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| Sympathy
flowers have been a part of funeral and memorial traditions in
nearly every culture throughout history. Flowers add warmth,
beauty, and dignity to the service and, for many, symbolize
eternal life. |
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| Changing
trends in how we say good-bye to love ones, however, often
leave family and friends uncertain about how to appropriately
express their sympathy. Here are some answers to the
most commonly asked questions about sympathy flowers. |
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| Q:
Are there any options to flowers that are too “funeral
looking?” |
| A:
Although very
traditional sympathy arrangements are still requested in many
parts of the country, most florists today are happy to create
a floral tribute that is original, creative, and appropriate.
These more contemporary arrangements, using a variety of
flowers and containers, provide the family with the option to
take them home, give to close friends, or deliver to
hospitals, nursing homes, or places of worship after the
service. At Dr Delphinium Designs our European Garden
Mix arrangements are a popular option, as are our plant
baskets, a mixture of blooming and green plants. |
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| Q:
Sometimes I see a charity mentioned “in lieu of flowers”
in the death notice. Is it still appropriate to send
flowers? |
| A:
Because flowers help you say what is often difficult to
express, they are always appropriate and in good taste.
Many people want to express their sympathy and show respect
for the deceased in a variety of ways, including charitable
contributions, food donations, a helping hand, and cards and
flowers sent to the family’s home or to the funeral service.
Flowers also play a functional role, adding warmth to the
service and providing the visible emotional support that the
bereaved need during this time. Funeral directors tell
us that most people do not want a service completely devoid of
flowers. |
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| Q:
Do some flower arrangements look too “cheery” for a
funeral? |
| A:
Absolutely not. A funeral service is a way to honor
someone’s life, and bright, colorful flowers are a
meaningful part of this tribute. In addition to adding
beauty to an otherwise somber occasion, flowers provide a
comforting diversion- something to talk about or look at-
during the visitation. |
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| Q:
What can I do to make my arrangement special from the rest? |
| A:
To make your floral tribute particularly special, ask your
florist to create an arrangement that fits the deceased’s
personality in some way. For example, we can create
rustic basket of wildflowers to honor someone who loved the
outdoors. You could also include his or her favorite
flowers or colors, or a flower that has a special significance
in your relationship with that person. Whatever you do,
the family is sure to notice and appreciate it. |
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| Q:
I am part of a group. What are some suggestions? |
| A:
When groups, including grandchildren, nieces and nephews,
friends, neighbors, business associates, and clubs go in
together on flowers, the arrangements can be very special and
make a larger showing. Such pieces can include a contact
name and address on the card so the family knows whom to
thank. |
|
| Q:
What is appropriate to send for a cremation? |
| A:
A tastefully done floral tribute adds beauty to any type of
memorial service, whether it’s a traditional burial or a
cremation. Families may choose a piece designed for
display with the urn, or an arrangement that can be enjoyed in
the home after the service. |
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| Q:
I found out about the death after the funeral is over. What
can I do? |
| A:
A floral arrangement received at the home after the
activity surrounding the funeral can be a comforting, welcome
reminder that friends haven’t forgotten. In fact,
research shows that bereaved family and friends appreciate
being thought of in the weeks or months after the funeral.
A personal note or “we are thinking of you” message with
the flowers would be especially nice. Any support you
can offer during the grieving process will let them know you
care. |
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| Some
of the terms used by florists for sympathy arrangements can be
unfamiliar. Here are a few of those most commonly used: |
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| Wreath:
A floral presentation often used because a circle symbolizes
eternal life. |
| Spray:
Flowers designed for viewing from one side only. At Dr
Delphinium Designs all of our sprays are places on an easel. |
| Floral
Arrangement: A mix of fresh flowers in a vase,
basket or other container. |
| Plant
Basket: A mix of blooming and green plants in a
basket. |
| Casket
Spray: Flowers designed for the top of the casket,
usually ordered by family. |
| Inside
Piece: A general term to describe small floral
designs placed inside the casket such as satin hearts,
nosegays, or small sprays. |
