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.
Most people place a single enlarged photograph of a deceased member in the the room as a sign of respect and honor. It should reveal the positive aspects of personality. It is important that you remain at the entrance to greet all guests who attend the ceremony.
The parlor may provide a guestbook to sign as individuals enter the facility. Do not forget to consider the catering including light snacks and drinks for those who have made the time to attend the visitation. The facility may not provide the foodstuffs and therefore alternative arrangements will have to be made.
Hosting a funeral wake requires a fair amount of planning with a focus on honoring the memory of the deceased. It can involve sessions of grief or a time to celebrate their life. Parlors can assist in providing for such an event and in making the best possible decisions.
