It is best to dress conservatively in dark or neutral colors like black or grey. You should avoid wearing busy patterns and bright colors such as yellow, orange, or anything neon. Bold colors at a funeral can send the wrong message to family, which is the last thing you want to do when they are already grieving. You are there to honor someone you know, not yourself.
Tip: If you are unsure of your funeral apparel, ask the family if they have a dress code and follow their guidelines or suggestions.
It is ideal to arrive 10-15 minutes early to a funeral. Take time to meet other mourners before the service begins and pay your respects, then take your seat. If you arrive late, try your best to be as quiet as possible. Take a seat at one of the aisle chairs, or hang out in the back to ensure you do not interrupt the funeral in progress.
Typically, the front rows are reserved for close relatives and pallbearers. The following rows behind the front row are usually also reserved for close relatives. If you’re not a friend, acquaintance, co-worker, etc. it may be best to sit a few rows back to ensure the family has somewhere to sit.
At the end of the day, the most important thing Carlson Memorials wants you to remember at a funeral is to honor the individual the funeral is for. Always remember to be respectful and follow proper funeral etiquette.