What do you do at a funeral wake?

What is a Wake? A wake, also known as a viewing, visitation or gathering, typically occurs before the funeral takes place. An urn or a casket is typically present, and the casket may be opened or closed. At this time, people pay their respects and offer condolences to loved ones of the departed.

What to do during a wake?

It's not mandatory to view the body, but you can stop and say a silent prayer if you wish. After passing the casket, approach the family and introduce yourself if necessary. Say a few kind words about the deceased, shake their hands, give them hugs, offer a warm smile – any small gesture will be appropriate.

How do you act at a funeral wake?

Dress nicely, but you don't need to be too formal. The standard protocol for a funeral visitation is to stop by, introduce yourself to the family (if needed) and pay your condolences, and then leave after a short period of time.

How long does a wake last?

A wake typically lasts anywhere from two to six hours depending on the circumstances. They hold them in the early evening hours of the day preceding the funeral service.

What do you bring to a wake?

Funeral Etiquette Guide - How To Behave, Dress Code + DO's & DON'Ts

What not to say at a wake?

Don't tell friends or family members who are grieving that their loved one has gone to a better place. Never call the death a blessing or speculate that it was that person's time. Avoid saying anything that suggests that the loss of the loved one is a positive thing.

What is expected at a wake?

A wake, also known as a viewing, visitation or gathering, typically occurs before the funeral takes place. An urn or a casket is typically present, and the casket may be opened or closed. At this time, people pay their respects and offer condolences to loved ones of the departed.

What are you supposed to wear to a wake?

Business casual is typically acceptable. Stay away from festive or fun attire. Sometimes families choose to encourage the celebration of their loved one's life at the wake. If that is the case, wearing festive clothing is totally acceptable.

Do you wear black to a wake?

When thinking about what to wear to a wake, women have to remember that this is a somber occasion, it is best to choose conservative colors and styles. You don't have to wear black, but it is acceptable if you decide to wear all black. Other colors include navy blue, gray, blush colors, and neutrals such as beige.

Do you give money at a wake?

It's common for people to give money at birthdays, weddings, but at funerals giving money isn't always a respectful gift. However, the protocols can sometimes be altered and people may still offer money if that's how they feel, or the grieving family needs the help.

Do you wear black to a funeral wake?

Do you have to wear black to a funeral? In short, no. When it comes to knowing what to wear to a funeral that's not black, there are an array of alternatives that men and women can wear. Although black is the most traditional of colors, smart and dark clothing is also acceptable.

Who attends a wake?

The body is present at this time for people to pay their respects and offer condolences to loved ones of the deceased. Generally speaking, the public is invited to attend the wake, even if there's no personal relationship with the family.

What happens after a funeral wake?

It's typical in the U.S. to start with a wake, viewing, or visitation, followed by a funeral or memorial service and a burial or inurnment. Close friends and family will often attend all of the services, from wake through burial.

Is it OK to just attend the wake?

Attending the wake isn't necessary. Especially if you didn't know the deceased's family well. But attending the wake can communicate to the family how much this friendship meant to you.

Do you need to bring a gift to a wake?

An edible gift (think fruit baskets, sandwich plates or baked goods) is always a good thing to bring to a wake, especially if it's held in a private home. Cards can also be brought with you to a private wake.

What are the traditions of a wake?

Traditionally, windows of a wake house are left open to let the soul leave the room, mirrors are covered or turned around, clocks are stopped, and household pets are kept out for the duration of the wake. It is also customary for candles to be kept lit.

Can you wear jeans to a funeral wake?

Can you wear jeans to a funeral? The most common answer is that jeans aren't considered appropriate funeral etiquette unless requested by the family. However, dark, unembellished jeans paired with a shirt, tie, and blazer for men or a blouse and a blazer for women can be appropriate for a casual service.

Do you wear jewelry to a wake?

Typically, a pair of earrings and a necklace are fine. But try not to wear jewellery that is too eye-catching. For this case, simple necklaces and stud earrings are preferred. But if the deceased had gifted you with a piece of jewellery, now would be a good time to wear it, no matter the design.

How much do you give for a funeral wake?

How Much Should You Give? The traditional gift is the amount you would have spent on flowers for the service, generally between $50 and $100.

What is the purpose of a wake?

What is a wake? A wake, also known as a funeral reception, is an event where close friends and family of the deceased gather together to pay their respects to their loved one. Traditionally, a wake referred to the viewing held before the funeral, but nowadays it's usually held after the funeral or memorial service.

What is the difference between a wake and a funeral?

For example, a wake is a more informal time for visitation and remembrance of the dead, whereas a funeral typically contains structured rituals and is often religious in nature. It's common for a family to have both a wake and a funeral in order to commemorate the death of a loved one.

What does family wear to a wake?

A wake might be slightly less formal than a funeral, but it still requires a polished, put-together look. A nice sweater and trousers are about as casual as you can go. Better to wear a jacket, neat shirt or blouse and trousers or skirt. Avoid big patterns, sequins, or anything that makes noise.

Are there speeches at a wake?

It's common for the family to ask if any guests wish to speak at the funeral. Speaking at a funeral is a great way to express your feelings about the loss of a loved one, particularly if you were close to this person. You also might give a speech if you're close to a family member of the deceased.

Who speaks at a wake?

The speech is ideally given by someone who knew the person well enough to gather and share memories and highlights of his/her life. Sometimes the choice is obvious within the family. There is often one person who seems to be the unofficial family spokesperson.

Is it rude not to go to a wake?

As with a funeral service, if you are invited to a wake, viewing, or visitation you should feel free to go. If the event is limited to family only, you should respect the family's wishes and not attend.