Serene FarewellsFuneral, cremation & memorial planning guidance

Funeral guest books & service supplies

A guest book, a few display supplies and simple programs help a service run smoothly — and give the family a record to keep. Check what the funeral home already provides first.

Edited by Steven Royster, Licensed Funeral Director (FL) Published October 3, 2026 Updated How we create content

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Key points

  • Many funeral homes include a register book, programs or prayer cards in their packages — ask before buying.
  • If you buy your own, order early enough for delivery before the service.
  • Memory cards that guests fill in often become one of the family's most treasured keepsakes.

Guest books

A guest book (or register book) records who attended. Look for:

  • Enough lined pages for the expected number of guests, with columns for name and address or a short message
  • A durable cover and a lay-flat binding
  • A pen and stand or small table placed near the entrance

For a celebration of life, some families use a photo guest book, a wooden "guest book" box with message cards, or a canvas guests sign.

Memory cards

Cards with a prompt such as "My favorite memory of…" invite guests to write a story. Provide pens and a box or basket. Some families read a few aloud at the service; others keep them all in a memory box.

Programs

A program (order of service) usually includes the person's name, dates, a photo, the order of service, readings or lyrics, and a thank-you from the family. Build the outline with our memorial service planner, then print on cardstock or program paper. Print a few more than the expected guest count.

Display supplies

  • Easels for a large photo or a poster
  • Photo boards or tri-fold boards for collages
  • Table covers for a memory table
  • Frames in a few sizes
  • Flameless candles where open flames aren't allowed

Ask the venue whether easels, tables and a screen for a slideshow are available. See the memorial planning guide for ideas.

Browse supplies

These links go to Amazon category searches. We haven't tested individual products.

Funeral guest books

Look for enough pages and a lay-flat binding.

Browse guest books on Amazon

Memory cards

"Share a memory" cards for guests.

Browse memory cards on Amazon

Program paper

Printable cardstock for folded programs.

Browse program paper on Amazon

Display easels

Floor or tabletop easels for photos.

Browse easels on Amazon

Flameless candles

For venues that don't allow open flames.

Browse flameless candles on Amazon