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The day of the funeral
Having made all the necessary arrangements, there should not be too much for you to think or worry about on the day of the funeral itself, although close relatives can feel a little anxious as the time approaches.
The funeral director will guide you on what to do as the funeral unfolds. There is no set protocol for seating arrangements but priority is usually given to the principal mourners. We can ensure that mourners are guided appropriately.
There is no set procedure for a funeral but traditionally the funeral procession starts at the house of the person who has died - or sometimes the hospital or funeral home - with the co n and cars travelling to the place where the funeral service will take place. The hearse sometimes goes straight to the service and mourners meet there.
The co n is taken into where the funeral service is to be held and close family members usually follow and sit at the front. For a burial, the co n will be taken to the grave and lowered into the grave while a short service is held.
For a cremation, the co n will be taken to the crematorium and placed on a stand. Towards the end of the service music is played and traditionally the co n disappears from view. If
you want the co n to remain on view until after the mourners have left, please tell the funeral director. Remember that there will be a time limit for the service. You can book more time at the crematorium if you like, although this may cost extra. We can advise on times and costs.
There is no set dress code for a funeral but we suggest that mourners should dress appropriately to express their feelings on the day. This may well be a black suit but conversely it could be a sports shirt if the circumstances dictate.
Reception after the funeral
The reception after the funeral, which is sometimes called the wake, is an opportunity to mourn the passing of the person who has died and, as importantly, to celebrate their life. The reception also gives friends and relatives the opportunity to express their condolences and support for the deceased person’s close family.
Choosing a location
You need to decide the sort of gathering that you and other family members want. The deceased person may well have made their own preferences clear either to the family or in a letter of wishes. If you decide to use a local hall, restaurant or other location you should make the booking as soon as you have decided the date for the funeral. We will be able to help both in choosing
an appropriate location and in making the booking.
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