Whether to have a funeral viewing or a funeral visitation is often one of the first decisions families face after a death, yet it is also among the most misunderstood aspects of funeral planning.
For some, the idea of seeing the deceased brings comfort and a sense of closure; for others, it raises uncertainty or emotional hesitation.
Understanding what is a funeral viewing and what is a funeral visitation will help a family make an informed decision during a difficult time.
This guidebook covers the most common questions that arise in relation to a funeral viewing and a funeral visitation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
Organization
- How to Organize a Funeral Viewing
- How to Organize a Funeral Visitation
- How to Organize a Combined Viewing and Visitation
Attire
- What to Wear to a Funeral Viewing
- What to Wear to a Funeral Visitation
- Illustrated Guides on What to Wear to a Viewing and Visitation
Etiquette
Condolences
Flowers
More Resources
What is a Funeral Viewing
A funeral viewing is a scheduled time when family and friends see the deceased before the funeral service.
When asking what is a funeral viewing, it helps to know the person’s body is usually present in a casket. The casket may be open or closed, depending on the family’s wishes.
A viewing is typically held one or two days before the funeral service. Sometimes it takes place on the same day as the funeral, shortly beforehand.
When considering what is a funeral viewing, think of it as a quiet opportunity for goodbye. Immediate family, extended relatives, friends, coworkers, and community members are usually invited.
Historically, home viewings were common, especially before modern embalming practices. Families gathered in private residences to sit with the deceased.
Today, most viewings take place at a funeral home. However, some still occur in a family home or place of worship.
Families choose a viewing to provide closure and shared grieving. Seeing the deceased can help make the loss feel real. It can also comfort mourners who travel from far away.
Some families decide against a funeral viewing for personal, religious, or emotional reasons. Others prefer privacy or choose cremation without viewing.
A viewing may last two to four hours. It can also extend over one or two days, depending on tradition.
When understanding what is a funeral viewing, remember it does not always require a separate visitation.
Sometimes viewing and visitation happen during the same scheduled event.
What is a Funeral Visitation
A funeral visitation is a designated time when people gather to offer condolences to the family.
When asking what is a funeral visitation, note that the body may or may not be present. This is one key difference from a viewing.
A visitation often takes place the day before the funeral. It may also occur on the same day as the service.
Unlike a viewing, the focus is more on supporting the family than seeing the deceased. Friends, neighbours, colleagues, and community members are typically invited.
Historically, visitations developed as structured times for public condolences. They became more common as funeral practices moved from private homes to funeral parlours.
Families may choose a visitation to create space for conversation and shared memories. It allows guests to speak privately with close relatives.
Some families choose not to hold a visitation due to personal preference or cultural tradition. Others prefer a small, private service instead.
A visitation usually lasts several hours. It may run for one evening or span multiple sessions.
When considering what is a funeral visitation, remember it can happen with or without a viewing. Some events combine both into one gathering.
Wake vs Funeral
Wake vs funeral is a common source of confusion.
Today, the term funeral usually refers to the formal service honouring the deceased. A wake often refers to a more informal gathering before the funeral.
When discussing wake vs funeral, geography matters. The term wake is widely used in Ireland and the United Kingdom.
It is also common in parts of Canada and the United States.
Historically, wakes were held in family homes. Friends and neighbours gathered to watch over the body overnight.
Food, storytelling, and prayer were central parts of the tradition.
In modern wake vs funeral conversations, wakes are often social and communal. They may include laughter alongside tears.
Families are drawn to wakes because they feel personal and intimate. The relaxed atmosphere encourages storytelling and connection.
While funerals tend to be structured and ceremonial, wakes can feel warm and conversational.
Understanding wake vs funeral helps families choose the tone that fits their loved one best.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing
It may feel overwhelming to plan a funeral viewing, especially if your emotions are raw.
We break down the steps that you will need to walk through during the planning process.
But rest assured, the funeral director who is working with you and your family will guide you every step of the way.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing Step 1 (Day 1): Meet the Funeral Director and Schedule the Viewing
The family will meet with the funeral director and schedule the funeral viewing.
They will confirm the date and time of the funeral viewing and whether it will be held publicly or privately.
