Flowers are a wonderful way to communicate thoughts and feelings when words aren’t enough. We love to send and receive them on joyous occasions such as birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, achievements, and milestones.
But flowers also play a very important role in some of life’s most somber moments because they can express sincere sympathy and lend support to those grieving the loss of a loved one when no words will do.
For many, ordering sympathy flowers can be a confusing and intimidating task, especially when you consider the circumstances, emotions, and responsibilities that you are suddenly forced to handle without much prior notice or time for planning. It can feel not very safe, but your friends at Phoenix Flower Shops are here to help guide you through the process and address any questions or concerns that you have to put your mind at ease.
Selecting the flowers
Divine Peace Bouquet by Phoenix Flower Shops
When deciding on sympathy or funeral flowers, the first thing to consider is your relationship with the deceased. Traditionally, the immediate family selects a memorial wreath or casket spray for the service. Close family and friends often opt for personalized floral tributes that reflect the deceased’s personality, occupation, hobbies, or passions. These flowers are typically displayed during the funeral service.
Other friends, relatives, and co-workers have many other options available including plants and simple floral baskets which can either be used for the service itself or sent to the home of the bereaved. The best choice in this instance are flowers that reflect the personality or relationship with the deceased as many modern funeral services focus on the celebration of life more so than mourning the passing.
When to send flowers
Timing varies greatly depending upon several factors, but a good rule of thumb is to order funeral flowers at least 24 hours before the funeral or memorial service and even 48 hours for larger pieces like wreaths or sprays. Many funeral homes prefer to have the flowers in place several hours before the ceremony, so the earlier you order, the better. This also helps the florist by reducing the deliveries they need to make.
Sympathy flowers intended for the family and not the service may be sent directly to the home. The timing of these deliveries isn’t particularly important, so any time after the service is over is appropriate.
In lieu of flowers
There is often some confusion when obituaries contain the phrase: “In Lieu of Flowers.” Contrary to popular belief, this terminology does not mean the family does not want flowers. If that were the case, “please omit” would be used instead. It does, however, indicate that you can donate instead of – or in addition to – sending flowers. Unless expressly stated, flowers are always an appropriate symbol of sympathy.
Other things to consider
With so many different types of memorial services and so many other variables based on religion, cultural, or family preferences, understanding funeral etiquette is not always simple. At Phoenix Flower Shops, we’re here to help you make an appropriate selection and choose a thoughtful gift when filling out your funeral flower order.
When words just aren’t enough…
The most important thing to remember is that a gift of flowers can make a big difference for grieving family members and friends. Flowers often speak louder than words and let them know you are thinking of them during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Your friends at Phoenix Flower Shops will help you find the right type of arrangement, and we are happy to offer guidance and suggestions if you’re unsure which style or design you wish to send. After you order, you can rest assured knowing that we will handle all the details to ensure your flowers are delivered to the proper place at the proper time.
