Planning a funeral to honor a loved one can be overwhelming. To help you manage the process and handle the event with care, there are some key etiquette tips for family members to keep in mind before, during, and after the service. Some of which include:
Greeting Guests
You are not obligated to greet everyone at the funeral service. It’s perfectly fine to stay close to your family and acknowledge other mourners later, as needed, given your grief.
Wear Proper Funeral Attire
Showing respect and honor for your loved one’s memory often require wearing certain clothing. If the rest of the family is wearing a particular attire, try to comply even if it’s a colour or style you hate.
A funeral isn’t the right time to stand out as an individual.
Some Guests Will be Awkward
Guests might try to offer comforting words, but their attempts could sometimes come across as awkward or even offensive. Be prepared for the possibility that not everyone knows how to respond appropriately. Respond briefly and remember that you aren’t obligated to tell anyone the entire story.
Funeral Procession
The funeral procession typically starts at the funeral home and moves to the burial site. The officiant or funeral director usually leads the way, followed by the pallbearers carrying the casket.
Immediate family members are generally part of the main procession, while other guests might drive separately or follow further behind.
Expressing Emotions Publicly
Feel free to show grief or shed tears; it’s perfectly normal.
No one expects the bereaved to be stoic or cheerful, no matter the circumstances of the loved one’s passing.
Food and Accommodation
It is courteous to prepare food that your guests will eat when they attend for the funeral service. Some of them may have traveled from far distances to attend the event and will need a place to stay. You should also make accommodation arrangements, especially if they are your personal guests.