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How to Plan a Funeral Wake
When the funeral service is over, when the solemn words have been spoken, tears shed and songs sung, it’s time for the wake or funeral reception. Traditionally the wake involved the deceased’s loved ones staying with them until they were taken to the service. But in modern times, a wake is the post-funeral gathering of family and friends to support and comfort each other. It’s a vitally important part of the funeral day, so organising a wake is a huge responsibility, which comes at a time when you are suffering greatly from bereavement yourself. This article attempts to make your task easier, by covering some important considerations, with advice on aspects that will help make the event memorable and fitting, such as venues and catering. Your first consideration is how much the funeral wake should reflect the personality, beliefs and lifestyle of your deceased loved one. It is a phenomenon of modern times that everything in our lives should reflect who we are and how others should view us, and recently this has come to include funerals and funeral wakes. Many people want their funeral wake to be minutely planned and personalised. Choose a venue that creates the right atmosphere and it is possible to create a moving, memorable and fitting day of celebration and remembrance that represents the deceased’s wishes. It doesn’t have to be an unhappy gathering of sombre mourning, though, of course, if that is what the deceased would have wanted, it can be. The funeral wake venue is probably your most important consideration. It is no longer necessary to host a wake at a relative’s home, especially if large numbers are expected to attend. There are hundreds of venues that can accommodate funeral wakes of all sizes, and able to create the most fitting environment for friends and family to relax in, while they feel a connection with their departed loved one. When it comes to the funeral wake venue, the options are almost endless, make your task easier by first searching online to make your shortlist, you’ll soon find the perfect wake venue. Here are some ideas: The venue for a wake can be a favourite place the deceased loved to be or had sentimental value to them, such as their local pub, local community of village halls, local sports facilities or favourite restaurant Use the hospitality suite at the football, cricket or rugby club they supported or a golf club where there were a member Many hotels offer dedicated funeral wake packages and create a warm and comforting atmosphere, where all your needs are taken care of Museums, zoos, boats, historic buildings are all examples of venues for wakes that may reflect the personality or interests of the deceased You will also want to consider catering options. Keep it simple by doing it yourself - supplying platters of sandwiches, salads, cold meats, quiches, biscuits and cakes, or choose a catering service that takes the pressure from you. Find the right caterer and they will work with you to create a menu or buffet that fully represents the favourite foods of your departed loved one. Again, searching online is a quick and easy way to find the perfect supplier.You can view funeral wake venues here. Whatever you choose, ensure there are plenty of hot and cold drinks served. Many people like to toast the deceased with an alcoholic drink and it’s a good way to start conversations and bring people together. The funeral wake is for people of different types to come together, reminisce and share stories, laugh and cry together. They need something to talk about, the wake venue, decoration, food and music can fulfil this crucial function. You may also choose to display some personal items, such as: Photos of the person in frames or in albums A guest book for shared memories and expressions of condolence Funeral cards Flowers Funeral wake organising is a momentous task, but it doesn’t have to be dauting. Do it well and you’ll hear the phrase “It’s what (s)he would have wanted”, on numerous occasions throughout the day. For a helping hand at this difficult time, please contact our dedicated venue finding experts for any support you need to organise the perfect funeral wake.
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