How to Select Flowers for a Funeral

Many people associate flowers with certain life events or rituals, such as birth, weddings and funerals. Sympathy flower arrangements represent some of the most traditional flower orders for florists. Some people see flowers as showing the connection between life and death, making them a symbolic addition to the funeral ritual. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Consult with a local florist about funeral arrangements. Your florist can help you select flowers for the funeral by showing you the available flowers and various possible arrangements. Let your florist know that you are selecting flowers for a funeral up front so she can help you choose something that conveys consolation and sympathy. You can also find arrangements online to order.
2. Consider any flowers the deceased may have liked. Although some flowers are traditionally used in funeral arrangements, it's appropriate to include flowers the individual particularly liked or had some history with. Maybe the individual really liked pansies or lupine or a particular color. Adding favorite flowers, or flowers in a favorite color can be a fitting tribute to the individual.
3. Choose flowers with an empathetic meaning and that are appropriate. Calla lilies, roses, gladiolas and snapdragons have been traditionally used as funeral accessories. You can also choose flowers because of the meaning attached to them. Golden lilies, for example, are said to symbolize rebirth and purple lilies signify the certainty of death and feelings of loss.
4. Think about the arrangement you want to select. Typical funeral arrangements include funeral wreaths, casket sprays, bereavement bouquets and remembrance baskets. You might decide on a particular arrangement because of its appearance, your relationship to the deceased or the price.
5. Send the flower arrangement to the funeral home in time for the viewing or visitation if at all possible. Otherwise, send the flowers to the home of a close family member. Always include a card with a short sentiment expressing your condolences.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on your relationship to the deceased and who you are sending the flower to, you may want to consider a plant rather than a cut flower arrangement. More people are choosing this option because it allows the recipient to have a reminder of your sympathy and support. Peace lily plants make a great choice as one option.