01Start with the front cover
The cover usually carries the person's full name, dates of birth and death, a photograph, and the date and place of the service. Keep it simple and dignified — this is the page people will remember and often keep.
Planning the service
How to write an order of service for a funeral
An order of service is both a guide for the day and a keepsake for family and friends. Below is a simple way to structure one, with example wording and a ready-made outline you can use straight away.
A few examples to start from
There is no single right way to say goodbye. These complete booklets show what a church service, a humanist celebration or a short, informal farewell can look like. Choose one that feels right for your family, then make the words and photographs your own.
Example booklets — names and photos are illustrative.
Inside the booklet builder
What to put in your booklet… page by page
You do not have to work it out alone. When you build a booklet with us, a helper appears beside every page and suggests the wording people normally use there — from the welcome and readings to the hymns, tribute and thank-yous. It changes its advice depending on the type of service you choose, so the suggestions feel right for a religious, civil or humanist ceremony.
- See what usually goes on each page as you reach it
- Tap a suggestion to drop the wording straight onto the page
- Browse recommended readings, songs and poems without leaving the builder
Six steps to a complete order of service
These are the sections most families include. Once you start a booklet, the helper will guide you through each one with suggested wording and links to readings, songs and poems.
02Welcome and opening words
A short welcome from the officiant or celebrant sets the tone. This might include a thank-you to those attending and a few words about why everyone has gathered.
03The order of the service
List each part in order: an opening hymn or song, readings, a tribute or eulogy, prayers or reflections, a second hymn, the committal, and closing music. Give each item its own line so guests can follow easily.
04Include the full text of hymns and readings
Guests will not always know the words. Printing the full lyrics or reading text means everyone can take part. Our booklets have room for every verse and can be laid out beautifully around any photograph.
05Add a eulogy or tribute
If someone is giving a eulogy, name them here. Some families also include a short written tribute, a list of grandchildren, or a thank-you to carers, hospital staff or friends.
06Close with practical details
The back page often carries details of the reception or wake, donation instructions, and a thank-you from the family. You can also add a QR code linking to a Memories & Tributes page for guests who could not attend.
Example service outline
A typical funeral service runs for 30 to 45 minutes. Adjust the outline to fit the person, the venue and the tone you want.
| Time | Item |
|---|---|
| 2.00pm | Guests seated |
| 2.05pm | Opening music |
| 2.10pm | Welcome and introduction |
| 2.15pm | Reading: Psalm 23 |
| 2.20pm | Hymn: The Lord's My Shepherd |
| 2.25pm | Eulogy |
| 2.40pm | Reading: 'She Is Gone' |
| 2.45pm | Committal |
| 2.50pm | Closing music |
| 3.00pm | Reception at The Crown Inn |
Ready to design your booklet?
Choose a design, then let the page-by-page helper suggest wording for your welcome, readings, hymns and thank-yous. We'll check it, print it and deliver it UK-wide.