What’s considered proper etiquette is changing all the time. This includes funeral home etiquette. With all the changing rules, it can be hard to know how to act at a funeral home in Castro Valley, CA., but it’s vital that you are up to date on what personal, religious or cultural considerations you need to make for the deceased’s family and friends. If you need a bit more guidance on what to do and what not to do in a funeral home, keep reading.

What to do in a funeral home:

• Offer Sympathy: It’s almost always appropriate to offer sympathy to the deceased’s friends and family. Oftentimes a simple “I’m sorry for your loss” is all you need. Always remember to be respectful, but feel free to offer your own personalized condolences.
• Find out the Gift Preferences: Its tradition to bring some sort of gift for the deceased or the family. Usually flowers are the best choice, but sometimes the family requests charitable donations in lieu of flowers. Always be sure to include a note or a signature so the knows who the gift is from.
• Sign the Book: The registry book may seem silly, but it can be an important way for the family to look back and enjoy who came to honor their lost loved one. Include your name and relationship to the deceased for easy identification in the future.
• Inquire About the Dress Code: Black is the classic funeral color, but sometimes the event or the family calls for a different look. If you’re unable to discover the family’s wishes, dress conservatively and avoid bright colors.
• Reach Out: Don’t be afraid to reach out to the family after the funeral. A simple phone call may go a long way in comforting them in their difficult time.

What not to do in a funeral home:

• Bring Overactive Children: Loud or disturbing children have no place in a funeral home. It’s all right to bring the kids if they understand how to be respectful, but if not, leave them with a sitter.
• Avoid the Family or Receiving Line: A quick hug, hello, or “sorry for your loss” goes a long way with a grieving family. Never skip the receiving line, even if it’s long.
• Leave Your Cell Phone On: Turn your phone to silent! Also, never check your messages during the funeral service. It can wait.
• Stifle Your Emotions: Its ok to laugh and cry at a funeral home. The deceased’s life was filled with emotion, so it makes sense for his or her funeral to be too.
• Overstay Your Welcome: Don’t feel like you have to stick around the funeral home for too long. Sometimes a quick condolence is enough.

If you want to learn more about Castro Valley, CA funeral homes and proper etiquette, please reach out to Deer Creek Funeral Service. You can visit us at 20630 Redwood Rd Castro Valley, CA 94546, or give us a call at (510) 317-7890.