In a bold move that challenges traditional funeral norms, a Columbus, Ohio, funeral home is set to become the first in the state to serve alcohol during memorial services, as reported by The New York Post.
Evergreen Funeral Cremation and Reception, located in a historic former chocolate factory, is gearing up to redefine the way Ohioans say goodbye to their loved ones.
— Jennifer Gould (@jennifergould) December 18, 2024
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Hunter Triplett, the visionary owner behind this unconventional concept, has a clear goal: to turn grief into celebration.
“My role in this position is to kind of be a party planner for the dead,” Triplett told WSYX, emphasizing his desire to shift the focus from somber multi-day rituals to a lively celebration of life.
The idea of pairing a funeral service with a bar might raise eyebrows, but Triplett insists it’s about creating a more meaningful and personalized experience.
The proposed addition of a liquor license would make Evergreen a “one-stop shop” for funerals, including wakes, services, burials, and receptions, all under one roof. And with package deals starting at $5,000 to $6,000—far below the national average of $10,000—this innovative approach could save families significant costs.
Evergreen’s sprawling facilities are directly across from a cemetery, making it ideal for a seamless funeral experience. Triplett believes that the addition of alcohol can foster an atmosphere of connection and healing.
“We will only be serving alcohol when people are on this premises and remain on the premises until the continuation of the services just for the safety of the people in the community around,” he assured.
This trend isn’t unique to Ohio. Funeral homes across the country have embraced a more celebratory approach. In White Bear Lake, Minnesota, Scott Mueller of Mueller Memorial said his decision to add a bar came from a desire to meet families’ requests for a livelier atmosphere.
“People said, ‘When we go, we want to have a party atmosphere. More of a celebration,’” Mueller shared.
Similarly, Monahan Funeral Home in Providence, Rhode Island, converted an old garage into a fully functional pub for mourners. New York state even revised its laws in 2016 to allow food and beverages at funeral homes, signaling a broader cultural shift.
Triplett and his team hope to secure their D3 liquor license, allowing the sale of beer, wine, and hard liquor for on-site consumption, by early 2025. If successful, Evergreen will set a new standard in Ohio, proving that even in death, there’s room for joy, community, and maybe a toast or two.
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