Funeral Order of Service Guide

What It Is, What to Include and How Many You Need

When arranging a funeral, there are many details to consider, and one of the most meaningful keepsakes is the funeral order of service. Not only does it help guide guests through the ceremony, but it also provides a lasting reminder of a loved one’s life and the special memories shared.

At Gaunts of Kidderminster, we understand that creating an order of service can feel overwhelming during an emotional time. This guide explains everything you need to know, from what an order of service is to what should be included and how many copies you’ll need.

What Is an Order of Service for a Funeral?

A funeral order of service is a printed booklet or folded card given to guests as they arrive at the funeral. It outlines the running order of the ceremony and provides details of hymns, readings, music, prayers and tributes.

Many families also include photographs, poems and personal messages, making the booklet a treasured keepsake long after the funeral has taken place.

Whether the funeral is a cremation, burial, religious service or celebration of life, an order of service helps everyone follow the ceremony and participate where appropriate.

What Goes in a Funeral Order of Service?

Every funeral is unique, but most order of service booklets include:

Front Cover

The front cover usually features:

• A favourite photograph of your loved one
• Their full name
• Date of birth and date of passing
• Date, time and location of the funeral
• A meaningful quote or verse (optional)

Welcome

A brief introduction from the officiant or celebrant may appear at the beginning of the booklet.

Hymns and Music

Include the words of any hymns or songs that guests will be invited to join in with.

For non-religious services, you may simply list the music being played throughout the ceremony.

Readings or Poems

Many families include:

• Favourite poems
• Bible readings
• Personal readings
• Literary extracts
• Messages written by family members

Eulogy

The order of service can indicate when the eulogy will be delivered and by whom.

Committal

For burial and cremation services, the committal is often included in the running order.

Closing Music

The final piece of music is usually listed to conclude the service.

Back Cover

The back page often includes:

• A thank you message
• Details of the wake or reception
• Charity donation information
• A favourite photograph
• A meaningful quote or poem

How to Make an Order of Service for a Funeral

Creating an order of service is simpler than many families expect, particularly with the support of an experienced funeral director.

The process usually involves:

1. Choose Your Content

Think about the elements you’d like included, such as:

• Music
• Hymns
• Readings
• Poems
• Photographs
• Personal messages

2. Select Photographs

Choose clear, high-quality photographs that celebrate your loved one’s life. Many families include images from different stages of life or special family occasions.

3. Decide on the Design

The design can be as traditional or as contemporary as you wish.

Options include:

• Simple and elegant layouts
• Floral themes
• Nature scenes
• Religious imagery
• Favourite colours
• Bespoke personalised designs

4. Check the Details

Before printing, carefully review names, dates, spellings and the running order to ensure everything is accurate.

5. Arrange Printing

At Gaunts of Kidderminster, we can professionally design and print your order of service booklets, ensuring they are ready in time for the funeral.

How Many Order of Service Booklets Do I Need?

One of the most common questions families ask is how many copies they should order.

As a general guide:

• 20–30 guests: Order around 30 booklets.
• 50 guests: Order 60 booklets.
• 100 guests: Order 110–120 booklets.

It’s always worth ordering a few extra copies.

Many people like to keep a copy as a keepsake, while additional booklets can be sent to relatives and friends who were unable to attend the funeral.

Your Funeral Director can help estimate the number of guests and recommend an appropriate quantity.

Can an Order of Service Be Personalised?

Absolutely.

Today’s funeral order of service booklets can be completely tailored to reflect the life and personality of your loved one.

Popular personalisation options include:

• Multiple photographs
• Favourite colours
• Family messages
• Personal poems
• Bespoke artwork
• Religious or non-religious designs
• Charity information
• QR codes linking to online memorial pages or photo galleries

Every order of service can become a unique tribute that celebrates an individual’s life.

Do I Need an Order of Service?

While an order of service isn’t essential, most families choose to have one because it:

• Helps guests follow the ceremony.
• Encourages participation in hymns and readings.
• Acts as a treasured keepsake.
• Provides important information about the funeral and wake.
• Creates a more organised and personal service.

Many people continue to keep funeral order of service booklets for years as a reminder of their loved one.

How Gaunts of Kidderminster Can Help

At Gaunts of Kidderminster, we understand that every funeral is unique. Our experienced Funeral Directors can help you create a beautiful, personalised order of service that reflects your loved one’s life with dignity and care.

From choosing photographs and wording to professional design and high-quality printing, we’ll guide you through every step, ensuring your order of service is ready for the day of the funeral.

Whether you’re arranging a traditional funeral, cremation or celebration of life, we’re here to provide compassionate advice and support whenever you need us.

Frequently Asked Questions