How to Send Funeral Flowers
Funeral flowers are most often sent to the funeral home for display during the viewing and service. While there is no right or wrong type of arrangement to send, flower bouquets in a vase or basket are traditional styles of arrangements. Easel sprays and wreaths are also appropriate and are customarily sent by family and close friends. Typically funeral flower arrangements can include a variety of fresh cut flowers such as carnations, chrysanthemums, gladiolas, lilies or roses. Florists have catalogues of funeral flower photos available in-store and online to help you visualize the types of arrangements available. Baskets of green and flowering plants also make thoughtful sympathy gifts and your florist can make suggestions on what may be appropriate for the service. The best advice is to follow your heart but when unsure, it is helpful to allow your florist to guide your choices.
As for appropriate colors you have many options to help convey a message of condolences. White flowers are often chosen to symbolize peace and red signifies undying love. Cream tones, yellows or pastels are all popular colors schemes that evoke calm and respect for the family. It is equally appropriate to select brightly hued funeral flowers as a way to honor the essence of the deceased in a more personal way. Sometimes, faith and religion will dictate what color choices are appropriate. Be sure to talk to your florist for specific requirements.
When sending flowers as part of a group of co-workers, family or friends, the sympathy arrangement can often be larger and very special. Designate a group leader to contact the florist and ensure that all of the names are included on the floral enclosure card or sign as a group, “The Smith Family”.
Floral tributes are also appropriate to send to memorial services when cremation has taken place. Your florist will be able to make suggestions when traditional burial has not occurred. Some will choose to send flowers to the surviving members’ home, which is also acceptable. This gives the message of, “we are thinking of you.”