Although customs vary according to the religion or ethnicity of the family, condolences as flowers or baskets are often sent to the church, funeral home, or family home.
If the obituary specifically asks for donations to a charity instead of flowers, it is good manners to follow the family’s wishes.
Flowers for funeral – choosing appropriate condolence flowers.
Traditionally, flowers are a symbol of growth, new life and progress. The natural beauty of condolence flowers at a funeral and in the home of the mourners adds a sense of warmth and comfort to the surroundings.
Today, flowers are not mandatory at funerals, but they are an appropriate way to express love for the deceased and concern for family members. Flowers can be ordered from a florist and delivered to the funeral home or home.
Flowers for funeral should arrive at the funeral home prior to the first visitation time so that the arrangement can greet the family when they arrive. If time does not permit delivery before visitation time, you may send flowers or plants to the home of the bereaved. A potted plant has obvious symbolic meaning, as it will live on and grow.
Traditional floral arrangements for funerals
Flowers for funerals are generally classified by their function. Here are some of the most commonly used types of arrangements:
– Wreaths – These are circular flower arrangements that represent eternal life.
– Flower Arrangements – There are many types of flower arrangements, from cut flowers to basket and container arrangements. See examples of floral arrangements for condolences.
– Sprays – These are arrangements that can only be viewed from one side.
– Casket Sprays – These are usually organized by the immediate family and are placed on the casket.
– Interior Pieces – These are the items that are placed inside the casket, such as small floral sayings.
Sometimes condolence flowers are not appropriate
Sometimes flowers are not appropriate. For example, when the family asks for donations instead of flowers. Many religions and cultures welcome flowers for funeral ceremonies. However, in some religions, such as Judaism and Islam, flowers are not traditionally received.
At Islamic funerals, some people send flowers, and others do not. However, it is customary to place individual flowers on graves along with palm branches and other greenery. Flowers are not a traditional part of Hindu funerals, but they are not unwelcome.
In Buddhist funerals, white or yellow flowers are acceptable, but red flowers are not.
Choosing the right flowers for funeral in Klang Valley
There are no specific types or colours of flowers that should be sent at funerals or to the homes of the bereaved. There are, of course, many favourite flowers. Carnations, chrysanthemums, gladioli, lilies and roses are popular choices for floral arrangements at funerals. White lilies represent peace and red roses express love. If the deceased always enjoyed gardening and had a favourite flower and colour, it would be very comforting for the bereaved to receive an arrangement with these varieties.
See our Flowers for Asian Funerals page for more information on flowers in Chinese cultures.
Browse Aliiceflorist’s collection of funeral flowers to find the right expression of sympathy.
