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5 Common Mistakes People Make When Creating a Funeral Program (And How to Avoid Them)

Creating a funeral program can feel overwhelming. Even small mistakes—like misaligned photos or missing service details—can distract from what matters. This guide helps you avoid five of the most common pitfalls, so your memorial program feels thoughtful, accurate, and beautiful.

1. Forgetting the Order of Service

Mistake: Skipping key elements like hymns, readings, or eulogies.
Solution: Always list the sequence of the ceremony (opening music, prayers, eulogy, closing remarks) — this helps attendees follow along.

2. Using Poor‑Quality Images

Mistake: Blurry or low-resolution photos can make programs look unprofessional.
Solution: Use a high-res (300 DPI) photo of your loved one and make sure it’s centered and framed properly.

3. Overcrowding the Layout

Mistake: Too much text, too many fonts or graphics.
Solution: Stick to two fonts maximum and use clean formatting. Consider using a bi‑fold or tri‑fold template with preset layout panels.

4. Ignoring Paper/Print Size

Mistake: Choosing the wrong fold or paper weight, leading to awkward printing.
Solution: Templates often default to 8.5” x 11” bi-fold. Use thicker paper (28 lb+) if printing many copies or working with a local shop.

5. Missing Acknowledgments or Quotes

Mistake: Leaving out family thanks, poems, or Bible verses.
Solution: Include a simple section that thanks family or adds a meaningful quote or verse to add emotional resonance.

✅ Download Ready‑To‑Edit Templates

Make it easier with fully editable funeral program templates in Word — pre-designed, consistent, and easy to customize.
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