Essential Things to Consider When Booking a Wake Venue

Arranging a wake or a celebration of life for a loved one is a profoundly personal task. The venue you choose plays a crucial role in setting the tone, providing a comforting space for people to gather and share memories. To help you with this sensitive process, we've put together a guide on the most important factors to keep in mind.

1. Space and Capacity

The size of your venue should feel just right. It should be large enough to accommodate all your guests without feeling crowded, yet intimate enough to create a warm and personal atmosphere.

At The Sessions House, we offer flexible options to suit any size of gathering. Our unique spaces include:

• The Emerald Room, a beautifully appointed and intimate space perfect for a small, private gathering.

• The historic Courtroom, with its high ceilings and grand scale, is ideal for a larger reception or a more formal celebration of life.

• Our peaceful Courtyard provides a lovely outdoor option for a reception, allowing guests a tranquil space to mingle in warmer weather.

2. Catering and Refreshments

Food and drink are a fundamental part of any gathering, providing a moment of comfort and community. Look for a venue that offers a range of high-quality catering options that can be tailored to your needs.

Our in-house catering team at The Sessions House specializes in crafting a menu that is both delicious and fitting for the occasion. We can provide anything from a traditional afternoon tea to a full buffet, ensuring that you and your guests are well taken care of.

3. Location and Parking

A wake venue should be easy for local friends and family to get to, with minimal hassle. This is particularly important for older guests or those traveling a short distance.

The Sessions House is centrally located for the local community and, crucially, offers onsite parking. This simple convenience can make a big difference, allowing everyone to arrive and depart with ease.

4. Audio-Visual Capabilities

Many families choose to honor their loved one with a personal tribute—a slideshow of photos, a tribute video, or a playlist of their favorite music. Having the right technology on hand is key to making this a seamless part of the day.

All of our spaces are equipped with AV equipment, including speakers and screens, to ensure that you can share these important memories and create a fitting tribute without any technical worries.

5. Staff Expertise and Support

During a difficult time, the support of an experienced and compassionate team is invaluable. You need people who are not only professional but also sensitive to your needs.

Our dedicated team at The Sessions House will work with you to handle every detail of the day. We are here to listen and help, taking on the burden of planning so you can be with your family and friends.

6. Ambience and Character

The atmosphere of a venue sets the emotional tone for the day. A beautiful and respectful setting can provide a sense of peace and comfort during a time of mourning.

As a historic building, The Sessions House offers a unique and dignified ambiance. Its elegant architecture and well-maintained grounds provide a warm, welcoming, and memorable backdrop for a celebration of life.

We hope this list is a helpful starting point for your planning. We invite you to visit our Celebration of Life section on our website to see our rooms and find out how we can assist you.