What’s the difference between a memorial and a funeral?

When choosing between a funeral and a memorial service, the key differences are timing and whether your loved one is present. A funeral usually takes place around seven days after a passing, allowing time for careful preparation and planning. It is held with your loved one’s body present in their coffin, giving family and friends the opportunity for personal farewells.

A memorial service, by contrast, typically takes place after a cremation. It offers families the flexibility to prioritise their loved one’s care first, while allowing space to grieve and time to plan a meaningful celebration of life at their own pace.

Because these services serve different purposes, understanding how they differ can help make the decision clearer when planning a meaningful farewell.

This article outlines the key differences first, followed by a more detailed explanation of each option.

Comparison at a glance

The comparison below shows the most common differences between a traditional funeral and a memorial service. It’s important to remember that services can look quite different depending on personal wishes, cultural traditions, and religious beliefs. This is simply a guide to help explain how the two are usually approached.

If you’re unsure what’s best for you and your loved one’s wishes, our team is here to help explain your options and walk you through our process. Our team is available 24/7 on 1800 071 176.

What is a funeral?

A funeral is a service held with your loved one present,  in their coffin or casket. It often takes place within a week of their passing and gives family and friends the chance to come together, say goodbye, and honour their life before the final arrangements are carried out.

Many families choose a funeral when having their loved one present feels important, or when a more traditional service brings comfort. For some families, this familiar structure can feel supportive during what can be an overwhelming period.

The service itself is led by a celebrant, member of the clergy or family member and follows a gentle, planned order. A funeral may include music, readings, prayers, shared memories, or personal tributes from family and friends. Families often include cultural or religious traditions, as well as music or words that reflect their loved one’s life, values, and personality.

The service usually ends with a final farewell, before cremation or burial takes place later. If it feels right for you, a viewing can also be arranged if the family wishes, but this is entirely optional and based on personal preference.

What is a viewing?

Viewings can take place as part of the funeral service, or they can be arranged beforehand to allow more private, personal time with your loved one. This time is often quiet and intimate, giving family and friends the opportunity to say words left unsaid, or to place a letter or special item with their loved one.

While a viewing is a deeply personal choice and not right for everyone, many families find it a meaningful way to acknowledge the death and a supportive step in their grieving process. If you're at all unsure about whether or not a viewing is suitable for your family, our team will be here to support and guide you with clear information and help you understand what this experience may look and feel like. You'll never be forced to take part in a viewing if you would prefer not to.

Is a funeral always followed by cremation?

Not always. While many funerals today are followed by cremation, some families choose burial instead. In both cases, the funeral service may look very similar, with the main difference being how your loved one is laid to rest following the service.

If you are considering burial, you can learn more about how that process works and the options available for you on Bare Funerals page. 

What about a no-service funeral?

Some families choose an unattended cremation or burial with no formal service at all. In these cases, there is no gathering at the time of the cremation or burial, but families may still choose to hold a memorial service at a later date or whenever they are ready.

If you’d like to explore no-service funeral options, you can call our award-winning team on 1800 071 176 or visit our All Services page.

What is a memorial service?

A memorial service is held without the person’s body present in a coffin and usually takes place after burial or cremation. In some cases, the service may include a loved one’s ashes in an urn instead. While similar to a traditional funeral, a memorial service is held separately and often feels more personal.

These services focus on shared memories, music, and personal stories, with an emphasis on celebrating the person’s life rather than following a formal structure. Many families find this approach more relaxed and meaningful. Memorials are often seen as celebrations of life, and guests may be encouraged to wear colour instead of traditional black or dark clothing.

One of the main reasons families choose a memorial service is flexibility. It can be held weeks, months, or even years later, allowing time for loved ones to travel and making it possible to gather in a place that felt special to the person who has died.

Memorial services can be held in community halls, places of worship, outdoor spaces, or family homes. Some families choose less traditional venues such as pubs, restaurants, beach clubs, or private function rooms, creating a familiar and comfortable setting for sharing stories and memories.

Instead of a casket, families may choose to display an urn as a centrepiece, often surrounded by photographs, flowers, or personal items that reflect the person’s life.

Cost differences between a funeral and a memorial service

The cost of a funeral or memorial service can vary widely depending on location, what is included, and personal choices. In most cases, the difference in cost comes down to the services and items selected, rather than the type of ceremony itself.

Funerals are usually held within about a week of a person’s death and tend to follow a more structured format. This timing and structure can be especially important for religious or cultural traditions. Costs may include the casket, body preparation and care, the length of any viewing, and coordination of burial or cremation arrangements. According to Gathered Here at the time of writing, the average cost of a funeral in Australia is $8,274 when items such as a family limousine and printed orders of service are included. Personalised options can increase this amount.

Memorial services are typically held after burial or cremation and focus on the ceremony. Because of this, some costs associated with funeral services such as care and transport of the deceased may not apply.

Unlike funerals, memorial services do not follow a standard format. They may include a venue, a celebrant or speaker, music, audiovisual elements, and a gathering or refreshments, depending on the family’s choices. This flexibility means memorial services can vary widely in cost and may be less expensive when fewer elements are included.

How to decide between a funeral and a memorial service

The decision between a funeral and a memorial service often depends on timing, traditions, any wishes the deceased may have shared, and what feels manageable for the family during an already difficult time.

A funeral service may be the right choice when families want to come together shortly after death, or when having the body present is necessary for cultural, religious, or personal reasons. 

A memorial service is often chosen because there is no requirement to hold the ceremony within a set timeframe, families can take more time to plan, travel, and consider what kind of gathering feels most appropriate. This may also be the case when arrangements have already been made in advance, such as a no-service cremation or burial.

Can you have both a funeral and a memorial service?

Yes, this is possible. Some families choose to hold a funeral service with their loved one present, followed by a memorial service at a later date for extended family and friends.

Both funerals and memorial services can be planned to suit different budgets and priorities. Families may choose to organise the ceremony themselves or work with a funeral director, depending on the level of support they prefer or require.

Final Thoughts

When choosing between a memorial service and a funeral, it can help to remember that there is no right or wrong choice. The decision often depends on your loved one’s wishes, your family’s preferences, and what feels financially comfortable. Whether you choose a funeral, a memorial service, or both, what matters most is honouring a life in a way that feels right for those remembering it.

At Bare, we believe there is no single way to say goodbye to a loved one. That’s why we offer a range of services to suit different needs and circumstances. Families have flexibility when arranging a meaningful funeral service with a Bare Funeral. We also offer Bare Memorial, which includes a direct cremation or Bare Cremation, with a memorial service held separately from the cremation.

Because no two farewells are the same, our services are designed to give families choice and control, so you only pay for what you need and nothing you don’t. If you're unsure about what's right for you and your family, our team are only ever a phone call away. We’re here to walk you through the options available in your area and help you make choices that feel right for your situation. Our award-winning team is available 24/7 on 1800 071 176.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for guidance specific to your situation.