Immediately following the funeral, the family and guests will be served food, which is called the meal of condolence. During the mourning period, the family often receives meals, sweet trays, and food from friends. This is because they are not to work during this time, so having meals prepared is very helpful. Other than food, it is not necessary to bring anything else to a Shiva.
The dress code for Shiva can vary depending on the family. It is recommended that you dress in business casual clothing, meaning no ties or jackets required for men, and pants and skirts are acceptable for women.
Many people ask about children at Shiva. This is dependant upon your relationship with the family, the age of the children, and the family’s wishes. If you are uncertain, you should probably not bring them.
