Etiquette makes people comfortable and at ease and it shows that we value and respect others. What more appropriate time to conform to etiquette standards than at a funeral? When attendees are mourning the loss of a loved one, the more appropriate and well-behaved the guests, the better for those suffering from grief.
What to Wear
In the past, most people chose to wear only black, gray or navy to funerals. This fashion rule has relaxed in recent years. Keep in mind that this is a serious occasion and your attire should reflect that sentiment. Do not wear anything that draws unnecessary attention, but something simple, neat and clean.
Be on Time
Arrive a few minutes before the service is scheduled to begin. If you arrive late, enter the room quietly and find a seat using a side aisle, not the center aisle. Find a seat in the center or back of the room. The front rows are often reserved for family and specific friends. If you arrive after the processional has started, remain outside and enter once those in the processional are all seated.
Cell Phones
Turn off your smartphones. Do not simply set them to vibrate because during quiet or somber moments of the service those vibrations may still be distracting. Keep your phone put away and do not glance at the screen during the service. Do not take any pictures during the service itself. Save picture taking for more appropriate times such as during the reception and visitation times.
Leaving
Do not leave during the service unless you urgently need to use the restroom, begin coughing uncontrollably or need to remove a child who is crying. Be as quiet and discreet as possible. Do not return to create a second interruption.
Recessional
Follow the lead of the congregational leader. The recessional ends the service, and the officiant usually designates the pallbearers to start the recessional, followed by the family. Each row may then walk out in order. Do not converse with relatives during the recessional to prevent any pile up of guests trying to leave. Find a place out of the way of the crowd to conduct any conversations.
Driving
If a burial follows the service and is located within driving distance a vehicle procession may follow the hearse and cars transporting the family. It is appropriate to turn on your headlights and follow the car in front of you without letting non-funeral attendee vehicles from entering the procession.
If you had a loved one pass away recently and need assistance with probate, contact the estate administration attorneys at Stouffer Legal in the Greater Baltimore area. You can schedule an appointment by calling us at (443) 470-3599 or emailing us at office@stoufferlegal.com.
