funeral reception

Funeral receptions and wakes

Bring family and friends together after the funeral service to remember your loved one.

funeral director

A time to gather together after the funeral

A funeral reception – often called a wake in Australia – is a chance for family and friends to gather after the funeral service and reflect on their loved one’s life together. This shared experience is a powerful part of the healing process after losing someone.

family having coffee

Types of receptions and gatherings

Depending on your culture or religious background, a wake can take many different shapes. For example, an Irish wake is a lively affair with music, laughter and dancing. A Buddhist wake is typically more sombre, where guests share a quiet meal after the service.

For many Australian families, a wake takes place at a local pub or club, or even a family home. It might include a toast or two, but it’s typically a casual affair.

What we can arrange

We can take care of the practical details of the reception, so you can focus on spending time with family and friends.

funeral reception

1

Venue

Gather at a White Lady funeral home, a favourite local pub or restaurant, or another place that holds special meaning for your family

floral arrangement

2

Flowers and decor

Add a personal touch to the reception venue with your loved one’s favourite flowers, photographs or other details.

funeral director

3

Music

Play favourite songs or music that brings back memories while family and friends spend time together.

funeral director

5

AV Equipment

Share photos or videos on screen, or have a microphone available for family and friends who would like to say a few words.

White Lady funeral specialist
White Lady funeral specialist
White Lady funeral specialist
White Lady funeral specialist
We're ready to help

Contact your local White Lady to request this in your arrangement 

For nearly four decades, families have trusted White Lady to walk beside them. If you need us now, we are here.
1300 656 550
4.83
from the families we support

What families
remember most

Beautiful service & burial which went perfectly thanks to the way Cassandra and her girls handled their part with compassion, sensitivity, grace and humility.
C. Ryman September, 2026
The warm and courteous care we were given by Maree when we first met her to arrange my wife's funeral service. Then on the day of the service, the wonderful care given by Maree and her team at the church. Everything provided was lovely and very professional. I have used White Lady Funerals for both my parents funeral services many years ago at Tweed Heads and was impressed hence why I chose White Lady Funerals again. Maree Burrow at Tanah Merah was very nice and caring, thank you!
D. Sein July, 2026
From the start, the staff at White Lady were extremely caring and mindful about dealing with our grief and walked us through all that needed to be done in all aspects of arranging my sister's funeral. They were professional, caring and thoughtful in their recommendations about how we wanted to carry things out.
L. Butterfield August, 2026
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