Celebration of Life Button Ideas: Photo Tips & Wording

Planning a service is a lot. If you're considering memorial buttons, this guide keeps it simple: how to choose the photo, what to write and how many to order. See memorial pins.

These orders are close to our hearts. Take your time. We're here to help.

Why Families Choose Memorial Buttons

Everyone carries them through the day. A photo on every lapel keeps a loved face in the room.
They start conversations. Guests who have never met can share a story.
They're kept. Many people pin theirs to a bag or keep it in a drawer for years.

How to Choose the Photo

Pick one where they look like themselves. A candid smile often means more than a formal portrait.
Keep the face near the center. Round pins crop the edges, so leave a little space around the head.
Close, but not too close. Head and shoulders works best on a 2.25″ or 3″ pin.
Older photos are welcome. A phone photo of a printed picture works. If a photo is too small to print clearly, we'll email you before anything prints.

Wording Ideas

Most memorial buttons have a short line on top and the name and dates below. A few ideas:

In Loving Memory
Forever in Our Hearts
Celebrating the Life of
A Life Well Lived
Always With Us
Until We Meet Again
A nickname, or something they always said

Short lines are easiest to read from across a room. If you're unsure, "In Loving Memory" and a name is always right.

Which Size Should I Choose?

2.25″ round: the most popular size for guests.
3″ round: easier to see from a distance; lovely for close family.
2×3″ badge pin: fits a full photo with a name and dates. Grace memorial badge pin →

How Many Should I Order?

Plan on one for each close family member and friend, plus about 10% extra for guests who arrive late or want to take one home to someone.

Gentle Ways Families Share Them

A basket by the guest book. Guests take one as they arrive. No one has to ask, and no one is left out.
Pins for the grandkids. Children often don't know what to do at a service. A pin gives them something to hold on to.
On the memory board. A few buttons next to handwritten notes and favorite pictures tie the display together.
For anyone who couldn't attend. Mail one with the program to relatives who couldn't travel.
On the days that follow. Some families wear their pins again on a birthday, or at a memorial walk or fundraiser.
A magnet at home. The same photo on the fridge, where the family gathers. Custom photo magnets →

Designs to Start With

Legacy memorial pin: a soft wreath border.
Halo memorial pin: simple and classic.
Design your own photo pin: your photo, edge to edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can memorial buttons arrive?

Pins are ready in 72 hours, and expedited shipping is available at checkout. If the service is soon, email us and we'll do everything we can to help.

Can I see the design before it prints?

Yes. The live preview shows your photo and words as you type. Every order comes with a free designer review, so it fits well and looks its best.

Can I include a photo of a pet?

Of course. Pets are family, and many people honor them the same way.

We're Here for You

If you'd like help choosing a photo or the right words, email hello@modernkeepsakes.com. We'll read every word and help however we can, with no pressure to order.

Browse memorial pins →