Page 22 - UK
P. 22
QUARTER
PAGE ADVERT
Advertise your
business here Arranging catering
You may find in the days following the death that understandably family members do not feel up
to the job of preparing the food and drink for the reception. Instead, you may want to ask other
for just £399 relatives and friends to help with the catering for the reception. They are likely to appreciate
being able to assist and will feel included as a result. Alternatively, you may find it easier to use
outside caterers and again we will be able to help arrange this.
Special touches
As part of the increasing trend towards personalising funerals, families are introducing special
touches into the arrangements for the reception. These special touches may be a simple display
of some photos of the deceased person, a choice of music, a favourite choice of wine or some
informal reminiscences from close friends.
Gifts
It’s not appropriate to bring a gift to a funeral service. Most people don’t want to open gifts while
they’re mourning a loved one, and funeral receptions don’t include time like a birthday party for
opening presents. You can, however, bring a sympathy card. If you really want to give the
family a gift, make time to share your thoughtfulness in the days following the funeral.
A common gift is food, such as lasagne or a casserole, which allows family and friends time
to grieve without having to worry about making meals. Don’t bring the food to the funeral
reception; drop it off after the reception or offer to stop by with a meal a few days after the
service. The same goes for charitable gifts. If you want to give to charity in the deceased’s name,
do so, but don’t advertise it during the funeral luncheon; send a note to the family shortly after
the funeral.
Additional Etiquette
Dress appropriately to attend a funeral service. You don’t have to wear all black, but dress
as if you were going to a formal service.
If you bring your children to the luncheon, keep a close eye on them so they behave
respectfully. If your children start to get out of hand, take them outside to regroup or take
them home.
Don’t leave without saying goodbye to the close family and friends of the deceased. Offer
a hug, a word or two of support and your condolences.
23