Things to Put in a Funeral Flower Basket

Add something special to a funeral flower basket to make it stand out.

Funerals are complicated, as proper etiquette isn't always known and emotions are at an all-time high. Send or deliver a flower basket for the grieving family that both expresses your sympathy and adds something personal. You can add something that speaks of your relationship with the deceased or something extra to help the family through their time of loss.

Flowers

Flowers are an obvious addition to a funeral flower basket, though the type and colors can vary. There is no wrong color or flower type, since the flowers represent your sympathy and a celebration of the deceased person's life. Red and white were once the appropriate color for funeral flowers, though any color that's significant to you, the deceased or your relationship with him -- such as his favorite color -- is a suitable choice. Larger flowers are best if the basket will be delivered to the funeral home, while smaller flowers are ideal if the basket will be delivered to someone's home.

Card or Note

A simple card or note should accompany the flowers so the family knows who sent them and where to send a thank you note. If you're unsure what to write, stick to simple prewritten cards or familiar phrases, such as "with deepest sympathy." Include your favorite poem, phrase or quote if you have one, especially if it relays the way you feel about the deceased or has to do with the loss of a loved one. Write out your favorite memory of the deceased or a personal note if you feel inclined and can find the words.

Food Items

Packaged food or small snacks arranged in with the flowers can help the decedent's loved ones sustain enough energy to get the emotional day of the funeral. Fruit, packaged nuts or crackers can go a long way. However, the food items would need to be artfully displayed to avoid taking away from the floral arrangement, but still standing out enough for the recipient of the basket to notice the snacks. Gum, hard candies or mints are other ideas that can be helpful to relieve dry mouths and freshen breath throughout the day.

Practical Items

Small, practical items can help the decedent's family members through the funeral, such as prepackaged tissue or hand sanitizer. Keepsakes or mementos, such as a tear jar, are also practical items to include in the flower basket. Add a special picture of the deceased, or have the photo printed on a handkerchief. Select an item that has meaning for you and the represents your feelings or relationship with the deceased.