Death and flowers have a long history together: flowers would be put on graves as far back as 62,000 years ago. Bodies of the deceased were anointed with fragrant flowers and herbs. Due to their fragile beauty, symbolizing the life cycle, floral arrangements are still an important part of funeral services.
With a wide variety of choices, and social and religious customs to negotiate, flower selection can sometimes be a daunting process. To get useful advice, you can turn to the expertise of your online or local florist, or the funeral home itself. Here are a few considerations:
Who are the flowers for?
When someone dies, flowers can be used for two purposes: As a tribute to the dearly departed sent to the funeral home,orsympathy flowers or plants for the loved ones of the deceased.While tribute bouquets tend to be large, formal arrangements that will show well in the funeral home or at the graveside, sympathy flowers areusually small to mid-size arrangements in baskets or vasessent directly to the home of the loved ones. Of course, you can send both.
Consider the family first
In sending flowers to a funeral home, you should be aware that it is usually the deceased’s family or the people closest to them who would decide which arrangement will sit atop the casket, as well as the inside casket pieces and funeral crosses.
Check with the family to see if they want you to take their lead as far as specific floral choices and colour schemes. If the family asks that a donation be made in lieu of sending flowers, it’s usually okay if you want to make the donation and send the flowers as a token of your regard.
Once you decide to send an arrangement, choices include funeral sprays (usually standing on an easel), wreaths, funeral baskets, tied sheaves, floral hearts and handcrafted floral cushions and tributes. Or you might elect to send a personal tribute, such as an arrangement in the form of a book for a former school teacher.
Things to keep in mind
Knowing the personality and preferences of the deceased and of their grieving family will help you pick a favourite flower or colour. Or you might use a bright arrangement to serve as a tribute to what used to be the departed’s high-energy nature.
Make note of the symbolism behind certain colours. For example, white flowers represent peace and reverence, and blue flowers represent calm and comfort. Those might be better choices than green flowers, which are associated with health and good fortune.Also be aware that other cultures and religions often have different takes on what is appropriate for funerals.
Regardless of what you decide, it is thoughtful to send flowers during this time of sorrow. If you're unsure about what's appropriate, check with the funeral director.
