Memorial Service Etiquette Tips

If you have had a friend pass away, you may be asked to attend the memorial service that is held in their honor after their cremation services in Boonville, CA. While you want to attend to show your respect, if you have not attended a service like this before, it may bring on feelings of stress or anxiety. This is mostly because it is a new situation and you are not familiar with the proper etiquette to follow. As long as you follow the three basic etiquette tips outlined in this article, you will be fine. 

First and Foremost: Be on Time 

Being late is never good etiquette and this is especially true when it comes to a memorial service. Showing up on time is one of the most important things you can do. This shows respect for the deceased and the grieving family and ensures you will not interrupt the services once they have started. 

And when we say on time, we mean show up 15 minutes early. This should give you ample time to find parking as well as a place to sit at the service. If for some reason you do happen to show up late, make sure not to interrupt the service. Simply enter the room and find a seat that is close to avoid walking through the space and creating a distraction. 

Do Not Sit in the First Couple of Rows 

Knowing where to sit during the service can bring on all kinds of anxious feelings. You don’t want to sit too far away and seem uninterested, but how close is too close to sit in the front? The one thing to remember here is that you are welcomed to sit just about anywhere expect the first few front rows as these rows are reserved for the family of the deceased. 

Also, it can be customary for the rest of the family to sit on the right half of the room, while friends and acquaintances sit on the left. However, this rule is not always followed and if you happen to sit on the wrong side, nobody will mind. 

No Cell Phones 

In this day and age it seems like our cell phones are permanently tied to our hands. While this can be fine for some situations, a memorial service is not one of them. If you can leave your cell phone at home or in the car then by all means, do so. If you cannot, make sure it is on silent mode or turned off. The last thing you want to do is to create a horrible interruption with your cell phone going off in the middle of the service. 

Final Thoughts 

Attending a memorial service for a friend can be an intimidating experience. Not knowing where to sit or what is expected of you can fill you with anxiety. Just remember to breathe and follow the tips we have outlined here today. Also know that most likely, the other guests are feeling the same way you are. 

If you would like more information about memorial events after cremation services in Boonville, CA. please reach out to u anytime as our compassionate staff is always here for you.