The family and the funeral director will discuss venue options for the funeral viewing.
This typically includes the funeral home, church hall, or a private residence.
The family should choose a venue based on accessibility, parking, expected attendance, and cultural or religious needs.
During the first meeting with the funeral director, the family will also decide whether the body will be present at the funeral viewing or whether it will be a memorial gathering only.
If the body will be present, the family and the funeral director will discuss preparation and embalming of the body, as well as open or closed casket preferences.
During the meeting with the family, the funeral director may also advise the family on casket placement and room layout.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing Step 2 (Day 1–2): Choose Clothing and Appearance
The funeral director prepares the body deceased.
If the body will be present at the funeral viewing, the family should bring to the funeral home clothing that reflects the person’s personality, faith, or favourite style.
Choose outfits with higher necklines or long sleeves if preferred, as they often present well.
Provide undergarments, glasses, jewellery, and clear instructions about what should remain with the deceased.
Discuss makeup and hair styling with the funeral director and bring photos that show the loved one’s usual hairstyle and cosmetic preferences.
Keep instructions simple and natural, especially if the person rarely wore heavy makeup.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing Step 3 (Day 2–3): Plan the Setting
The family will need to provide the funeral director with a meaningful photograph that will be reproduced for display and for notices.
They should select a recent, warm photograph that shows their loved one’s expression clearly.
The family will work with the funeral director to plan meaningful details for the funeral viewing.
It is advisable to select gentle background music, favourite songs, or instrumental pieces that are suitable for the occasion.
When it comes to poems, prayers and reading, choose one that reflect the person’s values and that are the right length (not to long or too short).
The family should keep their selections simple, especially if emotions are still raw.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing Step 4 (Day 2–3): Notify Guests
The family of the deceased should call close family and friends personally before posting public announcements.
The funeral viewing details will be shared publicly through the deceased’s obituary, on the funeral home’s website, and through social media.
Details about the funeral viewing that should be provided include the date and time, address, and whether it is a public or private event.
If it a public event, the details provided may also include parking instructions and dress expectations.
How to Organize a Funeral Viewing Step 5 (Day 3–4): Obtain Final Confirmations
Before the funeral viewing, the family should confirm staffing, room layout, seating, guest book arrangements, and the timing with the funeral director.
The family of the deceased should arrive early on the day of the funeral viewing for a private family moment.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation
Organizing a funeral visitation may feel too daunting in the wake of a profound emotional loss.
Therefore, we offer you this simple to follow guide on what to expect when planning a funeral visitation.
We also want to reassure you that the funeral director that you are working with will guide you throughout the planning process.
He or she will ensure that the funeral visitation runs smoothly and is a meaningful gathering.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation Step 1 (Day 1): Meet the Funeral Director and Schedule the Visitation
The family will meet with the funeral director and schedule the funeral visitation.
They will confirm the date and time of the funeral visitation and whether it will be held publicly or privately.
The family and the funeral director will discuss venue options for the funeral visitation.
This may include the funeral home, a church hall, a community centre, or a private residence.
The family should choose a venue based on accessibility, parking, expected attendance, and cultural or religious needs.
During the first meeting with the funeral director, the family will also decide whether the body will be present at the funeral visitation or whether the gathering will take place without the body present.
If the body will be present, the family and the funeral director will discuss preparation of the deceased and whether the casket will be open or closed.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation Step 2 (Day 1–2): Choose Clothing and Appearance
The funeral director prepares the deceased if the body will be present at the funeral visitation.
The family should bring clothing to the funeral home that reflects how they wish their loved one to be remembered.
Choose garments that fit well and are comfortable to position.
Provide undergarments, glasses, jewellery, and clear written instructions about what should remain with the deceased.
Discuss hair styling and makeup preferences with the funeral director and bring a recent photograph for guidance.
If the funeral visitation will not include the body, the family may instead prepare a memory table or urn display.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation Step 3 (Day 2–3): Plan the Setting
The family will provide the funeral director with a meaningful photograph for display and publication.
They may also gather personal items, awards, or memorabilia that reflect the life of the deceased.
The family and the funeral director will discuss background music suitable for a funeral visitation.
