Wake/Funeral Question?

Question

what is the difference between these two?

what should one wear to each?

what exactly do you do?

what should you bring to each?

Answer 1

The Wake is also known as the Visitation. Usually in the Funeral Home. Not too many take place in the home.

The Funeral is the actual service, this could take place at a church or at the Funeral Home most often in a chapel.

Unless otherwise stated, dark clothing professional, semi dressy should be worn, Unless the family wishes otherwise.

It is not required that you bring anything to either events. Often just your presence and sharing a memory is the best thing that you can do. If you would like to bring something a card, or a floral arrangement is always welcomed.

As others have stated it is not a good idea to bring in food unless the family has requested you to do so. Most Viewings/Wakes are at the mortuary and most mortuaries do not allow food. If you would like to go to food route you can always take to the home, where i am sure  that it will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 2

Wake: A watch over the body of a deceased person before burial, sometimes accompanied by festivity.

Funeral: A ceremony or group of ceremonies held in connection with the burial or cremation of a dead person.

It's customary to wear black formal wear to a Wake or Funeral, but not required.

For a wake, you would merely chat with others about your memories of the deceased, and comfort the family and friends. You might be asked, or given the option to speak of the deceased (the eulogy).

You don't need to bring anything but sometimes, people bring food to a wake to help out with the cost of hosting it. That or make a donation to a group fund for caterers. You could send flowers as well.

Answer 3

the wake is usually a day before the funeral.  It usually starts around 3-4 pm for family only and then opens later for friends.  Basically its just where u go view the body, be with the family, share your condolences and such.  The funeral is the actual service and then trip to the grave yard for burial.  Most people wear black.  Just dress nicely. you wouldnt necessarily need to bring anything....you could send flowers, or sometimes people will bake food and take it to the immediate family of the deceased.

Answer 4

A wake, I believe,is like a viewing and you stay there all night. People usually bring food to these because they're usually held at homes.

The funeral is when it's held in the church or place or choice and speeches are given and the body is put to rest. Flowers are a good thing to bring here.

You should wear formal (work or church-like) black clothes. No excessive makeup.

Sorry for your loss.