The Brief

Provide hospitality, including a late lunch, for an estimated 100 mourners at home after the funeral for our client’s husband. Importantly, we needed to remove any stress or the need to think about arrangements for the new widow and ensure everything was handled with maximum quiet discretion.

The Result

With mourners arriving about 2.30 pm after the funeral, it was agreed a buffet lunch would be served immediately as they were likely to be hungry.

The lunch was simple, with roasted meats served warm with bread rolls and salad. Later, a delicious sweet taste was served with tea and coffee, as we find often guests do want something small and sweet to finish.

Our staff arrived at the house discreetly just before the family left for the funeral, to set everything up and also to provide some security by having people in the house. Everything was prepared waiting for the guests to arrive, so drinks (wine and non-alcoholic options) were offered immediately.

Although a sad occasion, post-funeral hospitality is also an opportunity for mourners to share stories and reminisce over a drink, and this often provides welcome support for the family.

As most guests feel they should not stay too long for these events, we provided four serving staff plus Function Manager and chef to ensure prompt service, and efficient clearing away late in the afternoon. By 6pm the house was back to normal, with no effort required by the family, who could concentrate on their guests and their memories.

We don’t have standard menus or catering packages, as everything is custom-made to suit. Please call us on 06-364 3161 or email events@ruthpretty.co.nz talk about your event and how we could help you. We can give you indicative prices to help you plan your budget, as well as other practical suggestions to make your event a success.

Funeral Hospitality

The Brief

The Result

MENU