When selecting readings or prayers, choose pieces that are brief and appropriate for a steady flow of guests.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation Step 4 (Day 2–3): Notify Guests
The family should notify close relatives and friends personally before issuing public announcements.
The funeral visitation details will be shared through the obituary, the funeral home’s website, and social media platforms.
Information provided should include the date, time, full address, and whether the funeral visitation is public or private.
The details provided may also include parking instructions and dress expectations.
How to Organize a Funeral Visitation Step 5 (Day 3–4): Obtain Final Confirmations
Before the funeral visitation, the family should confirm staffing, room layout, seating, and guest book arrangements with the funeral director.
The family should arrive early on the day of the funeral visitation to have a quiet moment together before guests arrive.
How to Organize a Combined Viewing and Visitation
When a family holds a combined funeral viewing and visitation on the same day, the event is usually structured as one continuous gathering.
In practical terms, many funeral homes treat a combined funeral viewing and visitation as a single block of time open to guests.
The body of the deceased may be present for the entire period, or for part of the scheduled time.
For example, the first hour may be reserved privately for close family, followed by a public visitation period.
From a planning perspective, there is very little logistical difference between holding a funeral viewing and visitation separately or together.
The key difference is usually language and expectation.
A funeral viewing often emphasizes the opportunity to see the deceased, while a visitation emphasizes greeting and supporting the family.
When both are combined, families should clearly communicate in the obituary whether the casket will be open, closed, or if an urn will be present.
This helps guests feel prepared and reduces uncertainty.
Timing is an important consideration. If large numbers are expected, allow enough hours so guests do not feel rushed.
Room layout also becomes more important during a combined funeral viewing and visitation.
There should be a clear flow for guests to approach the casket or display area and then move toward the family.
If cultural or religious traditions apply, discuss these with the funeral director in advance.
Another consideration is emotional stamina. Standing to greet guests for several hours can be exhausting.
Families may wish to rotate greeters or designate certain relatives to assist.
In most cases, combining the events simplifies scheduling and reduces costs, since venue rental and staffing are consolidated into one timeframe.
Ultimately, whether separate or combined, the goal remains the same: to create a respectful space for remembrance and support.
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What to Wear to a Funeral Viewing
If you are unsure what to wear to a funeral viewing, choose clothing that is respectful, modest, and understated.
When deciding what to wear to a funeral viewing, darker colours such as black, navy, grey, or deep green are traditionally appropriate.
Men attending a funeral viewing should consider wearing a suit and tie.
If a full suit feels too formal, dress pants with a collared shirt and blazer are appropriate.
Shoes should be clean, closed-toe, and conservative in style.
Women considering what to wear to a funeral viewing may choose a dress, skirt and blouse, or tailored pants with a modest top.
Hemlines should be knee-length or longer, and necklines should remain conservative.
Closed-toe flats, low heels, or simple dress shoes are most appropriate.
Children should dress neatly and comfortably when attending a funeral viewing.
Boys may wear dress pants with a collared shirt, while girls may wear a simple dress or skirt outfit.
When thinking about what to wear to a funeral viewing, jewellery should remain minimal and understated.
Small earrings, a watch, or a simple necklace are appropriate choices.
Makeup should be natural and subtle, avoiding bold colours or dramatic styles.
The venue may influence what to wear to a funeral viewing.
A church setting may call for slightly more formal attire, while a funeral home or private residence may allow business-casual clothing.
Always check the obituary for special requests, as some families ask guests to wear bright colours or meaningful items.
When in doubt about what to wear to a funeral viewing, it is better to be slightly overdressed than too casual.
What to Wear to a Funeral Visitation
If you are wondering what to wear to a funeral visitation, many of the same guidelines from a funeral viewing apply.
Please refer to the section above for detailed clothing suggestions for men, women, and children.
In general, what to wear to a funeral visitation should still be modest, respectful, and subdued.
Men may wear a suit, or dress pants with a collared shirt and blazer.
Women may choose a conservative dress, skirt, or tailored pants outfit.
Children should dress neatly and comfortably.
Jewellery and makeup guidelines for what to wear to a funeral visitation are the same as for a funeral viewing.
