Catering for funeral service and getting ready for the rituals that come with saying goodbye to a beloved loved one is no easy task, and it can feel overwhelming at times. While grieving is part of the process, funeral planning poses a unique set of challenges. The emotional rollercoaster that accompanies the grieving process can add stress to the planning process, especially when it comes to selecting the appropriate menu and budget.
A potluck at a funeral might not be practical; those who are still reeling from the events of the day might not feel like cooking for a crowd. That’s where a catering service comes in. Here’s what you need to know about funeral catering.
Check the guest list
When it comes to planning a funeral catering service, it’s always a good idea to have an idea of how many people will be attending so that you can best serve them. Once you have an idea of your expected headcount, and you’ve got a reliable team that can handle the more mundane tasks, you can focus on helping your loved ones through this challenging time and strengthen each other. With a professional catering service, you won’t have to worry about looking after, cleaning up, serving and planning your guests.
Choose a flexible menu
When it comes to planning a beautiful memorial service, the best part is how simple it all is. Some catering companies come up with tried and true menus that are tasty but not too fancy. Grilled chicken sandwiches, salads, tomato soups, and a dessert, are perfect for funeral catering. They accomplish the goal of being elegant yet delicious, while still being able to keep members coming back.
Plan for a tradition specific menu
Communicate your culture and traditions to the catering service you’re planning to hire. This will help them create a menu that reflects your local culture and traditions. Food is a great way to break the ice and make people feel comfortable. For funerals, choose a more practical menu, such as a buffet instead of a plate-based setup. The key to reducing stress during this challenging time is to communicate your expectations to the catering service. Choose a catering service that understands the trying times you’re going through and is well aware of the challenges of funeral catering, but can handle them with grace and compassion.
Decide on the venue of your service
Different types of catering are necessary for different settings. Whether you’re having your service in your home or a community hall, make sure to let your catering service know in advance so they can plan accordingly. No matter what setting you go with, make sure to begin your guests’ meal with comfort finger foods as appetizers and a warm beverage such as coffee or tea. Don’t get bogged down in the details of what the venue should look like; remember this is a moment to honor and be there for each other as you reflect on the special moments you shared with your loved ones.
Hire funeral caterers that are reliable and resourceful
While there are no words to describe the pain of losing a family member, there are steps you can take to ease the grieving process. Consider delegating funeral catering to a professional. This will allow you to spend more time with your family and support them during this difficult time.