Funeral etiquette

Picking the right outfit can feel like a tough choice when attending a funeral. What exactly is acceptable attire at a funeral? Does that change during the winter months or summer months? What if you don’t own a black suit? The good news is – there are tons of variations for what makes a “classy” fu

If you’re not sure what to take to a celebration of life, don’t panic. Celebrations of life can have confusion around what to bring–the event is often thought to be more warm and joyous than a funeral, but does that al

Do you know what to say to someone who is going to a funeral? How about what not to say? If you’re not sure, you’re in the right place. Funerals can be tense – the atmosphere is often full of so

Writing a condolence note to a coworker is a kind gesture after they’ve lost a loved one. Losing a loved one can cause individuals to feel isolated and alone in their pain. Even if you’re not close to the coworker, expressing your sympathies is an easy way to offer your support. If you’ve never sign

Choosing the right suit to wear to a funeral can feel like a big decision. You want to show up in something you’re comfortable wearing but also want to be respectful of the family’s wishes and traditions. The good news is that choosing a funeral suit does not have to be complicated and can be done i

Words of comfort, encouragement, and support are incredibly important when someone has learned that a family member or loved one is sick or dying. They may feel alone, isolated, and unsupported without overt

When someone passes away, it can be difficult to know what to say, regardless of who it is. If you're unable or don’t feel comfortable visiting or calling someone, sending condolences in the form of text messages can provide comfort and solace to the bereaved. If you've never done it before, here's

If you've ever been to a cemetery or seen one in a movie, you've likely encountered the imagery of someone leaving flowers at a grave of a loved one. But have you ever wondered about the etiquette behind this graveside tradition? There are a few graveside etiquette rules to keep in mind when lea

When someone dies, it’s common for people to send funeral flowers to the family or to the funeral as a show of support and sympathy. However, even though it’s common to send flowers, you may feel unsure of the correct action, especially if you’re either really close to the family or not close at all

Being separated or estranged from a family member can be a difficult experience. There may be many reasons why you are not in contact with them, such as a toxic history, divorce, or simply not getting along. If a family member dies, it can be even more complicated. Do you attend the funeral? Is it a

When someone we know dies, it is natural to want to attend the funeral to pay our respects, but sometimes attending a funeral isn’t possible or isn’t desirable. There can also be confusion about proper funeral etiquette surrounding who should attend a funeral. Is attending a coworker's funeral typic

When a celebration of life is announced, many people are unsure if they should come to the celebration in somber colors or bright colors. Is it considered bad taste to wear black or dark colors to a celebration of life? What about bright colors? Knowing the right outfit to choose can be confusing, b

Knowing who to send thank you notes to and who can go without after a funeral can be confusing. For example, should you send thank you notes for funeral flowers? Should you send a thank you note to someone who made a long journey to attend the funeral? Funeral thank you etiquette isn’t black and whi

Condolences typically were given at a funeral or via handwritten notes or cards, but with the invention of the internet, many have turned to email and online messaging as a way to express their condolences. Sending condolences is customary after someone dies, and most people will appreciate you gett

If you’ve never been to a funeral service or memorial service before, it can be difficult to know what’s expected to you. Do you have flowers delivered before you arrive? Should you bring the family your home cooked meal at the service itself? What’s the protocol? Here’s what you need to know about