Funeral services often use a variety of print products to commemorate the life of the deceased, provide information about the funeral service, and offer keepsakes for attendees. These products serve not only as a means of conveying essential information but also as a way to honor and remember the loved one. Here’s an overview of common print products used in funeral services, their purposes, and approximate costs:
1. Funeral Programs
- Purpose: Serves as a guide to the service, including the order of events, names of participants, and sometimes the lyrics or texts of the songs or readings. It may also contain a brief biography or photos of the deceased.
- Approximate Costs: Depending on the design, paper quality, and quantity, costs can range from $1 to $4 per program for standard designs.
2. Prayer Cards
- Purpose: These small, card-sized keepsakes often feature a photo of the deceased, a prayer, or a short religious or inspirational text. They are distributed to attendees as a memory keepsake.
- Approximate Costs: Costs typically range from $0.50 to $2 per card, depending on the quality of paper and quantity ordered.
3. Memorial Bookmarks
- Purpose: Similar to prayer cards, bookmarks are longer and can be used in books, serving as a functional memento. They often include a photo, a favorite quote, or a poem.
- Approximate Costs: Prices range from $1 to $3 each, depending on the design complexity and paper quality.
4. Thank You Cards
- Purpose: These are used by the bereaved family to express gratitude to those who offered support, sent flowers, or donated to a charity in the deceased’s memory.
- Approximate Costs: Cost varies from $0.50 to $2 per card, including envelopes, based on the design and quantity.
5. Obituary Notices
- Purpose: Though often published online or in newspapers, printed obituary notices may be prepared for attendees or sent to those who cannot attend the service. They provide details about the deceased’s life, family, and funeral arrangements.
- Approximate Costs: The cost for printed obituaries can vary widely, from $2 to $5 each for small quantities, depending on the length and paper quality.
6. Memorial Posters or Banners
- Purpose: These are larger visual tributes that feature photographs and sometimes quotes or a biography of the deceased. Displayed during the service, they visually celebrate the life of the deceased.
- Approximate Costs: Costs can range from $20 to $100+, depending on the size and material quality.
Cost Factors and Considerations
- Quantity: Ordering in larger quantities can reduce the cost per unit but overall increases the total expense.
- Customization: Custom designs, special paper, or additional features like foil stamping can increase costs.
- Printing Method: Professional printing services might offer packages that bundle several of these items at a reduced total cost compared to ordering items separately.
When planning for funeral print products, it’s essential to balance the desire to honor the deceased with the budgetary constraints that families may face. Many funeral homes offer packages that include these print products, which can simplify the process for grieving families.