Though you won’t be asked to keep vigil over the body, most people go to wakes with the express intention of interacting with the deceased. The main intent of the wake beyond comforting the family is to pay your respects to the deceased. You may go up and say a silent prayer. You may say goodbye.
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Is it OK to just go to the wake?
The short answer is, yes. It’s usually just fine to attend both the wake and the funeral. Especially if the person who dies was someone you knew very well. In fact, most people would consider it the respectable thing to do.
What should I bring to a wake?
What is appropriate to wear to a wake? A wake is a formal occasion, and your attire should reflect that. Any sort of business clothes such as a shirt and tie, a dress, nice pants and a top in dark colors would be suitable and appropriate. Avoid bright colors and clothing that is revealing or flamboyant.
What do you say at a wake?
If attending the wake, you can say:
- “I wish we were here together under different circumstances.
- “Thank you so much for organizing the wake for (insert deceased individual’s name)- I know they would have loved every special touch that you’ve done.
How long do you have to stay at a wake?
According to the The Funeral Source, it is appropriate for guests to stay at the wake for as little as 15 to 20 minutes. However, you should use your own discretion upon deciding when to leave. If you’re close with the family, you may want to stay longer.
Do you go to wake or funeral?
You should attend both the wake and the funeral for family members and very close friends. If you’re a member of the immediate family, people will want to express condolences to you. Even if it’s difficult, being there is important.
Can anyone attend a funeral?
A funeral service is an opportunity for family, friends and acquaintances to pay their respects to the person who has died. It is generally open to anyone who wishes to attend, though the family may state it’s a private service, in which case it’s exclusively for family members and close friends.
Can you wear GREY to a funeral?
Generally speaking, black is still the proper attire for funeral clothing. However, if you are not related to the deceased, you can wear navy blue or dark grey as well.
What to say at calling hours?
When attending a visitation, here are examples of what you can say to the family:
- My condolences.
- I’m really sorry you’re going through this.
- Your mom was a wonderful woman.
- You loved him/her well.
- I’m thinking of your family during this difficult time.
What should teenage girls wear to a wake?
Here are some outfits to consider when deciding what to wear to a wake: A simple, solid-colored dress in muted colors and dark shoes. A dark skirt with a formal top and dark shoes. Dress pants with a dressy top or a sweater.
Do you wear black to a viewing?
When attending a visitation it is best to dress conservatively. While most people typically wear black or other dark colors to anything funeral-related, that is not necessary. What you wear should be subdued, unless otherwise requested by the family.
Can you wear jeans to a viewing?
What to Wear to a Visitation. Visitations, or calling hours, are generally more casual than funeral services.It’s still important to show respect to the grieving family, so avoid wearing inappropriate shoes like flip flops and athletic shoes or very casual clothes like shorts and jeans.
What should you not say at a funeral?
Never say “At least he didn’t suffer,” “At least she made it to her birthday,” or “At least she died doing what she loved” at a funeral. Instead, say: “I am here for you.” It’s best to avoid any statements that begin with “at least,” notes Bickerton.Check in during the day of the funeral and beyond.
Is it inappropriate to wear jeans to a funeral?
The most common answer is that jeans aren’t considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.
Do you bring money to a wake?
Funerals are quite expensive, so every little amount of money will help the family recover after the big spend. It’s wise and polite to donate the money before the funeral, after you’ve talked to a family member.
Is it bad not to go to a funeral?
Sometimes it’s okay to skip the funeral. In general, if your presence would be unwelcome in any way or a disturbance, you should find another way to pay your respects. Here’s when it may be okay to skip the funeral service: If your presence will upset the close family of the deceased.
Should a child attend a parents funeral?
As a general guideline, children should be allowed to attend a wake, funeral and burial if they want to. They can also be involved in the funeral planning. Joining family members for these rituals gives the child a chance to receive grief support from others and say goodbye in their own way to the person who has died.
What do you wear to a viewing?
We recommend wearing dark or neutral colors, to avoid standing out in the crowd. Darker colors reflect the mourning atmosphere of the service or visitation. Men will generally wear suits or dress pants, dress shirts and jackets along with a subtle tie. Women typically wear pants, skirts and blouses, dresses or suits.
Can you wear white to a wake?
Wearing a white dress shirt is generally fine along with a grey, black, or navy suit and a toned-down tie—no bright colors or prints. Wearing a white blouse can be mitigated with a black or dark blazer or cardigan, especially if you can also wear a dark scarf with it.
What do we do after death?
To Do Immediately After Someone Dies
- Get a legal pronouncement of death.
- Tell friends and family.
- Find out about existing funeral and burial plans.
- Make funeral, burial or cremation arrangements.
- Secure the property.
- Provide care for pets.
- Forward mail.
- Notify your family member’s employer.
Why do you walk behind a coffin?
A funeral procession is a tradition in which the family and close friends of someone who has died, along with other mourners, follow behind their coffin as it travels towards its final resting place.This is seen as a sign of respect, and allows other cars the opportunity to join or catch up to the procession.