Holding a reception after a funeral is a long held tradition found in many cultures. While you certainly do not have to host such an event, doing so can provide the guests another opportunity to gather and show respect for the deceased and support to one another. Whether you hold a reception at your home, church, restaurant or funeral home in Rockford, IL, an important part of the reception is the food as we often look at food as a form of love and comfort.   

If you are hosting a funeral reception, you may be unsure of what food serving style would be best for your guests and the space. We are going to look at some of the most popular styles to help you better decide.  

Buffet Style  

Buffet style is a very popular choice at receptions for several reasons. One is that it can offer a wider variety of foods. With a plated table dinner, the choices of entrees may be limited to one or two, but with a buffet you may be able to provide many more. Also, if you do not want to have the added cost of servers, a buffet can be a good choice as guests serve themselves. Of course, if you wish, you can always have servers behind the buffet table to plate the food for the guests.

Plated/Table Style  

Plated or table style refer to when guests will be seated at a table at a certain time for their meal. It is a more formal, “high-class” feel as guests remain seated as the food is brought to them. Many times guests will choose their entrée and RSVP so that they don’t actually “order” at the time of the reception. The food is catered in or made at the location and is nice and hot as it arrives at the table. This serving style can be more costly because you will need servers to transport the food, refill drinks, and attend to additional needs of the guests as they eat.  

Food Trucks 

Food trucks are a newer serving style trend that is growing in popularity. While buffets and plated meals can feel formal and stuffy, food trucks are much more of a casual feel. This can be a great choice if the event is outside at a park or other outdoor location. It can also add some nice atmosphere if the family wishes the reception to feel more light-hearted and happy rather than serious and solemn. With most every city having several food trucks to choose from, you can offer your guests a wide variety of foods.  

Final Thoughts  

We often associate events- both happy and sad- with food. It gives guests something to bond over, it can provide comfort and we think of it as an expression of love. When deciding on the serving style for your reception, directors of funeral homes in Rockford, IL suggest you consider your guests and what they may enjoy as well as what type of mood you would like the reception to convey. Doing so will help you choose the right style for your funeral reception.