Keep accessories simple and makeup natural.
One difference when deciding what to wear to a funeral visitation is the tone of the event.
Some visitations feel more like an open house, with guests arriving and leaving over several hours.
In these cases, business-casual clothing may be acceptable, unless the family specifies otherwise.
The venue may also affect what to wear to a funeral visitation.
A church or cultural centre may require more formal attire than a private home gathering.
Always review the obituary for instructions about what to wear to a funeral visitation.
If you remain unsure what to wear to a funeral visitation, choose understated clothing that shows quiet respect.
Illustrated Guides on What to Wear to a Viewing and Visitation
Looking for more detailed advice on what to wear to a funeral viewing or what to wear to a funeral visitation?
Don’t worry, Love Lives On has you covered!
We have produced illustrated guides for appropriate funeral attire for men, women and children:
- Complete guide to funeral attire for men
- Complete guide to funeral attire for women
- Complete guide to funeral attire for kids
Funeral Viewing Etiquette
Understanding funeral viewing etiquette helps everyone feel more comfortable during an emotional time.
Funeral viewing etiquette encourages the family to greet guests, if they feel able.
Family members often stand near the casket or entrance to receive condolences.
If emotions become overwhelming, it is acceptable for the family to step away briefly.
Funeral viewing etiquette does not require the family to entertain guests.
Guests should arrive quietly and sign the guest book if provided.
Following funeral viewing etiquette, guests usually approach the casket respectfully and pause briefly.
A silent prayer, quiet reflection, or simple bow of the head is appropriate.
Guests are not required to view the body if they feel uncomfortable.
Funeral viewing etiquette suggests offering brief, sincere condolences to the family.
Simple phrases such as “I’m so sorry for your loss” are sufficient.
Keep conversations short unless the family initiates a longer discussion.
Funeral viewing etiquette discourages loud talking, phone use, or taking photographs unless permission is given.
Children should remain supervised and behave respectfully.
It is appropriate to follow cultural or religious customs observed at the funeral viewing.
The most important principle of funeral viewing etiquette is quiet respect for the deceased and compassion for the family.
Funeral Visitation Etiquette
Many principles of funeral visitation etiquette are similar to funeral viewing etiquette.
Please refer to the section above for guidance on respectful behaviour, brief condolences, and appropriate conduct.
Funeral visitation etiquette also encourages the family to greet guests, though seating arrangements may be more flexible.
At a funeral visitation, guests often move through more casually over several hours.
Funeral visitation etiquette allows for slightly longer conversations if the setting feels less formal.
However, discussions should remain considerate and not overly lighthearted.
Guests should still sign the guest book and offer condolences directly to close family members.
Funeral visitation etiquette discourages dominating the family’s time.
If refreshments are served, guests should partake modestly and avoid treating the event as a social gathering.
Children should be guided gently about expected behaviour.
As with funeral viewing etiquette, phones should be silenced.
Photography should only occur if the family has clearly permitted it.
The guiding principle of funeral visitation etiquette is respect, kindness, and sensitivity to the family’s emotional state.
What to Say at a Funeral Viewing
Many people worry about what to say at a funeral viewing.
The most important rule when deciding what to say at a funeral viewing is to keep your words simple and sincere.
Short, heartfelt statements are usually best. You might say, “I’m so sorry for your loss.”
You could also say, “She was a wonderful person,” or “He will be deeply missed.”
If you knew the deceased well, share a brief memory. For example, “I will always remember his kindness,” or “She made everyone feel welcome.”
When thinking about what to say at a funeral viewing, avoid long stories.
The family may be greeting many guests and feeling emotionally exhausted.
Avoid phrases that minimize grief. Do not say, “He’s in a better place,” or “At least she lived a long life.”
Even well-intended comments can feel dismissive.
When approaching an open casket, many people feel unsure what to say at a funeral viewing.
A quiet pause, silent prayer, or gentle touch on the casket is appropriate.
Avoid commenting on the appearance of the body. Do not say, “She looks so natural,” or “He doesn’t look like himself.”
Instead, speak to the family with compassion. A simple “I’m thinking of you” is enough.
