When someone you know is having a cremation service, you might want to go, but it can feel awkward. Offer your condolences, sign guestbooks, and blend in to get through it.

It’s understandable that when you are going to attend cremation services in Chicago, IL for a loved one or for a friend in support of a death in their family, it’s not the most comfortable situation. You might feel awkward or out of place at times, but your presence there is important to those around you and your support really does mean a lot. Here are a few things you can and even should do when you attend a memorial service for someone after their cremation:

Offer Condolences

If you are attending services to support a friend who lost a loved one, you want to make sure that friend and their family has your condolences. It can be hard to approach a grieving family and you might not feel like anything you say will help. In a way, you’re right. Nothing you say or do can take away their pain. However, being there for them in solidarity and support is a huge thing. When the time is right, approach the family and tell them you are sorry for their loss. That’s really all you have to say to let them know you care and are there for them. If you’d like to go the extra mile, you can offer to do something for them, like bring a meal or something else.

Sign Guestbook

It can be overwhelming when a family has a memorial service for a loved one. They want to be present, but their minds are foggy with grief. Even if you speak to them in person, they may or may not remember you were there later and they really do want to know who was there to support them. If they have a guestbook, it’s there because they want people to sign it so they can remember those guests later. Don’t skip over it like it doesn’t matter because it matters a great deal to them.

Blend In

Your job at any cremation service is to offer your support and to simply blend in. Now is not the time to be the center of attention or the life of the party. In fact, it can be downright disrespectful to stand out in certain ways. Wear appropriate clothing, turn your cell phone off, and remove any children from the room if they start to fuss and make noise.

Attending cremation services in Chicago, IL can be nerve-wracking. But when you feel a family member’s hugs or a friend’s hand-squeeze because of the support you bring by just being there, it’s well worth your effort to go. Try to make the process as easy as possible on yourself and everyone around you. You can get more tips on how to act, what to say, and what to wear from the experts at Chicagoland Cremation Options. Call us at (773) 631-0018 and we can guide you through your supportive role in any service. You can also visit us at 9329 Byron St, Schiller Park, IL 60176 and check out our facilities for your own future plans.