I
have to say, it’s not often that my two main interests – wine and end-of-life issues/cemeteries –
coincide, so this is an opportunity I could not resist reporting on.  |
| Hodges Funeral Home - Naples |
It
seems that Hodges Funeral Home dignitymemorial.com/hodges-funeral-home-at-naples-memorial/en-us/index.page
in Naples, Florida believes that grieving is as
much about celebrating a life as it is about the end of it. That is why the
business had a wine cellar installed in the basement last month.
Let’s
face it, few people want to go to the funeral home, and most just want to move through as
quickly as possible. But now those attending visitations, wakes, and services at
Hodges, in southwest Florida, have the option to meet in the wine cellar to
remember the departed in a less traditional setting. |
| The Wine Cellar |
Most
people, especially those under 30, would prefer gathering with family and
friends in a comfortable atmosphere, maybe with a glass of wine in hand, and
share their memories of the departed. It’s a different way to grieve, and that’s
what the wine cellar offers.
While
it is not traditional, nor does it meet old-school funeral ethics, it does
provide a more relaxed and calmer way to mourn and remember. Amid comfortable
chairs, high top tables, and racks of wine, this modern wine cellar provides a
laid-back, tranquil vibe. 
Of
course, this is still about honoring the deceased, but this approach sure beats that line of
chairs in front of the body, in my opinion. And no other funeral home is known
to have a wine cellar, so this is definitely breaking new ground … (There is no
mention of what wines are offered, but I’m assuming Bone Dry Red and Two Angels
Petite Sirah are not in the line up: but maybe they should be …)
Hodges
Funeral Home is not shy about blazing new trails. They also offer catered
reception services as part of the Dignity Memorial Community. (Dignity Memorial www.dignitymemorial.com
has over 1,800 funeral homes in the U.S.) A reception can be held at the
funeral home, or any place you select. Breakfast can also be ordered for the
family the day of the funeral, and delivered at a home or church before
services.
 |
| One of Hodges Traditional Rooms |
For
those who believe the traditional way is best, Hodges will continue to offer
the standard funeral home experience. But for those looking for a new and
innovative way to mourn – the wine cellar seems to provide a modern answer.
 |
| Hodges Wine Cellar |
If
this venue is successful at Hodges Funeral Home, expect to see other Dignity
Memorial-owned funeral homes offering the “Cask
to Casket” experience. Could this be the trend of the future? We can only raise a glass, and hope.
~
Joy
