The Dos and Don’ts of Funeral Etiquette

Funeral Home Oakland Today, the standards of proper funeral service etiquette are often more relaxed than they were in the past. However, there are still several things that you should and shouldn’t do when attending this type of event. If you’ve been invited to a funeral home for a service, then keep the following dos and don’ts in mind:

Do Check the Dress Code
For most funeral services, wearing all black and formal attire is not necessary. However, before deciding what to wear, look over the invitation to learn if any specifications about attire are included. If not, then choose clothing that is clean, neat, and respectful, and that is not too flashy or revealing.

Don’t Leave Your Phone On
Even if you leave your phone on silent, there is a good chance that you’ll be tempted to check it for messages or to read emails during the service. This behavior is more noticeable than you might imagine and is considered disrespectful, so it’s best to turn off your phone or leave it behind in the car.

Do Express Your Sympathy
When arriving, be sure to express your condolences to the surviving family members. It can be a challenge to find the right words to say to someone who is grieving, but a simple “I’m sorry for your loss” can be enough to show your sympathy. Also, bring or send flowers or a gift. If specified, you can make a charitable donation, instead.

Don’t Allow Your Children to Act Out
Deciding whether to bring your kids to a funeral is a personal decision that depends on your preferences. However, if your children do not wish to attend or are likely to be a disturbance during the funeral, then leaving them with a babysitter may be the best option.

If you’re searching for experienced and compassionate funeral services in Oakland, then look no further than Chapel of the Chimes Oakland . For information about what we offer, please contact our funeral home by calling (510) 654-0123.