A Guide to Funeral Flowers
Funerals are a challenging time for everyone involved. Losing a loved one is one of life’s hardest experiences, and it can be difficult to know how to show proper support for those grieving. Flowers have long been a way to express sympathy, offer comfort, and honor the deceased. Choosing the right funeral flowers can help bring a sense of peace and beauty to an otherwise somber occasion.
Why funeral flowers play an important role in the grieving process. They offer a visual expression of love, sympathy, and respect. Their natural beauty can bring a sense of comfort to those who are mourning, and each flower carries its own special meaning.
Funeral Flowers vs. Sympathy Flowers It’s important to understand the difference between funeral flowers and sympathy flowers. Funeral flowers are typically sent directly to the funeral home or memorial service to serve as a tribute to the deceased. They add beauty and a sense of life to the service. Sympathy flowers, on the other hand, are usually sent to the home of the grieving family to offer support and comfort after the service.
Choosing the Right Flowers for a Funeral
When selecting funeral flowers, consider the message you want to convey. Traditional funeral flowers include lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations. Each flower has a special meaning:
- Lilies: Represent restored innocence and peace.
- Roses: White roses symbolize purity and reverence, while red roses show love and respect.
- Chrysanthemums: Often used in funeral arrangements to symbolize death and honor, especially in European and Asian cultures.
- Carnations: White carnations represent innocence, red carnations show admiration, and pink carnations symbolize remembrance.
Popular Types of Funeral Flower Arrangements
There are several types of flower arrangements that are suitable for funerals, each with a specific purpose:
- Casket Sprays: These large arrangements are placed on top of the casket and are usually chosen by immediate family members.
- Wreaths: The circular shape of a wreath symbolizes eternal life. Wreaths can be sent by family, friends, or colleagues.
- Funeral Sprays: These are displayed on easels and can be one-sided or all-around. They are often sent by extended family or groups.
- Floral Baskets: These versatile arrangements can be sent to the funeral home, church, or family home.
- Hearts and Crosses: These shapes are popular for expressing love and faith.
Where to Send Funeral Flowers
When sending funeral flowers, it’s important to consider the proper place for delivery:
- Funeral Home: Flowers sent here will be displayed during the service and are often a safe choice.
- Family’s Home: Sympathy flowers sent to the home can provide comfort after the service. Make sure this is acceptable to the family before sending.
- Place of Worship or Crematorium: Flowers can also be sent to where the final service is held, depending on the family’s wishes and traditions.
Cultural Considerations
Not all cultures view funeral flowers the same way. In some traditions, sending flowers might not be appropriate. For example:
- Jewish Funerals: Flowers are generally not sent to the service, but sympathy flowers may be sent to the family’s home. Donations to a charity are often preferred.
- Islamic Funerals: Flowers are not a common tradition. Instead, offering prayers or preparing meals for the grieving family is more appropriate.
- Buddhist Funerals: White flowers are considered appropriate, while red flowers should be avoided.
Offering Support Beyond Flowers While flowers are a beautiful way to show support, nothing can replace your presence and comfort. A kind gesture, a comforting word, or simply being there for someone can mean a lot during this difficult time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right flowers for a funeral can be a meaningful way to show sympathy and support. Whether you attend the service or send flowers from afar, your thoughtful gesture can bring comfort to the grieving family. Remember, the most important thing is to show that you care and are there for them in their time of need.