Choosing the Right Funeral Flowers
Choosing the Right Funeral Flowers
Flowers have been a part of ceremonies for thousands of years. In fact, some archaeologists have dated the earliest use of funeral flowers as far back as 62000 years ago. Of course, back then the flowers were likely used to mask the smell of the deceased. Today though, funeral and sympathy flowers serve a much different purpose. After a death has occurred, it’s become customary to send flowers to the deceased’s family as a way of expressing sympathy and offer condolences.
If you’ve ever sent flowers to a funeral, you might have heard them referred to as different things. Depending on the florist, some may refer to them as either funeral flowers, sympathy flowers, or condolence flowers. Many people think they mean the same thing and for the most part, they’re correct. However, depending on the size of the flowers and where they are sent, there is a way to distinguish a difference between them.
If someone you know has passed away and you would like to send flowers, you can do so directly on our website. Simply click on flowers at the top of the page. Next, locate the deceased’s obituary and you will be redirected to our online flower store. From there you can browse through dozens of beautiful floral arrangements.
But before you purchase flowers for a loved one’s service, take some time to understand the different types of flowers available, what they symbolize and how they can be arranged.
Funeral Flowers vs Sympathy Flowers
You’re likely asking yourself, what’s the difference between funeral flowers and sympathy flowers? After all, they are just flowers, aren’t they? The real distinction comes down to size, arrangement, and where the flowers are sent.
Funeral Flowers
Funeral flowers are typically selected by family members or close family friends. The two main reasons for this are because of the size of the flowers and their role in the funeral service. The floral displays selected by the family are usually displayed at the front of the chapel next to the casket. The flowers need to be large enough for them to be viewed from anywhere in the room. The large displays can be purchased in different shapes such as a heart or a cross. The family is also responsible for purchasing a wreath or spray to be laid across the top of the casket during the service.
Sympathy Flowers
Sympathy flowers are the smaller arrangements and bouquets that are sent by friends and loved ones to the bereaved. They are meant as a way to offer condolences and express your sympathy. Thus, they are commonly referred to as sympathy flowers. If you would like to send flowers to be present at the service, it’s critical that do so as soon as possible. This ensures the florist has enough time to complete the order, deliver them to the funeral home, and have the funeral home staff set them up in the chapel beforehand. If you would to send flowers to the family’s home, this can be done at any time.
Types of Funeral Floral Arrangements
When it comes time to purchase flowers for a funeral service, there are several different types of arrangements to choose from. Below we’ve explained the different types of flower arrangements available for purchase in our online store.
Bouquet
A bouquet is the most popular floral arrangement purchased. This is a smaller group of flowers that can be displayed in a vase or a basket.
Casket Sprays
A casket spray is a large arrangement that gets laid across the top of the casket. This arrangement is often purchased by the immediate family of the deceased.
Sprays
A spray is a large floral arrangement that is a center piece or focal point. These large displays are often placed at the front of a chapel next to the casket.
Wreaths
A wreath is a circular floral arrangement. Many People believe that the circle of flowers represents eternal life.
Inside Pieces
These are smaller funeral flowers and arrangements that are placed directly in the casket next to the deceased.
The Meaning Behind Funeral and Sympathy Flowers
Before you purchase flowers to send to the funeral home or the family, it’s important to understand what the flowers represent. Rather than simply picking some flowers that look nice, take some time to understand what different flowers mean. Below we’ve listed 8 of the most popular flowers for funerals.
- Carnations – Fascination/Love
- Chrysanthemums (Mums) – I Love You
- Hyacinth –You’re In My Prayers
- Hydrangea – Heartfelt Emotions
- Lilies – Majesty
- Orchid – I Will Always Love You
- Peace Lilies – Peace
- Roses – Love, Respect, Courage
We Make Purchasing Sympathy Flower Easy
If someone you know has recently passed away, offer the family your condolences by purchasing a beautiful arrangement of flowers from our online store. Our flower store is connected to our online obituaries so you can send the flowers directly to the service or the family’s home.
Visit Our Flower Store