What is a Funeral Tea: A Guide for Families
A funeral tea, sometimes called a wake or a celebration of life, is a moment of pause. It gives people the chance to come together after the service, to share memories, speak gently, and find a quiet kind of comfort in familiar faces and food.
At a time when there is so much to think about, planning a funeral tea might feel like another task on a long list. This guide offers calm, practical advice to help you shape a gathering that feels respectful, welcoming, and fitting for the person you're remembering.
So what is a funeral tea? Whether you’re organising for a small family group or a larger reception, the aim is the same: a peaceful space to reflect, remember, and begin to say goodbye.
What Happens at a Funeral Tea
A funeral tea often follows the main service, whether at a crematorium, church or other setting. Guests arrive, are greeted with refreshments, and begin to settle. There may be soft music playing, photographs on display, or a table where guests can write messages or memories.
Some families keep things very simple, with tea and conversation. Others add small touches: a favourite song, a toast, or a shared reading. There is no formal structure. It’s about creating time and space for people to connect without hurry.
If you're still wondering, what is a funeral tea, then it can help to think of it as a gentle bridge from the ceremony to a quieter moment surrounded by loved ones, gentle conversation and memory sharing.
Choosing the Right Venue
The right setting makes a difference. When looking for a wake venue in Devon, consider places that feel peaceful and private, with flexible space for whatever you might need.
At Dainton Park Golf Club, the Oak Room and Orangery both offer calm, peaceful surroundings with views over the South Devon hills. The spaces are light, accessible, and neutrally decorated. There is onsite parking, level access, and staff experienced in planning and hosting celebrations of life.
The ability to step outside onto the terrace, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea and a view, can offer moments for reflection.
Timings, Numbers and Layout
A funeral tea usually begins around 30-60 minutes after the service ends. It’s worth allowing for travel time, particularly if guests are unfamiliar with the area. Most receptions last 1.5 to 2.5 hours, though this can be adjusted to suit the guest list.
Whether you’re expecting 15 or 80 guests, a flexible room layout helps. At Dainton Park, tables can be arranged for informal mingling, seated dining or a mix of both. There’s space for a photo table, floral displays or a memory book. If you wish to play music or show a slideshow, audio-visual support is available.
A team member can help with these details, so you don’t need to manage it alone.
Menu Planning Made Simple
Most funeral teas follow a familiar format: a selection of sandwiches, savoury items, and sweet bakes, with tea and coffee served throughout. It’s a menu designed for ease and comfort.
At Dainton Park, families often choose from freshly made sandwiches, quiches, sausage rolls, and warm savoury pastries. This is typically followed by scones, cakes or traybakes, with the option to add a light hot dish if desired. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options are available, and dietary needs can be discussed ahead of time.
Costs and How to Keep Things Manageable
Funeral teas are usually priced per guest, with clear menus and no hidden charges. At Dainton Park, pricing includes room hire, service staff, all food and unlimited tea and coffee. Optional extras, like a hot dish or bar tab, can be added if you choose.
If you’re working within a budget, keeping things simple is absolutely acceptable. Fewer items done well often feel more sincere than elaborate spreads. You can also discuss a minimum guest number or cap to ensure costs stay in check.
The aim is to offer comfort and a place for loved ones to come together for reflection.
Final Checklist Before the Day
As the day approaches, a few key confirmations can help things run smoothly:
- Final guest numbers (with any last-minute changes)
- List of dietary needs or allergies
- Arrival time from the service
- Name of the venue contact for that day
- Payment method and schedule
- Any items you’ll bring: photos, flowers, music, memory book
- Who is coordinating on your behalf, if not you
Having one point of contact at the venue, often a member of staff, is helpful so you can focus on being present, rather than handling logistics.
Where to Host Your Funeral Tea
If you’re seeking a celebration of life or funeral tea in Devon that feels quietly thoughtful, Dainton Park offers a setting that allows space to grieve and gather. Surrounded by countryside, and with dedicated rooms for privacy, it is a place where families can feel looked after, gently and professionally.
Whether you need time to talk or share a cup of tea with someone who cared about the same person you did, the setting matters.