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A time of bereavement is never easy, for those directly affected and for acquaintances. When sending a sympathy card or attending calling hours, there are certain etiquette procedures that are expected. Setting aside religious expectations, some general guidelines can safely be followed for most cards and calling hours.
Calling hours, sometimes referred to as funeral visitations, refer to a tradition most common in Catholic and Protestant faiths in which friends and acquaintances gather at a funeral home to view the body and offer condolences to the family. Information about calling hours is often provided in an obituary; you can also call the funeral home for information.
Wakes and funerals can be stressful events, and the last thing you want to be concerned about is whether your attire is appropriate for the occasion. When making your decisions, simply consider the wishes of the deceased and of the bereaved. Select something conservative, dark and culturally appropriate, then concentrate on paying your respects in a thoughtful and sincere manner.
Weddings and wedding etiquette are different than they used to be. There once was a prescribed script that all bridal parties and guests followed. There were subtle differences depending on the time of day of the wedding. There were certainly differences if the wedding was in a church or a synagogue, but much more was the same than different. These days people get married on beaches, in woods and at circuses, even at Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Couples write their own vows, use more than one officiant, have a best woman instead of a best man and bridesmen instead…
Sometimes knowing what to do at a funeral can be difficult, especially when you are dealing with the bereaved. You want to be polite and say the right things, but funerals can be mine fields to navigate. Here are some steps for proper etiquette.
Dressing for a funeral is different than dressing for any other occasion. You usually dress for yourself but at the funeral, you are dressing out of respect for the deceased and his family. Your outfit is a respectful representation of your grief. Follow these hints to dress for a funeral.
