The hosting of wakes are based on an ancient tradition where the family was required to remain awake at the side of the body until it is ready to be moved to the church. From the place of storage at a church it would be prepared for the burial or the cremation process. The preparation of a funeral wake requires a number of considerations for a smooth and memorable process.
Should a close friend or family member pass away, it places a great deal of emotional and financial strain on relatives. To host a memorial ceremony, those who shared in the life of the deceased should be notified including an obituary. Contacting the relevant guests should include the date, time, and the place for the service.
The funeral home is often responsible for the hosting of such a ceremony. The facility should be notified of the number of guests that will attend and the preparation required for the body. Flowers and similar decorations can be placed in the room for an honorable service.
Individuals often prefer to place a picture of the deceased near the entrance or the casket. It serves to honor memory and appearance as it reflects the positive moments of life. One needs to be present to greet the guests as they arrive who will be allowed to share their condolences and empathy.
Guestbooks may be included by the parlor as an opportunity for guests to write personalized messages to the family. Food and drink should be provided for the guests who attend the proceeding. Not all parlors will include catering costs in a quotation and should be made provision for.
A funeral wake serves to respect on honor the memory of the deceased. The more traditional approach allows for sharing in the grief process while others wish to make it a celebratory event for the life of the person who has passed on. Finding the right parlor can ease the process and offer the most valuable options.
