When an unexpected illness or passing occurs, families often find they do not have the time to prepare meals when there are more pressing matters to be handled. Bereavement catering can help ease the burden during these trying times. Traditionally, following a Celebration of Life Service, family and friends are invited to a home or social hall to express their condolences and celebrate the life of their loved one. The once common practice of friends bringing a covered dish to the post-service reception is no longer guaranteed and therefore the family must either prepare or make arrangements for the food to accommodate family members and friends or request condolence food from a company who does Funeral or Bereavement Catering.