Memorial Service Etiquette Tips

You’ll want to show support to a friend or colleague who has lost someone in their family. If the deceased was cremated, chances are that the grieving family will hold a memorial service. Such an event can be held in a private home, in a church, or just about anywhere else. But do you know what to say, what to wear, or how to behave during the memorial? Here are some tips so that you mind your manners at a memorial service after Charleston, WV cremation services.

Tip: Consider Whether or Not You Should Attend

While it’s admirable that you want to support your friend or colleague, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you must or even should participate in everything connected to the memorial. Can you think of any reasons why you should not go to the memorial? Were there unresolved issues between you and the deceased or are you on bad terms with the grieving family? These are the sorts of things you should consider before you decide whether to go or to maybe send a condolence gift in lieu of your presence.

Tip: Be Mindful About What You Wear

A memorial tends to be more informal than a funeral service, so you won’t have as strict a dress code to worry about. But this doesn’t mean that you can wear whatever you want. So while you don’t have to wear all-black, you should remember that there’s no need to dress in a way that attracts undue attention to yourself. Instead of wearing loud colors, try something that’s less showy. Avoid revealing clothing or tight attire, and leave the flip flops at home. One rule of thumb is to wear something that would be acceptable to wear at a job interview.

Tip: Get There Early”¦But Not Too Early

It’s never a good idea to arrive late when the proceedings have already gotten underway. Get there early, perhaps about 10 or 15 minutes before things get started, so that you can find a seat. If you do happen to arrive late, don’t try to make your way to the front of the venue. Find a seat near the back so that you don’t unnecessarily disrupt the memorial.

Tip: Don’t Talk Too Much and Stay On Topic

It’s best to keep talking to a minimum during the memorial. Observe the proceedings and participate when it’s appropriate to do so. If there is a break in the proceedings and you do wish to talk to attendees nearby, stay on topic. Don’t talk about your job, your plans for the weekend, or anything else unrelated to the memorial, the deceased, or the grieving family.

These are just a few etiquette tips to be mindful of if you’ll be attending a memorial after cremation services in Charleston, WV. If you want more tips or need to talk to a funeral director about planning final services, get in touch with us at Barlow Bonsall Funeral Home & Crematorium. We offer funerals and cremations, and we have experience helping grieving families and helping individuals who want to preplan their own final services. Give us a call at (304) 342-8135 or visit us at 1118 Virginia St E Charleston, WV 25301 for the help you need.