Serving the Scottish Borders since 1848

Personal touches

Every funeral is unique because every life is unique.

While some families prefer a simple and traditional service, others choose to include personal details that reflect hobbies, interests, achievements or special memories.

Adding personal touches can make a funeral feel more meaningful and can help family and friends feel closely connected to the service. We will help you plan these details carefully, ensuring everything is arranged smoothly on the day.

Trumpet being played at a funeral service

Music

Music is one of the most powerful ways to personalise a funeral.

You may wish to include:

  • Favourite songs or pieces of music
  • Hymns
  • Classical music
  • Modern or contemporary tracks
  • Live musicians

We will check that any music you choose can be accommodated at the venue and ensure it is played at the right time.

Girl performing a reading at a funeral service

Readings and poetry

Many families choose to include readings during the service.

These might be:

  • Religious passages
  • Poems
  • Favourite literary extracts
  • Personal tributes written by family members

If you would like help selecting something appropriate, we can provide suggestions.

Photo of a slide show of photographs celebrating a life well lived playing at a funeral service.

Photographs and visual tributes

At crematorium services, it is often possible to display photographs or short video tributes.

These can be shown during the service and can include:

  • A selection of family photographs
  • Significant life moments
  • A short slideshow set to music

We will handle the technical arrangements and coordinate with the venue to ensure everything runs correctly.

Online tributes and funeral announcements

Many families find it helpful to create an online tribute page where friends and relatives can share memories and stay informed about the funeral arrangements. We work with the MuchLoved tribute platform to create dedicated online pages that can include:

  • Funeral announcements that can be easily shared with family and friends
  • Photographs and memories from those who knew your loved one
  • Copies of the order of service
  • Livestream links or photo tributes from the service
  • Messages of condolence and virtual candles

If you wish, the page can also be used to support a chosen charity, allowing friends and family to make donations in memory of your loved one. Using the MuchLoved platform means donations can be made securely online and charities are able to claim Gift Aid where applicable, ensuring the full benefit of each contribution.

We will guide you through setting up the tribute page and can include the details within the funeral announcements and order of service.

Photo of an elderly woman viewing Thomas Brown & Sons MuchLoved tribute page on her Ipad
Photo of lawn bowling items placed on top of a coffin showing how a funeral can be made very personal and meaningful and it needn't cost the earth

Personal items

Some families choose to include meaningful items during the service, such as:

  • A hobby-related object
  • Sporting memorabilia
  • A uniform or work item
  • Flowers with special significance

These details can help reflect personality and interests in a simple but powerful way.

We will advise on what is suitable for the chosen venue.

Photo of an order of bespoke designed order of service

Funeral stationery

Printed materials such as:

  • Order of service booklets
  • Memorial cards
  • Thank you cards

can be designed to reflect personal choices, including photographs, favourite colours or selected readings.

We can assist with design and printing if required.

Photo of personalised funeral flowers remembrance

Unique and alternative ideas

If you would like something more individual, we can discuss options such as:

  • Themed music selections
  • Special transport choices
  • Donations in lieu of flowers
  • Personalised floral arrangements
  • Online tribute pages where friends and family can share memories

We are always happy to talk through ideas, no matter how simple or creative they may be.

Violinist playing at a personalised funeral service

Keeping it simple

Personal touches do not have to be elaborate.

For many families, a single piece of music or a short reading is enough to make the service feel personal and heartfelt.

We will help you decide what feels appropriate and ensure the arrangements reflect your wishes.

Funeral transport

Funeral transport can be arranged to suit the style and wishes of the service, from traditional hearses and limousines to more personal options. We will guide you through the choices available.

Explore funeral transport

Funeral costs

We believe in full transparency. View clear, itemised funeral pricing for cremation and burial services in the Scottish Borders.

View costs

Talk to us

If you would like to discuss ways to personalise a funeral, please get in touch. We are here to listen and help you create a service that feels right for your family.