(Newswire.net — May 28, 2021) — When looking at all the choices for sympathy flowers, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you have never purchased sympathy flowers before, it can be difficult to choose the best and most appropriate flowers. However, knowing the type of flowers that are acceptable and other helpful tips can make this process slightly easier. Here is a helpful guide on choosing sympathy flowers.
1. Types of Acceptable Flower Arrangements
You will find several types of arrangements that are considered acceptable for funerals. Some of the most common are described here.
Casket Wreath
Also called a casket spray, this arrangement is usually placed on the top of the casket after it is closed. In most situations, only immediate family members will purchase these. They are larger than most of the other arrangements listed here.
Wreaths, Hearts, and Crosses
These are typically bigger than bouquets and baskets but smaller than other standing sprays. Most florists display them on a stand or easel, which is placed close to the casket.
Bouquets and Baskets
A smaller arrangement, such as a bouquet or basket, is the best option if you are a friend, co-worker, or distant relative. You can have these sent directly to a funeral home or to the deceased person’s loved ones.
2. Your Relationship to the Deceased Individual
As mentioned above, the relationship you have with the deceased person will play a role in the sympathy flower arrangement you choose.
For immediate family members of the deceased’s partner, purchasing a casket wreath or standing spray is considered typical. If you are a relative or close friend of the deceased, you can purchase a heart, cross, or wreath arrangement or a standing spray.
For individuals who were not close to the deceased or the family but still want to show support by sending flowers, consider a bouquet or basket. This shows they are in your thoughts without being too intrusive.
3. Types of Funeral Flowers
Each flower has a unique meaning associated with it. It can vary based on cultural background and religion. Usually, it is smart to research the type of flower you want to send before sending anything.
Some of the most popular flowers used for funerals and sympathy purposes are described here.
Lilies
This is typically considered the go-to option when it comes to funeral flowers and arrangements. You can find lilies in several colors, but white lilies are the most traditional. Lilies represent innocence, peace, and sympathy, and they usually symbolize a return to a state of peace.
Chrysanthemums
More commonly called “mums,” these flowers represent sorrow, well-wishing, and loyalty. You need to make sure you know the family you are sending the flowers to in order to choose the right color. For example, in some Asian cultures, yellow mums symbolize luck while white mums symbolize grief.
Roses
At funerals, the most common color choices for roses are crimson red, white, and yellow. Be sure to choose a color that is appropriate for the situation.
Orchids
You can find several shades of orchids available for sympathy flowers, each suitable for a funeral arrangement. Yellow orchids are usually given by friends, pink represents grace, white stands for purity and innocence, and purple stands for dignity and respect.
Carnations
Like other flowers, white carnations show purity and innocence, while pink shows a mother’s love. Because of this, usually, the mom of the deceased is the only one who purchases this color. Purple carnations represent sympathy and grief and are known as funeral flowers in France.
4. Where To Send the Flowers
When you are ready to purchase and send flowers after someone dies, there are a few options when it comes to where to send them. The easiest and most common option is to order funeral flowers online and then send them to the funeral home. However, you can also have them sent directly to the deceased person’s family.
When it comes to sending flowers after someone passes away, making sure you know what to do is essential. The tips and information here will help ensure you get the right flowers and use the right etiquette for this difficult situation.
Keep this guide in mind as you move forward with your selection and purchase of sympathy flowers for the funeral of someone you know, regardless of your relationship with them.