There are several different customs that you may need to follow when attending a funeral. Funeral etiquette can vary depending on religion and circumstances.
How to dress for a funeral largely depends on cultural traditions and if the funeral service is of a particular religion.
Many people assume that the traditional attire for funerals is all black. However, it is becoming more common for the clothing requirements to be simply formal (suits or smart dresses). Sometimes the bereaved even request that guests wear bright colours to celebrate the life of their loved one, although this kind of request will usually be communicated in the funeral notice. If in doubt of what to wear to a funeral, consulting with the family or a close friend of the family is advisable.
Sometimes it is best to check with the family or close friends prior to the service if there is a dress code. The wishes of the family must always be taken into account. There may be a certain colour that they ask everyone to wear, or even a particular flower.
The Chapel of Rest is a place where mourners are able to visit their loved one and pay their respects. If you wish to visit the Chapel of Rest, you must always ask permission from the family and then call the funeral director to make an arrangement to visit in advance.
There is usually no seating plan for a funeral. It is customary for the family and close friends to sit at the front. If you are not in either of these categories, it is recommended to wait respectfully until they have taken their seats and find somewhere accordingly. However, if it is not very full it is best to not sit right at the back.
Usually, an announcement will be made in the local paper, or you will hear of the funeral by word of mouth. Increasingly more and more people find out online. If you wish to attend, the family will generally be very receptive. Occasionally, the service may be private. In this case, only family and close friends will be asked to attend.
Children under the age of five may not necessarily understand what is happening, so it may be more appropriate to leave them at home with a minder. If you wish to bring a child over five, ensure that they are happy to go along as it may be disturbing for them.
If you feel that flowers are appropriate, most families will be very receptive. You must remember that some religions such as Orthodox Judaism do not find sending flowers appropriate. You can send flowers to the family’s home, the funeral itself or the funeral home. Be aware that some types of funeral flower arrangements have different meanings.
This takes place after the funeral service has finished. It often happens in the evening and it is a time when mourners can remember their loved one and reflect on their time with them. Usually there are refreshments available. Wakes can last for hours, depending on how the family feels.
You can always attend the wake to pay your respects if you do not attend the funeral. If you’re not close with the family, it is customary to introduce yourself so that they are aware of who you are.
