Did you know Krause Funeral Homes and Cremation Service was the first funeral home, not just in New Berlin, Brookfield, and Milwaukee, but in the entire state of Wisconsin to obtain a state license to offer in-house catering facilities, including beer and wine? When we tell families this is an option for them, more often than not we hear the question: Why would a funeral home serve food and alcohol?
There are a number of reasons why we decided to offer receptions. Primarily, we knew offering comfortable visitation rooms and a full reception area to our families would allow them to gather together without having to worry about booking a crowded restaurant or cooking for a crowd. We know when you lose a loved one, the last thing you need is one more decision to make or event to arrange. We wanted to be able to handle every detail from beginning to end, and having our own catering facilities allows us to do that.
But we also knew the opportunities for healing that it presented for the families we serve, as well as their loved ones and friends.
Gather and Connect
At most major life events, food and drink are shared. There’s something about it that brings people together and provides comfort. Having a reception before or after the visitation or service will allow you to connect with other people who loved your friend or family member, and can talk, remember, laugh, and even cry with you. It also gives you the chance to connect with family and friends that perhaps you have not seen in some time. This can bring great comfort at a time of loss.
Use a Reception to Tell Your Loved One’s Story
We have seen people express such creativity in how they utilize a reception to shine a light on their loved one’s interests and passions. Imagine serving your grandmother’s famous oatmeal raisin cookies, or raising a toast to your dad with a pint of his favorite beer. It’s one more way their service can reflect who they were and how much they meant to you.
Thank Your Support System
People come from all over the country to pay their respects to a beloved family member or friend. Sharing a meal or a glass of wine with them is one way to thank them for their support and let them know how much their presence is appreciated.
Preserves Your Home Space
It is not uncommon after a loss for people to go the home of the bereaved to offer their sympathy and support. While these visits are often welcome, sometimes all you want is to be able to retreat quietly to your home after the funeral. By hosting a reception after the service or visitation, you give people a venue where they can express their condolences. Many will still visit, but you might find that it alleviates some of the social pressure.
You can also include reception services in your preplanning. It’s a wonderful way to provide comfort and refreshment to the people you love, while expressing your own personality in the style and offerings of the gathering. Whether you’re the type of person who wants an elegant affair, or a simple “coffee and cookies” type gathering, the expert hospitality team at Krause Funeral Homes can make it happen for you and your family.