Dealing with the grief that comes with losing a loved one can be very painful. During this period, funerals offer an opportunity for family members to gather together, show their respects, and honor the deceased’s memory. If you’ve never been to one of these services before, you might not know what to expect or how to behave. Before the memorial, consult the suggestions below to ensure you’re well prepared.

3 Basic Rules of Etiquette to Follow at Funerals

1. Dress Appropriately

Most funerals don’t explicitly state the need for a strict dress code. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and dress conservatively. Black is ideal, but dark gray or navy are also acceptable. A good rule to follow is to dress as though you’re going in for a job interview: polished, clean, and well put together. 

2. Express Your Condolences

You might feel apprehensive about saying the right words to the immediate family members. In most cases, though, those in mourning will simply be grateful for kind words and the comforting presence of supportive loved ones. When you approach the surviving family members, offer your thoughts and sincere condolences. Depending on your relationship with the deceased, you can use your judgment as to whether a few extra words of love or a hug are appropriate.

3. Be on Time

Showing up late to a funeral can be distracting and come off as disrespectful, so do your best to arrive on time. For the best results, aim to be at least 15 minutes early. This will give you time to park, find the service room, say hello, and find a seat.

If you recently lost a loved one and need help putting together their funeral, turn to the compassionate professionals at Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home in Canandaigua, NY. For over 100 years, their caring team as helped arrange beautiful funerals and memorial services for those in mourning. Call (585) 394-4280 to schedule a consultation and visit their website for more information on their services.