How to Send Flowers to Funeral Home: A Guide to Expressing Sympathy with Floral Tributes

Sending flowers to a funeral home is a timeless gesture of sympathy and respect. It’s a way to express condolences, honor the deceased, and provide comfort to the grieving family. However, the process of sending flowers to a funeral home can be nuanced, involving considerations such as the type of flowers, the timing, and the etiquette surrounding the gesture. In this article, we will explore various aspects of sending flowers to a funeral home, offering insights and tips to ensure your floral tribute is both meaningful and appropriate.

Understanding the Significance of Funeral Flowers

Flowers have long been associated with funerals, serving as a symbol of life, beauty, and the cycle of nature. They can convey emotions that words often fail to express, offering a tangible form of comfort to those who are mourning. Different types of flowers carry different meanings, and choosing the right ones can add a personal touch to your tribute.

Choosing the Right Type of Flowers

When selecting flowers for a funeral, it’s important to consider the preferences of the deceased and their family. Traditional choices include lilies, roses, and chrysanthemums, which are often associated with peace, love, and remembrance. However, you may also opt for more personalized arrangements that reflect the deceased’s favorite flowers or colors.

Lilies

Lilies are perhaps the most commonly associated with funerals. Their pure white petals symbolize the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased.

Roses

Roses, particularly white ones, signify purity and innocence, while red roses express love and respect. Yellow roses can symbolize friendship, making them a suitable choice for honoring a close friend.

Chrysanthemums

In many cultures, chrysanthemums are exclusively used for funerals or graves. They symbolize death and are often seen as a way to honor the deceased.

Timing Your Floral Delivery

Timing is crucial when sending flowers to a funeral home. Ideally, the flowers should arrive before the funeral service begins, allowing them to be displayed during the ceremony. It’s advisable to contact the funeral home in advance to confirm the best time for delivery. Some funeral homes may have specific guidelines or restrictions regarding floral arrangements, so it’s important to be aware of these before making your order.

Etiquette and Considerations

When sending flowers to a funeral home, there are several etiquette guidelines to keep in mind:

Addressing the Arrangement

Ensure that the floral arrangement is addressed correctly. Typically, the card should be addressed to the family of the deceased, with a brief message of condolence.

Respecting Cultural and Religious Practices

Different cultures and religions have varying customs regarding funeral flowers. For example, in some Jewish traditions, sending flowers to a funeral is not customary. It’s important to be aware of and respect these practices when choosing to send flowers.

Considering the Family’s Wishes

Some families may request that donations be made to a charity in lieu of flowers. If this is the case, it’s respectful to honor their wishes rather than sending flowers.

Alternative Floral Tributes

In addition to traditional floral arrangements, there are other ways to incorporate flowers into a funeral tribute:

Living Plants

A living plant, such as a peace lily or a small tree, can serve as a lasting memorial. These can be taken home by the family and cared for, providing a continuous reminder of the deceased.

Floral Wreaths

Floral wreaths are often used to adorn the casket or the entrance of the funeral home. They can be customized with specific flowers or colors to reflect the personality of the deceased.

Floral Sprays

Floral sprays are large arrangements that are typically placed on an easel and displayed near the casket. They can be designed to include a variety of flowers and greenery, creating a striking visual tribute.

Conclusion

Sending flowers to a funeral home is a thoughtful and meaningful way to express sympathy and honor the deceased. By choosing the right type of flowers, timing your delivery appropriately, and respecting cultural and family preferences, you can ensure that your floral tribute is both respectful and comforting. Whether you opt for a traditional arrangement or a more personalized tribute, your gesture will undoubtedly be appreciated by the grieving family.

Q: Can I send flowers to a funeral home if I can’t attend the service? A: Yes, sending flowers to a funeral home is a common way to express condolences even if you are unable to attend the service. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows your support for the grieving family.

Q: Are there any flowers that are considered inappropriate for a funeral? A: While most flowers are appropriate for funerals, it’s best to avoid overly bright or festive arrangements that might seem out of place in a somber setting. Additionally, be mindful of cultural or religious customs that may dictate specific flower choices.

Q: How much should I spend on funeral flowers? A: The amount you spend on funeral flowers is a personal decision and can vary widely depending on your budget and the type of arrangement you choose. It’s more important to focus on the thoughtfulness of the gesture rather than the cost.

Q: Can I send flowers to a funeral home after the service? A: Yes, you can send flowers to a funeral home after the service. Many families appreciate receiving flowers in the days following the funeral as a continued expression of sympathy and support.

Q: What should I write on the card that accompanies the flowers? A: Keep your message brief and heartfelt. A simple expression of sympathy, such as “With deepest sympathy” or “Thinking of you during this difficult time,” is appropriate. You may also include a personal note or memory if you knew the deceased well.