Funeral Flower Etiquette: What You Need to Know

When a loved one passes, one of the most meaningful ways to express your sympathy is through the thoughtful gesture of sending funeral flowers. Flowers provide comfort, symbolize life, and can offer a beautiful tribute to the deceased. At Flower Krazy, we understand the significance of funeral flowers and how they help convey respect, love, and compassion during such a difficult time. To ensure that your floral tribute is respectful and appropriate, it’s important to understand the funeral flower etiquette. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Timing of Sending Funeral Flowers

When it comes to sending funeral flowers, timing is crucial. Typically, flowers should be sent to the family or funeral home shortly before or just after the death occurs. The ideal time is within a day or two of hearing the sad news. This ensures the flowers can be displayed at the funeral or memorial service, offering comfort to grieving family members and friends.

In the case of a wake or visitation, flowers can be sent ahead of time or brought directly to the service. It’s important to check the funeral details to ensure you're not sending flowers too early or late, as flowers arriving before the family is ready can be overwhelming.

2. Choosing the Right Flowers

The flowers you choose should reflect both the personality of the deceased and the relationship you had with them. Traditionally, funeral flowers include lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations, all of which have symbolic meanings. For instance, lilies represent the restored innocence of the soul, while roses convey love and remembrance. Chrysanthemums are common in many cultures and are often seen as symbols of life and rebirth.

At Flower Krazy, we take pride in crafting personalized funeral flower arrangements that can be customized to the preferences of your loved ones, ensuring that each arrangement conveys a meaningful tribute. It’s important to consider cultural differences, as some flowers may have different meanings depending on the family’s traditions.

3. Funeral Flower Arrangements: What to Consider

When sending funeral flowers, it’s also important to consider the type of arrangement. There are several common types of funeral flower arrangements to choose from:

• Casket sprays: These are large floral arrangements placed on the casket during the service. They are often the most prominent display of flowers at a funeral and can be quite elaborate.

• Standing sprays: These are typically large, upright floral arrangements displayed at the funeral home or church. Standing sprays are suitable for those who want to send a more substantial tribute but aren’t closely related to the deceased.

• Sympathy bouquets: Smaller and more personal, sympathy bouquets are a great option for close friends and family. These can be delivered to the family’s home or brought to the service.

• Wreaths: Wreaths are circular arrangements that symbolize eternity. They are appropriate for both funerals and memorial services.

If you're unsure about the best choice for your situation, Flower Krazy offers guidance in selecting the most fitting floral tribute, ensuring the arrangement is appropriate for the family and the service.

4. Personalising Your Floral Tribute

One of the most meaningful ways to show your respect is by personalizing the floral arrangement. At Flower Krazy, we encourage customers to include personal touches such as ribbons, cards, or even a favorite flower of the deceased. A well-thought-out note or a card expressing your condolences can add a deeply personal element to your floral tribute, allowing you to share your thoughts and memories with the grieving family.

5. Respecting the Family’s Wishes

In some cases, the family may request that no flowers be sent, or they may prefer charitable donations in lieu of flowers. It's essential to respect these wishes. If this is the case, a simple card or donation to a charity in the deceased's name is a thoughtful alternative. Always check with the family or funeral home if you’re uncertain about their preferences.

6. Sending Flowers to the Family Home

While funeral flowers are traditionally sent to the funeral home or service, it’s also a kind gesture to send flowers to the family’s home after the funeral. This shows your continued support and provides a comforting reminder that others are thinking of them during the mourning period. Simple bouquets or indoor plants can help brighten their space and bring a sense of peace as they begin to heal.

7. Final Thoughts

Funeral flower etiquette may seem overwhelming at first, but at Flower Krazy, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re selecting a casket spray, a sympathy bouquet, or a wreath, we ensure your flowers are a respectful and fitting tribute to your loved one. Remember, the most important aspect is the sentiment behind the flowers—showing your love, compassion, and support during a difficult time.

If you’re unsure about your floral tribute or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Flower Krazy. We’re here to help you express your deepest sympathies with grace and respect.