Traditional funeral and sympathy flowers

Finding the right way to express your condolences can be a challenge when feelings and emotions are so fragile. One way to show your support is by sending funeral or sympathy flowers. Funeral flowers are a caring way to express sympathy and offer comfort to loved ones who are grieving.   

In this article, we will discuss the meaning behind funeral and sympathy flowers and how to choose the right ones to express your condolences.

Understanding funeral flowers

Funeral and sympathy flowers have been a long-standing tradition in many cultures around the world. They serve as a way to pay respect to the deceased and offer comfort to those who are grieving. Each flower has its own meaning and can convey different emotions. When choosing funeral and sympathy flowers, it's important to consider the type of relationship you had with the deceased, as well as their cultural and religious beliefs.

Types of funeral flowers

There are many types of funeral and sympathy flowers to choose from, each with its own significance. Here are some of the most popular types  flowers together with their meanings:

Lillies

Lilies are a popular choice for funeral and sympathy flowers because of their elegance and simplicity. They symbolise the restoration of the soul of the departed to a peaceful state. Lilies come in many colours however white lilies are the most commonly used in funerals.

Roses

Roses are another popular choice for funeral and sympathy flowers. They come in a variety of colours, each with its own meaning. Red roses symbolise love and respect, while white roses symbolise purity and innocence. Yellow roses, on the other hand, represent friendship and loyalty.

Carnations

Carnations are a popular choice for funeral and sympathy flowers because of their long-lasting nature. They come in a variety of colours however pink carnations are the most commonly used in funerals. Pink carnations symbolise remembrance, while white carnations symbolise purity and innocence.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are a popular choice for funeral and sympathy flowers in many Asian cultures. They symbolise death and are often used in funerals as a way to honour the deceased. In Australia, chrysanthemums are also a popular choice for funeral and sympathy flowers but they are typically used in white or yellow to represent purity and loyalty.

Orchids

Orchids are a symbol of beauty, love and strength. They come in a variety of colours, but white orchids are the most commonly used in funerals. White orchids represent reverence and humility.

Choosing the right funeral flowers

When choosing funeral and sympathy flowers, consider the relationship you had with the deceased and their cultural and religious beliefs. If you're unsure about what flowers to choose, it's best to consult with a florist who specialises in funeral arrangements.  

If the deceased was a close family member or friend, you may want to choose a larger arrangement or a wreath. If the deceased was an acquaintance or distant relative, a smaller arrangement or a single stem may be more appropriate.  

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Sending funeral flowers

When sending funeral flowers for sympathy flowers, it's important to include a heartfelt card or note. Your message should be sincere and heartfelt, expressing your condolences and offering support to the family and friends of the deceased.  

If you're unable to attend the funeral in person, you can also have the flowers delivered to the funeral home or the family's home. Make sure to include the name of the deceased and the address of the funeral home or family's home when placing your order.

Funeral flower etiquette

When it comes to funeral and sympathy flowers, there are certain etiquette guidelines that you should consider. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Respect the cultural and religious beliefs of the deceased and their family

Different cultures and religions have their own customs and beliefs when it comes to funerals and funeral  and sympathy flowers. If applicable, make sure to research and respect these beliefs.

Consider the wishes of the deceased and their family

If the family has requested that donations be made in lieu of flowers, it's important to respect their wishes. You can still express your condolences by sending a sympathy card or note.  

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Consider the wishes of the deceased and their family

If the family has requested that donations be made in lieu of flowers, it's important to respect their wishes. You can still express your condolences by sending a sympathy card or note.

Send flowers in a timely manner

Funeral and sympathy flowers should be sent as soon as possible after the death of the individual. If you're unable to attend the funeral in person, you can have the flowers delivered to the funeral home or the family's home.  

During a time of grieving, funeral and sympathy flowers can be a comforting way to show support. It's natural to want to choose the perfect flowers to honour your loved one's memory. Whether it's lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, carnations, gladioli, orchids, or hydrangeas, know that what truly matters is the sentiment behind the gesture.  

Drawing inspiration from the deceased's favourite colours or blooms can make an arrangement even more special. Remember to choose a trustworthy florist who can assist you in creating a beautiful and heartfelt display. Ultimately, it's the thought and care that goes into the gesture that will bring comfort to those who are mourning the loss of a loved one.