A wake may last a few hours, or the deceased’s family may welcome mourners to their home over the course of a few days prior to the funeral. Bring
edible gifts
like casseroles, sandwiches, baked goods, or fruit baskets so the family doesn’t have to worry about food. They may even share it with guests.
Can you wear anything 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.
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.
Do you bring money to a wake?
The answer is usually – No.
It is not an appropriate gift
. As always in life, protocols are not set in stone and there are ways to give money if you feel the need. Here are some ideas on offering money and other appropriate memorial gifts before, during, or after a funeral service.
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 do you say to a family at a wake?
- “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.
Is it disrespectful to not go to a wake?
They can be distracting
, and they often say and do inappropriate things. Don’t push yourself to attend both the wake and the funeral. Attending one service is enough if you have small children. But make sure you consider your relationship with the deceased and the bereaved.
Is a wake or funeral more formal?
In essence, a wake is focused on visiting the family after the loss of their loved one.
Wakes are less formal than funerals
, and some follow certain rituals. Some families choose to host a funeral and a wake, the wake taking place a day before the funeral service.
What food do you bring to a wake?
- Baked Ziti or Similar Pasta Dishes. Baked pasta is always a crowd pleaser. …
- Potato Casseroles. Potato casseroles have a long tradition as a comfort food. …
- Sandwich Trays. …
- Deviled Eggs. …
- Salads. …
- Meatballs. …
- Meat/Cheese Trays. …
- Fruit/Vegetable Trays.
How do you dress for a wake or funeral?
A wake might be slightly less formal than a funeral, but it still requires a polished, put-together look. A nice sweater and trousers are about as casual as you can go. Better to
wear a jacket, neat shirt or blouse and trousers or skirt
. Avoid big patterns, sequins, or anything that makes noise.
Is it OK not to attend a parents funeral?
In fact, doing so may make you feel like a fraud, especially if friends and family members don’t know what your relationship with your parent looked like.
It’s not wrong to not attend your parent’s funeral if doing so will severely damage your mental well
-being and/or puts your physical safety in jeopardy.
Can I 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 not want to attend a funeral?
If you can’t attend a funeral, simply
offer the family your regrets for not being able to
. Also offer your condolences. You do not have to give away your reason for not going if you don’t want to; that is your business.
How much money do you give at a wake?
A general rule of thumb is that donations should be
in line with the cost of a bouquet of funeral flowers
. Even just a nominal donation for people on tight budgets is a welcome gesture. Funeral flowers tend to cost in the range of $50 to $80 for a moderate to well-sized bouquet, and $100 or more for a large wreath.
What are words of comfort at a funeral?
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.
What do you take to a wake?
Bring edible gifts like casseroles, sandwiches, baked goods, or fruit baskets
so the family doesn’t have to worry about food. They may even share it with guests. Cards are also a great thing to bring to a wake at home, especially when you write a heartfelt message celebrating the deceased.
