This is the most common quandary, and unless you are holding an ‘invitation only’ wake then you have to make an educated ‘guess’.

Take into consideration your ‘loved ones’ activities – were they regularly part of a church congregation, if so, you may find that their vicar / priest can offer some help. Were they involved with social groups –a choir, creative classes, sports teams etc? This may influence the number of mourners.

If the wake being held locally to the church / crematorium, less guests may attend if they have to make a journey from one to the other.

A funeral wake requires a different style of catering. It’s the one ‘event’ which isn’t about the food and having a ‘full tummy’. It’s about spending quality time with family and friends, talking and remembering.

In our experience, food that is easily recognizable and easy to eat whilst talking, is of key importance. But rest assured, Peppers will provide, delicious and beautifully presented food.

The time of the event is another consideration. If the wake is over lunchtime and there are mourners who have travelled from afar this must be considered. Also, we advise that it is worth considering if there are any attendees that require special dietary requirements.

Drinks are very important.

Peppers provide unlimited assorted teas, coffees and homemade soft drinks as part of our menu.

We can also supply prosecco, wines, beers and ciders on a sale or return basis – therefore you are only charged for the bottles that are opened. We will chill it, keep it cool, supply the glasses, serve it and dispose of the bottles.

Alternatively, we will serve chilled drinks that you have provided and can offer a glass hire and bottle disposal service.

In our minds this is the most important service and something that we love to do.

Peppers can supply experienced and attentive serving staff who will look after your guests in a compassionate, yet professional manner.

We will welcome guests, offering a drink and directing them to the buffet tables. Throughout the event we will circulate with drink top ups and oversee the buffet, ensuring that guests who may be reserved or elderly are looked after.

Peppers will liaise with hall caretakers to discuss access, facilities and equipment.

We will lay up drinks and buffet tables in advance of your arrival, with tablecloths and everything required to serve your chosen menu.

We will arrange ‘occasional’ tables and chairs, leaving adequate room for guests to stand and mingle. We can supply tablecloths and small arrangements of flowers (depending on season we may be able to use flowers and foliage from our gardens to reduce the charge).

At the end of the event we will tidy up, pack away furniture and clean the used areas.

We will lock up and return the venue key, if required.

We can provide a delivery only service. We will deliver at an agreed time to your chosen venue. A refundable deposit will be taken, and a collection fee will be added if you require crockery. Or our freshly prepared food can be arranged on recyclable packaging. Labelling and allergy information is always provided.

Every event is very different. Our menus are charged at a “per head” rate with VAT charged at 20%.  White classic tea plates, cups, saucers and white napkins are provided but table linen, glassware, floral arrangements are all additional costs. Staffing costs include uniformed waiting staff to set up, serve and look after your guests and then tidy away.

We understand that the time following the loss of a loved one is a very difficult and emotional time with so much to think about.

We are here to guide you, support you and assist you every step of the way.

As specialist funeral caterers, we pride ourselves on providing an unobtrusive and courteous service, creating a comforting environment where family and guests can come together in remembrance.

Discreet waiting staff will help serve food and drinks ensuring you, your family and friends are treated with the utmost compassionate care and attention.