Funeral Program Etiquette: Do’s and Don’ts Families Often Overlook

Why Funeral Program Etiquette Matters

When guests arrive at a service, the first thing they often receive is the program. It may look like a simple handout, but it sets expectations, guides people through the ceremony, and often becomes a keepsake.

Handled thoughtfully, a program shows respect and gives structure. Handled carelessly, it can create awkwardness — like leaving out a close relative or misprinting details. That’s why etiquette matters. It isn’t about following stiff rules, but about avoiding mistakes that cause unnecessary hurt.

If you’re new to this, reviewing a traditional layout (see our Funeral Order of Service Guide) is a helpful starting point. It explains how services are typically arranged and which sections families expect to see.

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The Do’s of Funeral Program Etiquette

Do Include the Essentials

At a minimum, a funeral program should contain:

• Full name of the deceased (including maiden name if relevant)
• Birth and passing dates
• Time, date, and location of the service
• Order of service or ceremony outline
• Names of speakers, pallbearers, and musicians

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Do Choose an Appropriate Photo

Photos are often the centerpiece of a funeral program. Pick one that reflects how the person is remembered — warm, clear, and respectful.

A design like the Cross-in-Clouds Funeral Program Template showcases a single portrait beautifully while maintaining a dignified look.

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Do Use Legible Fonts and Clean Layouts

A program is meant to be read, often by guests of all ages. Overly decorative fonts can be difficult to follow. Stick to clear, classic typefaces.

For inspiration, see our Funeral Program Fonts Guide, which breaks down which fonts balance style with readability in Microsoft Word.

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Do Credit Poems, Hymns, and Readings

If you include a poem, hymn, or excerpt, add proper attribution. This is courteous and ensures clarity about the source.

Pairing a short poem with a keepsake design such as the Dove Funeral Card is one way to add meaning while keeping things respectful.

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Do Proofread More Than Once

Mistakes are easy to make in a rush. Misspelling a family member’s name or leaving out details can cause unnecessary pain. Always have at least two people review the program before printing.

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The Don’ts of Funeral Program Etiquette

Don’t Overcrowd the Program

It’s tempting to include every memory, every poem, and multiple photos. But too much content makes the program hard to follow. A clean layout leaves room for the important details to stand out.

If you’re unsure how to balance content and design, see our Funeral Program Layouts Guide. It shows how different formats handle text and images.

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Don’t Use Low-Quality or Distracting Photos

Blurry or dark photos can feel careless. Stick with a high-resolution image that prints clearly. If you need help preparing images, our Funeral Program Photo Quality Guide covers best practices.

A layout such as the Sunset Funeral Program is designed to highlight a photo cleanly, so the focus remains where it should — on your loved one.

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Don’t Forget to Include Close Family

One of the most common mistakes is leaving out immediate family members in acknowledgments or thank-yous. This can unintentionally cause hurt feelings. Always confirm the list with relatives before finalizing.

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Don’t Use Fonts or Colors That Clash with the Occasion

Bright neons or overly whimsical fonts may work for party invitations but not a memorial service. A funeral program should match the tone of the service: calm, respectful, and timeless.

The Catholic Funeral Program Guide shows how subtle design choices create reverence, regardless of denomination.

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Don’t Rely on Just One Proofread

Typos, spacing issues, or misaligned photos often slip through on the first review. Print a test copy and check it on paper — mistakes are easier to spot in print than on a screen.

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Common Questions About Funeral Program Etiquette

Can we use nicknames in a funeral program?

Yes, but use them thoughtfully. Include the full legal name for formality, and add a nickname in quotes if it’s how most people knew your loved one. Example: “Elizabeth ‘Liz’ Marie Johnson.”

Is humor ever appropriate?

It depends on the person’s life and the tone of the service. A lighthearted story might feel right for a Celebration of Life Program Template but may not be appropriate for a traditional religious service.

Should all family members be listed?

Immediate family (spouse, children, parents, siblings) is standard. Extended family may be included if space allows. Confirm with relatives to avoid omissions.

Do funeral programs need to include religious content?

Not necessarily. Some services follow a religious structure, while others are non-denominational. See our Memorial Program Template Guide for layouts that work in either context.

Can the program double as a keepsake?

Absolutely. Many families add poems, quotes, or thank-you notes. Pairing the program with a card or folded design creates a memento guests can hold onto.

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Final Touches That Show Respect

The last details often leave the strongest impression: quality paper, clear printing, and wording that feels sincere.

Families sometimes overlook etiquette because they’re rushed. Choosing a design that already follows best practices saves time and stress. Our blog on Funeral Program Photo Quality and product templates like the Sunset Funeral Program or Dove Funeral Card can guide you toward professional, respectful results.

Above all, remember: etiquette is about making sure your loved one is honored in a way that feels dignified and inclusive. That’s what truly matters.