Funeral service etiquette may differ between various communities, ethnic groups, religions and customs. Do I Need to be Invited to a Funeral to Attend the Service? If you are unsure, it is appropriate to phone a family member or friend and ask for gu [...]
Sending flowers, making a donation, or sending a sympathy gift - all are welcomed as a way of showing your support. Flowers have played an important role in funeral customs since ancient times, because of their beauty and comforting qualities. They [...]
A sympathy card can mean so much to family members. A sympathy card is appropriate, and can mean so much to family members to know of your care and concern, and that they are in your thoughts. The card can either be posted to the family, or can be ta [...]
It can be difficult to find suitable wording for a sympathy card. Most people have a fear that they are going to upset or offend the person who will receive their words of sympathy. It is best not to use phrases like ‘I know how you feel’, ‘Be strong [...]
Searching for a way to show your love and support for someone who is grieving can be difficult. You may feel unsure of the appropriate way to express your sympathy. You can show your care and concern in more than one way; sending a card, making a c [...]
It is respectful to put some effort into what you are wearing though the wearing of black and formal dress at funerals is declining. In western culture, many men still prefer to wear a suit and tie, and most women will wear fashionable clothing and a [...]
It is always difficult to know what to say to someone who is grieving. There are no rules as to when you should speak to the family. You should be guided by the family’s actions at the service. If family members are greeting guests as they arrive, t [...]
You may be directed by the funeral director to sign a guest’s attendance book before they direct you to your seat. You should avoid the first few rows unless you are close family. The next of kin sits nearest the coffin, usually at the end of the pew [...]
“Should I bring my child/children to the funeral?” is a common question from parents and other adults when someone has died. The answers are important and vary according to the individual child and whether the child has been closely affected by the d [...]
