Knowing how to offer comfort when someone passes away can feel overwhelming.
Sending flowers is a thoughtful way to show support, but there are important guidelines to keep in mind.
Understanding which flowers to send, when to send them, and how to respect cultural and personal preferences ensures your gesture is meaningful and respectful.
Choosing the Right Flowers
Each flower has a unique meaning, which can add depth to your message.
Lilies are often associated with peace and represent the restored innocence of the soul, making them a popular choice for funerals.
Roses are another common option, and their colours convey different sentiments: white roses signify purity, while red roses express love and respect.
Carnations, with their lasting blooms, symbolise love and remembrance, and orchids represent eternal love, adding elegance to any arrangement.
When choosing flowers, consider the message you want to send. Whether it’s peace, love, or respect, your choice of flowers can reflect your personal connection to the person being honoured and offer comfort to those mourning.
When Should You Send Flowers?
Sending flowers before the funeral service is common, but it’s also thoughtful to send them afterwards.
Flowers sent directly to the service are often larger, formal arrangements like wreaths, casket toppers, or standing sprays. These are typically intended to be displayed at the funeral or memorial service.
If you miss the service, sending sympathy flowers to the family’s home or workplace in the days or weeks following the funeral is equally appropriate. This shows that you are still thinking of them beyond the immediate mourning period.
A smaller arrangement or bouquet can offer comfort during a quieter time, reminding the recipient that they are not alone in their grief.
Respecting Cultural and Religious Traditions
Different cultures and religions have unique customs around the use of flowers at funerals, and it’s important to be mindful of these traditions. In many cultures, white flowers symbolise peace and are commonly used at services.
However, some religions or traditions may discourage the use of flowers altogether, or they might have specific preferences.
If you’re unsure what is appropriate, checking with a family member or close friend can provide clarity. It’s always best to err on the side of respect by following the family’s customs.
Your thoughtful gesture will carry more meaning if it aligns with their beliefs and traditions.
Writing a Thoughtful Message
A heartfelt message on the card makes your flowers that much more special. There’s no need to overthink it—sometimes, just a few kind words can bring real comfort. You might write, "With deepest sympathy," "In loving memory," or "Thinking of you during this difficult time."
If you shared memories with the person who passed, adding a personal touch—like a short note about a special moment or what they meant to you—can mean the world to their loved ones.
It's these small, thoughtful words that show you care and help others feel supported when they need it most.