A cremation service is like a traditional burial in many ways. It can include a viewing, wake, or church service, with or without the body or cremated remains present. If you’re planning to attend or organize one of these ceremonies, the following will help you know what to expect.

What Happens During a Cremation Service?

During a cremation service, mourners often gather at a specified venue, such as a religious building or a designated room in the crematorium itself. The service can be led by a celebrant who performs religious rites or a loved one of the decedent. The ceremony often includes eulogies, songs, or prayers.

What Should You Wear?

Conservative clothing, like dress shirts and slacks for men and pantsuits for women, are typically recommended for funeral services. Avoid bright colors or casual wear like sneakers or jeans. This is especially true if the service is held in a church or a crematorium.

However, the dress code may be informed by the setting. If you choose to hold the service in your home or on a beach, casual wear may be acceptable. Let your guests know if you have a preference.

What Happens After?

After the service is over, you may decide to host a wake to honor your loved one. A wake is a reception in which mourners can socialize and share memories of the deceased over food and drinks. If you plan to scatter their ashes, you may invite your loved ones to participate in this experience as well.

Losing a loved one is difficult, so planning for their funeral can be particularly challenging. To ease that burden, turn to Cremation Service of Western New York in Rochester, NY. Since 1991, they’ve provided residents of Monroe County with a full range of funeral services, from funeral pre-planning to filing the necessary documents. For more information on their services, call (585) 544-4500 or visit them online.