For a long time, funeral stationery, much like funeral services themselves, followed a very specific pattern: black covers, formal layouts and one-size-fits-all design. It was familiar, traditional and safe, but also impersonal.
Now, however, the way we say goodbye is changing, with every aspect of funerals, including condolence books, evolving with it.
Modern Remembrance - a More Personal Affair
Today’s funerals are no longer defined solely by tradition. Families are choosing celebrations of life and services that feel personal, intimate and true to the individual they are remembering. Funeral stationery can play a role in setting that tone.
At BeGolden, we believe a condolence book should feel personal from the very first glance. Through carefully chosen printed messages, modern fonts and colour choices, it becomes something far more meaningful than a traditional black book - it becomes a real reflection of a life. It’s not about breaking rules. It’s about creating something that feels right for today, and right for the people remembering.
What Should I Write On the Cover of a Condolence Book?
One of the most meaningful elements of a personalised condolence book is the printed message on the cover. There are no rights and wrongs here - a short dedication, a line of poetry or a simple message of remembrance all offer and a sense of connection, reflecting the way in which you have chosen to commemorate your loved one. Even a few short words of a personalised message can bring them powerfully to mind and encourage attendees to record their own special recollections and memories.
Why Does Font Choice Matter on a Funeral Book?
Traditionally, condolence books tended to rely on the most formal of fonts. But with more people choosing to celebrate life, rather than just commemorate loss, modern designs embrace fonts that are elegant, soft and readable, from refined serif typefaces to subtle script lettering.
Choosing the right font instantly adds personality, making your book feel classic, contemporary, gentle or expressive - all while remaining respectful. Most importantly, it helps the condolence book feel human, inviting guests to write from the heart rather than simply sign their name.
What Colours Are Appropriate for a Condolence Book?
Moving beyond black allows you to consider colour choices that feel more in keeping with the person being remembered. The choice is very much yours here, but at BeGolden, we’re finding that these soft neutrals, nature-inspired tones, and muted contemporary shades are increasingly popular:
Whether bold and bright, or pale and muted, choice of colour is a simple way to reflect a loved one’s individuality and preferences. You’ll find the result is a condolence book that feels like a uniquely personal tribute in itself.
What happens to a Condolence Book After the Funeral?
After the funeral is over, a condolence book becomes a keepsake that families often return to in the years to come for comfort, reflection and remembrance through familiar names and kind words.
Beautiful, personalised design ensures that book feels timeless, meaningful and deeply unique – in short, a fitting home for all of those irreplaceable memories, anecdotes and stories.
BeGolden: Personalised Condolence Books for Modern Remembrance
At BeGolden, our condolence books are thoughtfully personalised through printed messages, carefully selected fonts and contemporary colour palettes to allow you to truly reflect the person being remembered.
Black will always have its place and we have you covered if that’s what you’d like. But we believe remembrance doesn’t need to be uniform and that the most meaningful tribute is one that feels unmistakably personal.
Written by the BeGolden Team