Catering & Receptions

Catering & Receptions

Family members and friends might consider having a reception after the funeral of a loved one, allowing those that attended the funeral a more casual, relaxed place to share stories and companionship after such a difficult time. Sometimes these are referred to as a Celebration of Life. If you should choose to host a reception after the funeral, you’ll allow all the people in your loved one’s life an opportunity to get together to share stories and friendship. It gives family and friends a chance to lighten the mood and enjoy each other’s company outside of the funeral home.

5 Things to Remember About Planning a Funeral Reception

Here are some helpful suggestions for planning a funeral reception or Celebration of Life.

1. Where should you hold the reception?

In some cases, our funeral home could be the perfect location to hold a funeral reception after the services. This would be the most practical way, but it might not be available for everyone. If you anticipate a large gathering, consider checking with the larger venues we have listed, or at one of our local churches for availability. There are also several of our local restaurants listed that you may consult as well.

If the gathering is smaller, people often opt for their own house as the reception space. Not only will you have more control of the event, but a home creates an inviting atmosphere that allows people to relax after an emotional day.

2. How many people should you expect?

This is difficult to predict, considering you don’t know how many workmates, old friends and colleagues might come to pay their respects. It’s good practice to invite all those that attend the funeral, and often, we don’t know exactly who will show up to a service. Be sure to consider the clubs, teams and associations they might have been involved in and always plan for a little more than you expect.

3. What food & drink should you provide?

Getting the event catered can be expensive–and difficult considering the short time to plan–but you might be surprised at the affordability of getting a local café or supermarket to cater. Several of our local restaurants will also cater a home event – especially if one was a favorite of the deceased. In many cases, family and friends will also bring something, so consider that as well before placing a large order.

4. How can others help make things easier?

After the death of a loved one, people usually say, “Please tell me if there’s anything I can do to help!” Take them up on this offer by asking them to bring a covered dish or drinks or help you with any of the other tasks you’ll have to deal with. It will not only lift the burden on you, but it will also allow your friends and family to feel that they are helping in a time of need.

5. Set up a special memorial display

Remember that this event is to help honor your loved one and that people are coming from all over to share their sympathies. Set up a table in the front with photographs and memorabilia that remind everyone of their friend and let people know that they can bring some pieces to add to the table. These pictures will be a great conversation starter and allow people to begin sharing their stories about the person you all loved. Favorite music and a slideshow of photographs playing in the room is also a great modern addition to these gatherings.

Please contact us directly for more personalized assistance with arranging any gathering around a funeral.

Our Local Caterers:

Our local supermarkets can make platters for you:

Our Local Reception Venues:

Many Churches in our area also offer reception areas after a service, such as:

• Hope Fellowship Church
• Mildred Cutter Hall at the United Church of Jaffrey
• Jaffrey Bible Church
• First Congregational Church of Rindge
• Christian Outreach Church
• Apostolic Lutheran Church
• Divine Mercy Church
• and more