What is proper etiquette for a wake?
It’s not mandatory to view the body, but you can stop and say a silent prayer if you wish. After passing the casket, approach the family and introduce yourself if necessary. Say a few kind words about the deceased, shake their hands, give them hugs, offer a warm smile – any small gesture will be appropriate.
What typically happens at a wake?
More often, a wake is one of several ceremonies that take place after a death. It’s typical in the U.S. to start with a wake, viewing, or visitation, followed by a funeral or memorial service and a burial or inurnment. Close friends and family will often attend all of the services, from wake through burial.
Should you bring anything 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?
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.
How do you pay respects at a wake?
Pay your respects to the deceased (if the casket is present). If you wish, you can kneel down to pray at the casket for a moment. It’s also perfectly acceptable just to stop to view the body for a moment, then move on to greet the bereaved.
Should I attend both the wake and the 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 a wake be held after a funeral?
For many people, holding a wake after the funeral ceremony is an important part of remembering the person who died. There are different rules about holding wakes depending where you live.
How long after someone dies is the wake?
A wake (sometimes referred to as a viewing or visitation) will usually happen within a week of death. So this answer is very similar to that of the question “How long after death is the funeral?” The wake itself typically takes place the evening before the funeral.
Is it disrespectful to not attend a wake?
Is It Disrespectful to Not Go to a Funeral? It is at your discretion to decide whether attending a certain funeral is disrespectful or not. Keep in mind, that family and friends may have an opinion on your decision to not attend, so it’s best to be prepared with a response that explains why you’ve opted out.
What should you not say at a wake?
Seven Things You Should Never Say at Funerals
- “He/She Deserved to Die”
- “It Could be Worse”
- “It was Destiny”
- “Everything Happens for a Reason”
- “At Least…”
- “You’re Still Young”
- “It’s Better…”
What do you say to someone after a wake?
Here are some examples of what to say at a funeral:
- I’m sorry for your loss.
- He will be missed by everyone that knew him.
- She was a lovely woman and will be greatly missed.
- You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
- When you’re ready, I’m here for you.
How do I excuse myself from a funeral?
Please accept my sincerest apologies for not being able to attend the funeral. My heart aches knowing that I can’t be there to support you all during this difficult time. You may not feel it is necessary to explain why you aren’t at the funeral.
What’s the purpose of a wake at a funeral?
Cultures all over the world have wakes. The purpose of a wake is to bring family, friends, and the community at large together to celebrate the life of the deceased. If you’ve never attended a wake before, check out some of these basic etiquette tips. It can be difficult to know how to offer condolences to a grieving family.
How does funeral etiquette work in the UK?
Traditional British funeral etiquette is centred around the wishes of the immediately bereaved family members who are arranging the funeral. This means that other family members and friends take their lead, or follow the funeral details provided by the funeral director on the family’s behalf.
Do you have to arrive at a funeral home for a wake?
Wakes at funeral homes usually only last a few hours and are typically immediately followed by the funeral service. If you’re attending the funeral, you may come to the wake at any time and stay for the funeral. Wakes don’t have a set agenda or program, so there is no need to arrive at the starting time.
What should you say at a funeral reception?
As we say in our guide to wakes the funeral reception, is a chance for sympathisers to express their condolences in person to the bereaved family and share kind words or memories with other friends and family. It’s good funeral etiquette to be ready with some polite and sincere words of sympathy.