When faced with the loss of a loved one, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various ceremonies and traditions that honour their memory. Understanding the differences between a wake, a funeral service, and a viewing can provide clarity, and help you make informed decisions during this difficult time.
In this guide, we will explain each ceremony, compare them, and provide a helpful summary table to aid your understanding.
A wake is a gathering of family and friends to pay respects to the deceased following burial or cremation. Traditionally, wakes were held in the home of the deceased, but today they often take place at a funeral home, or another fitting venue.
The atmosphere of a wake can vary; it may be a solemn occasion or more of a celebratory event, depending on the cultural and personal preferences of the family, friends, and the deceased.
Wakes provide a flexible way to say goodbye that isn’t defined or restricted by tradition. The duration of the ceremony can range from a few hours to a full day or even longer, depending on the family's wishes. So, loved ones have as much time as they need to share memories, offer condolences, and support each other in their grief.
Those who opt for a direct cremation, followed by a wake, benefit from a simple, respectful final disposition without the formality of a traditional funeral. This combination complements each other well, offering both personal connection and a straightforward, affordable option.
A funeral service is a formal ceremony held to pay respects and remember the deceased. It usually takes place before a wake and can be held in a variety of locations, including a church, funeral home, or another meaningful venue.
The funeral service often includes religious or spiritual elements, such as prayers, hymns, and readings, but it can also be secular, focusing on the life and legacy of the deceased.
Key components of a funeral service may include:
The funeral service concludes with the committal, where the body is either buried or cremated. This moment provides a sense of closure and allows mourners to say their final goodbyes.
It’s worth noting that a funeral service is traditional, and a wake might be a better option for those looking for a more personalised way to say goodbye.
A viewing, also known as a visitation, is a more informal gathering that allows family and friends to see the deceased one last time before the funeral service. A viewing is typically held at a funeral home, though it can also take place in other venues.
The body will be present, often in an open casket, giving mourners the chance to pay their respects and say their goodbyes in a personal and private manner.
Viewings are often scheduled for a few hours for close family and friends. This ceremony provides a quieter and more contemplative environment for reflection and support.
While wakes, funerals, and viewings all serve the purpose of paying tribute to the deceased and providing comfort to the bereaved, they differ in their format, setting, and level of formality:
| Type of celebration | Formality | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Wake | Informal gathering | - Can be solemn or celebratory - Focuses on sharing memories and offering support - Duration can vary |
| Funeral | Formal ceremony | - Often includes religious or spiritual elements - Eulogies, music, readings, and rituals are common - Concludes with burial or cremation - Provides a structured environment for mourning and closure |
| Viewing | Informal and quiet gathering | - Opportunity to see the deceased one last time - Typically held at a funeral home - Shorter duration compared to a wake |
Understanding the key differences between wakes, funerals, and viewings can help you navigate the process of saying goodbye to a loved one with greater clarity and confidence. Wakes offer a more informal and often longer gathering to share memories and support one another. Funeral services provide a formal and structured environment to honour the deceased with eulogies, music, and rituals. Viewings allow for a quieter and more personal opportunity to see the deceased and pay respects.
Each ceremony plays a vital role in the grieving process, offering unique ways to remember and celebrate the life of your loved one. By choosing the right combination of ceremonies that align with your family's values and traditions, you can create a meaningful and comforting farewell.
If you’re looking to arrange a funeral, Distinct Cremations specialise in affordable, straightforward funerals without the frills and fuss. Explore details on our unattended direct cremation and small attended cremation services below.
For additional pricing and a complete list of optional extras, please refer to our price list.
Our unattended cremation is a great choice for those looking for a simple, low-cost unattended cremation without a funeral ceremony. Unattended cremations take place with no service or mourners present at our high-quality crematoria where dignified care is guaranteed throughout.
Our Funeral Service offers an affordable funeral for those looking for simplicity and to be surrounded by their nearest and dearest. You have the choice of a 30 or a 60 minute service. This can be family-led or led by a professional celebrant.
We offer the highest level of support, but don't just take our word for it. Below are recent reviews from customers who bought a funeral with us.
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Over 74,000 cremations a year
Westerleigh Group including Distinct Cremations carried out over 74,000 cremations in 2024.
