A Guide To Choosing Funeral Flowers

Choosing funeral flowers is a thoughtful and meaningful way to express your condolences and support to the grieving family. Here are some factors to consider when selecting funeral flowers:

• 1: Relationship with the Deceased: Consider your relationship with the deceased and their family. The choice of flowers should reflect the nature of your relationship, whether you were a close family member, friend, colleague, or acquaintance.

• 2: Personal Preferences: If you know the deceased's or their family's favourite flowers or colours, try to incorporate them into the arrangement. This can make the tribute more personal and meaningful.

• 3: Cultural and religious considerations play a significant role in the selection of funeral flowers, as customs and traditions can vary widely among different cultures and belief systems. Understanding and respecting these considerations is crucial when choosing appropriate floral tributes.

• In many cultures, the choice of flowers is closely tied to the symbolism of life, death, and rebirth. For example, in Christian traditions, lilies are often associated with resurrection and are commonly used at funerals to represent the hope of eternal life. In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, marigolds and lotus flowers may be favoured, as they symbolise purity and spiritual enlightenment.

• Colour is another critical aspect, as it can hold cultural and religious significance. In some cultures, white flowers symbolise purity and mourning, while in others, they may represent rebirth and the afterlife. For example, in many Asian cultures, white is associated with death and mourning, so white flowers may be more appropriate for sympathy arrangements.

• The arrangement's style and design can also be influenced by cultural and religious preferences. Some cultures prefer simple, elegant designs, while others may appreciate more elaborate and ornate arrangements. It's essential to consider the aesthetics and design elements in accordance with the cultural or religious background of the deceased and their family.

• In some religious traditions, such as Islam, it is customary to avoid sending flowers to a funeral. In this case, other gestures of support, like offering condolences and prayers, are more appropriate. Conversely, in Western traditions, flowers are a common way to express sympathy and are generally welcomed.

• Finally, when in doubt about the cultural and religious considerations surrounding funeral flowers, it's a good practice to consult with a family member, close friend, or a religious leader who can provide guidance on the most appropriate choices. Showing sensitivity to these considerations demonstrates your respect for the deceased's cultural or religious background and can offer comfort to the grieving family during a difficult time.

• 4: Funeral Type: Consider the type of funeral service. For example, a traditional funeral may call for more formal flower arrangements, while a celebration of life might allow for more vibrant and colourful choices.

• 5: Floral Arrangement Type: When choosing flowers for a funeral, you have various options, each with its unique characteristics and appropriate uses. Here are the differences between wreaths, casket sprays, standing sprays, bouquets, and sympathy plants:

Wreaths:

• Appearance: Wreaths are circular floral arrangements with an opening in the centre. They can be made on a circular frame or designed to lay flat.

• Placement: Wreaths are often placed on display near the casket or at the entrance of the funeral service.

• Significance: Wreaths symbolise eternity, as they have no beginning or end. They are a common choice for funerals as a tribute to the deceased's memory.

Casket Sprays:

• Appearance: Casket sprays are large, rectangular arrangements placed directly on top of the casket.

• Placement: These floral arrangements are specifically designed to adorn the casket during the funeral service and are typically chosen by close family members.

• Significance: Casket sprays are a prominent and central part of the funeral display, signifying love and respect for the deceased.

Standing Sprays:

• Appearance: Standing sprays are tall, upright arrangements often mounted on an easel. They can take various shapes and sizes.

• Placement: Standing sprays are typically displayed near the casket or at the front of the funeral venue. They are a suitable choice for close friends, extended family, or colleagues.

• Significance: Standing sprays offer a prominent tribute, symbolising sympathy and remembrance for the departed.

Bouquets:

• Appearance: Bouquets are smaller and more compact arrangements, often presented in vases or as handheld bunches of flowers.

• Placement: Bouquets can be placed on the casket, near the guest book, or at the entrance of the funeral venue. They are a versatile choice for various relationships with the deceased.

• Significance: Bouquets convey a personal and heartfelt expression of sympathy and condolences.

Sympathy Plants:

• Appearance: Sympathy plants can include potted flowers or green plants, and they are typically presented in pots or baskets.

• Placement: Sympathy plants can be given to the grieving family to offer long-lasting comfort and a symbol of growth and life.

• Significance: Live plants represent enduring love and support. They are a thoughtful choice for those who want to provide a lasting tribute that can be kept and nurtured by the family.

All of these floral arrangements serve as a way to offer condolences, express sympathy, and honour the memory of the deceased in a manner that is meaningful to both you and the grieving family.

• 6: Budget: Funeral flowers come in a wide range of prices. Consider your budget when selecting an appropriate arrangement. You don't need to spend a fortune to offer a meaningful tribute.

• 7: Sentiments and Messages: Some floral arrangements come with cards or ribbons where you can include a personal message or condolence. Think about what message you want to convey through the flowers.

• 8: Size and Placement: Consider the size of the arrangement in relation to the funeral venue. Larger arrangements are suitable for display near the casket or in the front of the service, while smaller ones may be better for home delivery.

• 9: Scent Sensitivity: Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to strong floral scents. If you are unsure, it's best to choose flowers with milder fragrances or opt for silk or artificial flowers.

• 10: Time of Year: Consider the season when choosing flowers. Selecting blooms that are in season can be more cost-effective and can also symbolise the cycle of life.

• 11: Local Florists: Supporting local florists can be a meaningful choice, as they often have experience in creating appropriate funeral arrangements and can offer personalised service. Fleur by Lizz are Peterborough's leading independent florist and are experienced at providing the perfect flower arrangements for funerals

12: Accessibility: Ensure that the flowers will be delivered to the right location at the right time, especially if the funeral service is taking place at a distant location.

Get Advice On Funeral Flowers From Your Local Florist

It's always a good idea to consult with a florist or a funeral director for guidance, as they can provide insights into what would be most appropriate and offer various options based on your preferences and budget. Ultimately, the choice of funeral flowers should come from the heart, conveying your condolences and support to the grieving family.

Contact Lizz at Fleurs by Lizz on 01733 311159 or visit the flower salon open 9.00 to 4.00 to discuss your funeral flower requirements