printed funeral notices or invitations, particularly if the service is private or by invitation only. These can be sent through the mail or included in the obituary.
When creating funeral notices or invitations, keep the following in mind:
Content: Include the essential details about the service, such as the date, time, and location. If the service is private, make this clear on the invitation.Design: The design should be respectful and understated. Choose fonts and colors that convey the somber tone of the event.
Distribution: Consider how you will distribute the notices or invitations. If you’re mailing them, ensure you allow enough time for them to reach recipients before the service.
Funeral printing is an important aspect of memorializing a loved one. By carefully considering the design, content, and quality of the printed materials, you can create meaningful keepsakes that honor the memory of the deceased and provide comfort to those who mourn. Whether you’re preparing funeral programs, prayer cards, or thank you notes, these printed items play a significant role in the healing process and help preserve the legacy of your loved one.
Funeral Program Templates by The Funeral Program Site
Featured Funeral Program Template
Funeral Programs and Memorials by The Funeral Program Site
Also see: funeral program templates
