Preparing for a Funeral-Service

The first thing that comes to mind after losing a loved one is arranging a memorable service at funeral homes Hellertown, PA, for the deceased. Aside from taking care of traditional funeral services and items, the bereaved family has to think about receiving condolences from the guests and ensure everything goes as planned. 

Believe it or not, but it’s normal to hear awkward questions and messages along with words of sympathy. This guide aims to help you understand how to handle various activities on the day of the funeral. 

What to Wear 

You don’t need to wear all-black attire. However, dress up in conservative clothing to show your respect and honor for the lost loved one. Avoid wearing too bright or loud patterns as it may give you unnecessary attention among the guests and send the wrong message to your visitors. 

The same dress code applies to both men and women. Remember that overdressing is a far better choice than dressing in casual or revealing attire. 

Brace Yourself for Questions 

You’ll get tons of condolence and sympathy messages from the visitors and at the same time, be prepared to hear words of comfort that may seem inappropriate. Clichés such as “It was his/her time”, “It’ll be over soon”, “It was all God’s plan”, and “I know exactly how you feel because I lost my….” are far too common. 

A simple “Thank You” from your side would suffice. However, if the loved one experienced an unexpected or sudden death due to an accident or anything, be prepared for “How” questions. It’s better to prepare a short response without telling the whole story to everyone. 

What to Serve in Food and Beverages 

You can serve the guests whatever you want. It’s always nice to offer regular drinks such as coffee or tea or a collection of cold drinks alongside snacks to your visitors. If your budget allows, serve the deceased’s favorite food or beverage to the guests as a tribute to the lost loved one. 

How to Meet and Treat Guests

Expect to be surrounded by loved ones during the funeral service. Everyone wants to offer condolences and talk to you about the departed soul. If possible, give a few seconds to each guest but if there’s a large crowd, focus on a select few. 

Internment or Inurnment (Graveside Service)

When the body is transported to the burial or cremation site, a small public or private ceremony is held for internment (lowering the casket into the ground) or an inurnment (placing the deceased’s cremated remains in a columbarium). 

This service can be a formal or informal one depending on your preferences. It usually involves immediate family members and close accomplices of the departed soul and is marked by a spirit of dignity and respect at the gravesite. It is customary to keep the gravesite service brief. You may even return to funeral homes Hellertown, PA, for the reception.