What are we going to eat?

When planning a funeral, you should translate personal elements of the deceased to all parts of the day, including catering. By taking into account the taste preferences, interests and passions of the deceased, the catering can provide an appropriate and personal touch.

Food and drink play a central role in many cultures, including while reminiscing about and celebrating the life of a deceased person.

A funeral takes on a special meaning when dishes are served that have relevance to the deceased or that recall important moments in their life.

Think of a favourite dish of the deceased for example. Like a traditional family recipe or a meal from a special holiday destination.

Another possibility is to offer a "sweet table". Various sweets and desserts are presented which are not only tasty but also visually attractive. Think of small pastries, cupcakes, macarons, chocolates and other treats that match the taste preferences of the deceased.

A little more traditional is serving a High Tea, which includes various savoury and sweet treats accompanied by a delicious selection of teas. Relatives can enjoy scones, sandwiches, petit fours, and handmade cakes. A High Tea is a great time to reminisce.

Another creative way to make the catering personal is to choose a theme that suits the interests and passions of the deceased. Think of themes such as music, travel, hobbies or special events from their life. These themes can be translated into the choices of dishes and decorations and even the appearance of the catering staff.

If the deceased had a strong connection with a certain regional or local cuisine, you could choose to serve local dishes and specialities. This gives relatives the chance to experience the flavours of that region. In addition, it emphasises one of the characteristics of the deceased.

It is important to accommodate guests with specific dietary requirements. Today, there are countless possibilities in the field of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

In addition to traditional sweets and savoury snacks, there is also an increasing need for healthy alternatives in funeral catering. Offering fresh fruit salads, smoothies, vegetable snacks and other healthy options makes for an original addition. It offers relatives the opportunity to choose a healthy option.

If you want a more informal atmosphere, choose to serve tasty and easy-to-eat finger food and tapas. These dishes are small in size and easy to eat by hand. Because several small dishes are served, it is easy to take dietary requirements and healthy alternatives into account.

Drinks can also get a personal touch at the funeral catering. Think, for example, of serving favourite cocktails, special wines that the deceased appreciated, or adding personalised labels to bottles of liquor. In this way, the drinks become a tribute to the deceased.

Coffee is a traditional part of a funeral. However, it can be adapted to individual taste preferences and special wishes. Think, for example, of serving different coffee flavours, adding special syrups or liqueurs, and offering various types of milk and sweeteners. In this way, the coffee at the funeral can be tailored to the preferences of the deceased and the next of kin.

When planning a funeral, personalising the catering is a valuable way to honour the life of the deceased. This gives the farewell a personal touch.

Catering Ideas:

• Theme-based catering; for example, based on hobbies, travel or favourite cuisines.
• A "sweet table" with personalised sweets and desserts.
• Local specialties and dishes.
• Vegetarian and vegan options.
• Healthy alternatives, such as fresh fruit salads, smoothies and vegetable snacks.
• Finger food and tapas.
• Drinks with a personal touch, such as favourite cocktails or special wines.
• Coffee, adapted to various taste preferences.
• Personal details, such as personalised labels or tableware.
• Partnering with a local caterer or restaurant for a unique experience.