Attending a Funeral: What to Know

Legacy offers advice from experts to help answer all of your funeral etiquette questions: What is the difference between a memorial service and a funeral? What should I say to the deceased's family at the visitation? Does it matter what I wear?

What to Wear to a Funeral (video)

This guide explains how to choose appropriate clothing for funerals and memorial services in today’s more casual world. It outlines respectful attire options for women, men, and children, with additional guidance for seasonal services, family members, and funerals with specific dress requests. Emphasizing modesty, neutral colors, and consideration for the grieving family, the article also clarifies what to avoid wearing and offers practical advice for situations where expectations are unclear. Overall, it helps readers balance personal comfort with tradition and respect, ensuring their appearance supports—not distracts from—the purpose of the service.

What Is a Wake?

A wake is one of the ceremonies some people perform after a death. It’s often used interchangeably with visitation or viewing, though historically it was a different kind of ceremony from our modern-day visitation.

Tips and Advice for Pallbearers

Serving as a pallbearer is a serious job, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

Sending flowers is a meaningful way to express sympathy after a death, but etiquette can feel unclear—especially around what to send, where to send it, and when flowers may not be appropriate. This guide answers common questions about funeral and sympathy flowers, including timing, arrangement types and sizes, message card wording, and practical delivery considerations. It also outlines respectful alternatives such as potted plants, food baskets, memorial gifts, or charitable donations, and highlights faith-based customs where flowers may be discouraged or require specific choices. Overall, it provides straightforward guidance to help you offer support thoughtfully and respectfully, whether or not you can attend the service.

What to Expect at a Memorial Service Held at Home

A casual setting can make it more comfortable to share memories.

Feeling Guilty About Missing a Friend's Funeral

Missing a funeral can bring up a lot of emotions, but guilt shouldn't necessarily be one of them.

Attending a Funeral: What's In It For You?

So many rituals, which bind us together, have fallen by the wayside in our society — and funerals are on the endangered species list.

What Is a Memorial Service?

This article explains what a memorial service is and how it differs from a traditional funeral, helping first-time attendees know what to expect. It outlines why memorial services are held without the body present, how their timing can be flexible, and why they are often more informal and personalized. Emphasizing remembrance and celebration of life, the guide describes common elements such as shared stories, music, and opportunities to connect with other attendees. It also offers practical etiquette tips on participation and expressing condolences, highlighting how personal memories can bring lasting comfort to the family.