It has become increasingly common for people to request cremation over a traditional funeral and burial when pre-planning their final arrangements. In turn, it’s important for friends and family members to be familiar with proper cremation ceremony etiquette. While every service is unique to the deceased’s personality, beliefs, and culture, there are some basic guidelines for memorializing the life of a loved one who has been cremated. Here are some things to remember when paying respects during a cremation ceremony. 

A Guide to Cremation Service Etiquette 

What to Wear 

In the past, mourners were expected to wear black clothing to a memorial service, but this is no longer the case. Just about any color is acceptable as long as the outfit is relatively conservative. Generally, it’s best to dress in the same attire as for a job interview, business meeting, or church. Mourners should avoid wearing jeans, athletic wear, t-shirts, and baseball hats. 

What to Contribute

It’s normal practice to send flowers after a death has occurred, which can then be put on display at the funeral service. However, cremation services tend to be more casual, and in place of flowers, many families will request photos that can be placed in a collage or slideshow of the deceased, or donations to go towards their favorite cause. 

How to Interact With Mourners

Knowing how to engage with someone who has recently lost a loved one can be challenging, and many people struggle to find the right words to say. The thing to keep in mind is that everyone in attendance is grieving, so it’s helpful for guests to simply communicate their support to family members. This can be done through a simple kind word or hug. 

How the Remains Are Handled 

Following a funeral service, it’s common practice for the casket to be transported directly to the burial site. With cremation, there is no formal burial. Instead, the deceased’s ashes may be placed in a columbarium, scattered in a special location, or put into an urn and kept in a family member’s home.  

If you need assistance making arrangements for a loved one whose final wishes were to be cremated, contact Middendorf Funeral Home. They have been committed to serving families throughout Northern Kentucky for more than 150 years. With the help of their compassionate staff, it will be simple to plan a cremation ceremony that appropriately honors your loved one. Call (859) 341-7800, or visit their website for information on the services they provide.