Funeral Etiquette 101

Attending a funeral can be a difficult experience for many, especially if they have never attended one before. Most are anxious to offer comfort and make sure their presence doesn’t offend the grieving individuals. At The Cremation Care Centre, we encourage guests to keep these etiquette guidelines in mind when they attend:

1. Wear Something Appropriate

Stick with formal clothes and dark, somber colors instead of wearing anything casual. A simple suit for men and a modest dress for women are acceptable. Don’t wear bright or flashy colors or short dresses because that may come across as disrespectful. It is also a good idea to avoid jeans, shorts, graphic t-shirts, and other such clothing items.

2. Arrive on Time

We encourage guests to arrive around 10-15 minutes before the funeral service is set to begin. That gives you ample time to find your seat and greet others. If the service venue has limited parking space, we encourage you to consider arriving a little early to find an open spot. Account for traffic conditions and unplanned delays when you leave your home.

3. Switch Your Phone Off

Switch off your phone or keep it on silent. Don’t attend to any calls or messages during the funeral service. It is a good idea to inform your family, friends, and workplace that you will be attending a funeral so they know not to call unless there’s an emergency. If you still get a call and must attend to it, step out of the service venue to speak with the caller. Make sure your movements don’t cause too much disruption. Keep the phone in your pocket at all times during the service.

If you want more advice or need information on cremation, get in touch with us at The Cremation Care Centre. You can call us at 416-255-0035 or register online.