Funeral Flowers

A Comprehensive Guide in Exploring Funeral Flowers

Grieving the loss of someone close is a difficult time. During such times, sending the appropriate funeral flowers can express a heartfelt message with grace and sensitivity.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about funeral floral tributes—from the symbolism of different flowers to etiquette guidelines.

What Are Funeral Flowers?

Funeral flowers are floral arrangements specifically designed for memorial services, wakes, and funerals.

They come in a variety of forms, including:

• Casket Sprays

• Easel Arrangements

• Sympathy Wreaths

• Tribute Shapes

• Vase arrangements

Each arrangement holds different meanings.

Choosing the Right Funeral Flowers

When selecting a funeral flower arrangement, consider the following factors:

1. Your Connection

• Close relatives typically choose larger tributes like casket covers.

• Acquaintances might send a small bouquet or potted plant.

2. Religious and Cultural Traditions

• In many Christian services, white symbolizes peace and purity.

• Jewish funerals typically do not involve flowers.

• Some cultures favor marigolds or lotuses in their rites.

3. Floral Color Codes

• White is universally accepted for funerals.

• Red symbolizes love and grief.

• It’s a royal, spiritual color ideal for memorials.

Popular Funeral Flowers and Their Meanings

Understanding the message behind each flower can help you choose the most fitting tribute.

• White Lilies – Peaceful afterlife

• Funeral Roses – Love and respect

• Carnations – Long-lasting and fragrant

• Funeral Mums – Death and mourning in many cultures

• White Orchids – Convey eternal admiration

Common Sympathy Floral Designs

1. Vertical Arrangements

These tall, often elaborate arrangements are displayed on easels next to the casket or at the altar. They are ideal for public services and typically ordered by family or close friends.

2. Lid Covers

Placed directly on the casket, these are typically chosen by immediate family. They can be half-couch (for open caskets) or full-couch (for closed caskets).

3. Wreaths and Hearts

Wreaths symbolize eternity, while hearts represent love. These are meaningful and versatile, suitable for both burial and cremation services.

4. Tabletop Tributes

Ideal for sending to the family’s home or funeral venue, these are easy to transport and suitable for friends or coworkers.

Sympathy Flowers vs. Funeral Flowers

Yes. While often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference:

• Funeral Flowers are sent to the funeral home or service itself.

• Floral Gifts of Comfort are usually delivered to the bereaved family’s home.

Sympathy flowers tend to be more modest, comforting, and suitable for everyday display. Funeral flowers are often larger and more formal.

When and Where to Send Flowers

It’s important to know when and where to send flowers.

• To the Funeral Home: Send before the service—ideally 1 day in advance.

• To the Church or Service Venue: Coordinate with the funeral director or service planner.

• To the Family’s Home: Send sympathy flowers a few days after the funeral as an ongoing gesture of support.

Avoid sending flowers to gravesites unless the cemetery has a specific policy or area for them.

How to Personalize Funeral Flower Arrangements

Want to make your floral tribute even more meaningful?

• Include a hand-written note.

• Choose flowers that were the deceased’s favorite.

• Add a ribbon with a personalized message or name.

For example, “Beloved Mother,” “Forever in Our Hearts,” or the person’s name and birth/death years.

Alternatives to Traditional Funeral Flowers

If you’re looking for something different:

• Potted Plants: Longer-lasting and symbolic of life.

• Donation in Lieu of Flowers: Some families prefer charitable contributions.

• Memory Gardens or Tree Plantings: Living tributes that grow over time.

Still want to send flowers? Choose something low-maintenance or seasonal that fits their lifestyle.

Floral tributes are a meaningful way to show compassion and care. They celebrate a life and bring peace to the grieving.

Whether you’re choosing an elegant casket spray, a thoughtful sympathy bouquet, or a simple white lily arrangement, your gesture will be remembered.