When attending a funeral service, it’s important to support the family and close loved ones of the deceased. There are some basic rules and guidelines you should follow as an attendee to ensure you don’t cause a scene or distract from the main purpose of the event. Here are a few of the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind the next time you attend a funeral service.

Do:

Arrive early.

You should arrive at a funeral with enough time to greet the family and pay your respects to the deceased before the actual service begins. Avoid cutting it so close that you walk in at the last moment or disrupt the service.

Choose a seat carefully.

Usually, the seats in the first few rows are reserved for immediate family and close loved ones. Pay attention to any directions and notice where others are sitting to find what’s most appropriate. For example, if you’re an extended family member, you may want to sit near the back of the facility where others in your family are seated.

Don’t:

Overwhelm the bereaved.

When attending a funeral service, you’re there to support the family and close loved ones. You should speak with them, but don’t be extra clingy or overly emotional in front of them. Read their body language and give them space when necessary, while still letting them know that you’re available in case they need anything.

Wear bright colors.

It’s customary to wear dark, neutral colors to funerals. You don’t necessarily need to wear black from head to toe, but stick with modest clothing in dark or neutral shades, unless the family has specifically requested otherwise.

If you need to arrange a funeral service for a loved one or are interested in learning more about funeral planning options, contact Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska, WI. Serving Trempealeau and La Crosse counties, the funeral home has been providing care and planning assistance to families throughout the area since 1926. You’ll connect with a single funeral planner who can walk you through all of the options and guide you through the entire process. Visit them online or call (608) 783-9777 to discuss your funeral service options.