If you cannot find words, your presence alone speaks volumes.
What to Say at a Funeral Visitation
Many of the same guidelines about what to say at a funeral visitation apply to a funeral viewing.
Please refer to the section above for examples of supportive and inappropriate phrases.
When considering what to say at a funeral visitation, keep your message brief and genuine.
You might say, “I’m so sorry for your loss,” or “My thoughts are with your family.”
If appropriate, share one short, positive memory. For example, “She always had a beautiful smile,” or “He was a true friend.”
When deciding what to say at a funeral visitation, avoid giving advice.
Do not say, “You need to stay strong,” or “Everything happens for a reason.” These comments can unintentionally add pressure.
A funeral visitation may feel slightly less formal. Conversations may last a little longer, but they should remain respectful.
When unsure what to say at a funeral visitation, remember that kindness matters more than perfect words.
A gentle tone and attentive listening are often the greatest gifts you can offer.
Funeral Viewing Flowers
Funeral viewing flowers help create a peaceful and comforting atmosphere.
Families often choose a large focal arrangement for the front of the room.
Common shapes for funeral viewing flowers include standing sprays, wreaths, crosses, and heart-shaped tributes.
Standing sprays are displayed on easels and are highly visible near the casket.
Wreaths symbolize eternal life and are often circular in shape.
Families may also select casket sprays that rest directly on top of the casket.
Popular flower choices for funeral viewing flowers include lilies, roses, carnations, chrysanthemums, and orchids.
White flowers are traditional, symbolizing peace and remembrance.
Soft pastels or the deceased’s favourite colours are also meaningful choices.
Guests often wonder whether to bring funeral viewing flowers.
Unless the obituary requests donations instead of flowers, floral tributes are appropriate.
Guests may choose smaller arrangements, sympathy bouquets, or vase arrangements that are easy to transport.
Neutral tones or gentle colours are usually safest.
Avoid very bright or heavily scented arrangements unless you know the family prefers them.
After the funeral viewing, the family may take funeral viewing flowers home.
Flowers are sometimes divided among close relatives or delivered to a cemetery.
Some families donate arrangements to hospitals or care homes.
For more information on appropriate flower arrangements, please read Love Lives On’s Ultimate Guide to Funeral Flowers.
Funeral Visitation Flowers
Funeral visitation flowers also create a warm and respectful setting.
The family may display large floral pieces near a memory table, urn, or entrance.
As with funeral viewing flowers, standing sprays and wreaths are common choices.
Tabletop arrangements and basket displays are also popular at a funeral visitation.
Flower varieties typically include roses, lilies, carnations, and seasonal blooms.
Colour schemes may reflect tradition, faith, or the personality of the deceased.
Guests often ask whether funeral visitation flowers are appropriate.
If flowers are welcomed, smaller sympathy arrangements or elegant bouquets are thoughtful options.
Choose soft, coordinated colours unless the family has requested something specific.
Arrangements should be manageable in size so they do not overcrowd the room.
Following the funeral visitation, the family usually decides what happens to the flowers.
Some funeral visitation flowers are taken to the cemetery or graveside service.
Others may be shared with family members or donated within the community.
When in doubt about funeral visitation flowers, check the obituary for guidance or contact the funeral home directly.
Love Lives On’s Ultimate Guide to Funeral Flower is a great resource if you need more guidance or inspiration.
How Love Lives On Can Help
We hope you found our guide on funeral viewing and funeral visitation helpful, whether you are the family of the deceased or an invited guest.
You may be interested to know that Love Lives On has a comprehensive library of articles on funeral planning, grieving, and celebrating your loved one’s life in unique ways.
Here are some other popular posts on our website that you may find helpful:
- A complete guide to casket choices
- Burial options that are available today
- How to help someone who is grieving
- Coping with the 5 stages of grief
- Best examples to inspire you when writing a eulogy
- 100+ celebration of life ideas
- 150+ funeral poems to personalize a loved one’s service
We know that losing a loved one is a difficult experience.
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You can trust that businesses with Featured Listings meet the highest standards for quality, professionalism and reliability.
Finally, on behalf of all of us at Love Lives On, please accept our deepest condolences for your loss.
