What people need after a funeral
Somewhere to gather, something warm to eat and a chance to talk. Simple, familiar food works best. Nobody in the family should have to cook.
Where to hold the wake
At home, a village or church hall, a club or a pub. Choose somewhere close to the church or crematorium, with parking and room to sit. For a hog roast, there needs to be an outdoor spot for the roaster.
Short notice
Funerals are often arranged within a week or two. Contact caterers as soon as the date is set; many will tell you straight away whether they can help.
Timings
Services run over and people arrive in waves. A hog roast copes well, because a cooked roast can be held for a while. Give the caterer a contact, ideally a friend rather than close family.
A simple menu
Roast pork in rolls or on plates with salads, new potatoes and coleslaw, plus chicken and a vegetarian option, is filling and familiar. Older guests may prefer plates to rolls.
Dietary needs
Ask close family about dietary needs. Plan alternatives for people who don’t eat pork.
Who arranges the food?
Often a close friend or relative takes on the catering so the immediate family doesn’t have to. Give that person the date, venue and rough numbers, and let them be the caterer’s contact on the day.
How much food?
Numbers at funerals are hard to predict. Give the caterer your best estimate, based on the people you know are coming plus a margin, and agree what happens if more people arrive.
A quiet, respectful service
At a wake, food should be ready when people arrive and served without fuss. A good caterer keeps a low profile, serves calmly and clears away discreetly.
Plates or rolls?
Older guests often find plates easier than rolls. A plated meal with pork, stuffing, apple sauce, potatoes and salad feels more like a proper meal, while rolls are quicker and simpler. Both work; it depends on the gathering.
After the wake
Agree with the caterer what happens to leftovers. Some families like to keep some; follow food safety advice on chilling and eating it within a couple of days.
Choosing a caterer quickly
With little time, look for a caterer who replies quickly, asks sensible questions about the venue and numbers, and gives a clear price. You don’t need a long menu; you need food that arrives on time and is served calmly.
Children at a wake
Children often come to wakes with their families. Plain pork or chicken in a roll suits most of them; count them in your numbers.
Before you book
Send us the date, where the wake will be, rough numbers and when people are expected. A photo of the outdoor space at the venue helps us check the cooking spot quickly.
Quick answers
How quickly can a wake be catered?
Often within days; ask as soon as the date is set.
Is a hog roast appropriate for a wake?
Many families choose it because it’s simple, warm food that most people enjoy.
Planning an event? Tell us about it and we’ll check the date and send a quote.