What to do during wakes or visitations

by Sophia Reyes / September 6, 2017

Wake Etiquette 101

In your whole entire lifetime, there will definitely come a time where you have to go visit a wake. Truth be told most of the time you never know how to act or what to say. Here are some ways you can show respect and your condolences.

1. Make sure to arrive when during visitation hours. You’ll never know if the family of the deceased wants a private time.
2. Before getting in the room where the wake is taking place, sign your name on the guest book.
3. Quietly come in, if the room is full of people, fall in line to greet the family of the deceased.
4. Introduce yourself to the family of the deceased and offer your condolences.
5. Size up the family of the bereaved as to how much time you may spend chatting with them. Remember they are very tired and sad at this point. The grieving process has begun and the whole reality that someone so dear passed away.
6. Do what you can to help their situation by listening more to the bereaved.
7. Pass by the person who passed and say a prayer to pay respect to both the family and the deceased.
8. When getting food always line up properly. Once you’re done with the food always dispose of it properly.
9. It would be a big help if you can be sociable with the other guests. You will learn more from the conversations of others.
10. What to wear? Smart casual is most fitting. Dress smart and avoid wearing red or any bright color.
11. Never raise your voice. During times like these the chances of you seeing old friends may occur but as your are excited, try to restrain yourself to avoid making loud noises.
12. Put your phone on silent mode to avoid unnecessary distractions.
13. If you’re gonna make or take a call quietly step out from the wake.
14. Say good bye before leaving. Thank them for their hospitality and then once again offer your condolences.

The name of the game for wake etiquette 101 is consideration and to remember it’s all about the deceased and the grieving family.