FeaturedCaterersSomersetBereavement specialist
Dorset Delights Catering, established in 2010, offers compassionate, professional event catering with a special focus on funeral services. We provide elegant buffets and afternoon teas at homes, villa…
When you are arranging a wake in Somerset, finding the right caterer can make a real difference to how the day feels for everyone who attends.
FeaturedCaterersSomersetBereavement specialist
Dorset Delights Catering, established in 2010, offers compassionate, professional event catering with a special focus on funeral services. We provide elegant buffets and afternoon teas at homes, villa…
We are carefully selecting the best caterers in Somerset. Check back soon, or list your business here.
Choosing a caterer for a funeral reception is not like booking for any other occasion, and the best caterers in Somerset understand that. Whether you are organising a gathering in Taunton or a smaller, more informal reception closer to Glastonbury or Wells, a thoughtful caterer will guide you through menu choices without overwhelming you, offer flexible quantities, and be willing to accommodate dietary needs across a mixed group of guests. They will arrive early, set up quietly, and make sure you have one less thing to think about on a difficult day. Somerset is a large and varied county, and it is worth asking any caterer you speak to which areas they regularly cover. The distance between Weston-super-Mare on the coast and Frome in the east, or between Yeovil in the south and Bridgwater in the centre, can be significant, and travel time may affect availability or minimum spend. Many families in Somerset choose a simple, generous spread that reflects the person they have lost, whether that is a traditional finger buffet or something more personal. It is always worth having an honest conversation with your caterer early on about budget, so nothing comes as a surprise.
Many families need caterers for a wake following a service at one of these crematoriums.
Costs vary depending on the number of guests, the style of catering, and how far the caterer is travelling, but most families in Somerset can expect to pay somewhere between fifteen and thirty pounds per head for a buffet-style reception. Some caterers charge a minimum booking fee, particularly for smaller gatherings or for events in more rural parts of the county. It is always worth asking for a written quote that includes any travel, staffing, or hire charges so you can compare fairly.
Wherever possible, try to speak to caterers as soon as you have a provisional date and venue in mind, as the most experienced and well-regarded providers can be booked up, particularly during busier periods. Even a few days notice may be enough for some caterers if they are available, so do not be discouraged if arrangements come together quickly. Being honest about your timeline from the first conversation will help a good caterer do everything they can to accommodate you.
Most independent caterers will provide the food itself, the serving equipment, and a member of staff to set up and, where agreed, to serve and clear away. Some will also supply table coverings, napkins, and basic crockery, though this varies, so it is worth confirming exactly what is included before you confirm a booking. Tea, coffee, and soft drinks are sometimes offered as an addition, and a good caterer will talk you through all the options without any pressure.
Yes, and any reputable caterer should be both willing and able to cater for a range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common allergens. It helps to give your caterer as much information as possible about your guests when you first speak, so they can plan accordingly. Do ask specifically how allergens are handled during preparation, particularly if someone in your family has a serious allergy, as this is an important practical detail that a good caterer will take seriously.
Many independent caterers based in towns such as Taunton or Yeovil are happy to travel across Somerset, though some may apply a travel charge for more distant locations or for venues that are harder to reach in the rural parts of the county. It is always worth asking directly about coverage when you first make contact, and being clear about your venue address. A caterer who knows Somerset well will usually be straightforward with you about what is and is not practical for them.
WakeVenues lists suppliers as a convenience to families. We do not vet or endorse any supplier.