Planning a funeral is a difficult thing to do. You’re trying to cope with a recent, devastating loss, figuring out how to grieve, and dealing with many logistical tasks. However, you don’t have to do it alone. At your funeral home near Adelphi, MD, the professionals there are experienced with all aspects of making arrangements after someone’s death. One thing that is sometimes overlooked or forgotten about is the custom of a post-funeral reception. These are a way for everyone to convene and usually eat and drink together after the long and taxing day of funeral services. Sometimes they are spontaneously planned, but it can be helpful to think about your options beforehand.

The first thing you’ll want to consider is where everyone will gather. You have a wide array of choices here, and it will mostly come down to how many people are coming, how much you’re willing to spend, and how much work you and your family want to put in. For example, if it will be a smaller gathering, you may want to save money by hosting it at the home of a family member or friend. The downside to this, however, is that the host has the responsibility of opening up their home, and sometimes is faced with cleaning up afterward. Another option is to make a reservation at a favorite restaurant, either at a large table or in a banquet room. This may be a pricier choice, but it takes all the burden off your shoulders when it comes to cooking, serving, and cleanup. If you want to hold the reception at a place of worship or a funeral home’s gathering hall, you have the option of either catering it or making it potluck-style, where everyone brings a passing dish to share. Each of these options has its own benefits, and ultimately it will depend on your situation which one you choose.

In addition to choosing a venue, you will need a plan for the food. Don’t take the responsibility of preparing and cooking everything yourself! Make sure to enlist the help of family and friends if you are choosing to hold a potluck-style dinner. That way everyone can contribute, and no one is faced with too much responsibility and stress. If this isn’t what you prefer, you can also order catered food for the post-funeral reception. This way, everyone can focus on being together and reminiscing, rather than feeling stressed about cooking and making preparations. Finally, you can make reservations at a restaurant, and eat there. Depending on how much you want to spend, one of these options will likely work for you.

A post-funeral reception is a good way for everyone to unwind a bit after a difficult and emotional day. Family and friends can have a chance to catch up in a more informal setting, and fond memories and stories of the departed can be shared. Ask your funeral home near Adelphi, MD, if you need suggestions as to where to host it, and for anything else, you may need help with as well. That way you have as little stress as possible, and can focus on being with your family and grieving your loss.