Having a wake for Mr. Tavernier in two weeks.

[tavernier]

It was postponed due to Irma, and therefore having it a few months later.

We are actually having a band, since his SIL is the drummer in a band formed by the high school teachers in town, hubby’s favorite.

I’m nervous because hundreds of ppl have rsvp’d.

We are members of a local fraternal organization so the hall is free, and I can cover the cost of food, etc, but I’ve never done this before .

Any suggestions are most welcome!

[diva77]

1. I found a link about this

https://www.funeralguide.co.uk/how-to-arrange-a-funeral/how-to-organise-a-wake/

has some suggestions in it;

Obvious suggestion - have people share anecdotes at the microphone (since there will be a band, can use their mic)

Mr. T. must have been wonderful considering the number of people who have RSVP'd !

[tavernier]

3. Thanks!

Bookmarked!

[applegrove]

2. With a crowd that big it will take on a life of its own. Find a place to sit down

off to the side where there is room for people to line up to talk to you. Because everyone will all want to talk to you. For my mom's funeral my dad was in a wheelchair and we had a few seats beside home that made a circle. Then one person after the other could sit down and join in the conversation when appropriate and give their condolences. Then get up and let someone else talk to dad. And people could stand behind the chairs and give dad a quick hug or shake. Meant the world to dad and us that he was able to talk to so many people in such a intimate way. And closer friends could sit a little longer in the chairs. Vibes to you and yours.

[tavernier]

4. He knew everyone in town.

I’m the shy one.

Thanks, hubby!

[applegrove]

5. He sounds like a great egg. So sorry for your loss.

[Rhiannon12866]

9. He certainly sounds like he was a peach and she's absolutely right

When we had a lunch following my mother's funeral, everyone wanted to talk to me, even people I wasn't acquainted with before. I had a tough time getting a chance to eat myself. You'll be the one who everyone will want to touch base with - but they'll want to tell you things more than the other way around. My brother put together a lot of old photos on a board, like folks do these days, and especially family were quite interested in those, brought back a lot of good memories. Just remember to breathe and know that those people are there to support you and you'll be fine.

[Lochloosa]

6. Help will be offered. Take it.

[tavernier]

7. Wow, you know my friends and family?

Yes, they will be my rock.

I guess I’m just nervous because it has been a year of changes. Lost my car and home in Irma, and trying to figure out the future.

Just keep swimming!

[Fla Dem]

8. So sorry for the very difficult year for you and your family.

Take heart in the warm turnout of your community.