Flowers serve an important purpose during a funeral service. The right blooms will honor the life of the deceased and provide comfort to the grieving family. Whether you are planning a family funeral or attending someone’s service, understand how to handle all floral arrangements appropriately by using the guide below. 

Funeral Flowers

What They Are

Funeral flowers are the arrangements on display at the funeral service. They bring a beautiful and personal touch to the service. A casket spray is a popular arrangement of fresh flowers on top of the casket. A full spray is recommended for closed caskets, while a half spray is used for open casket services. Other arrangements you may order include wreaths and garlands. 

What to Order

Lilies are the most popular choice. Their white color represents the restored innocence of the departed. Carnations are popular as well due to their delicate pedals. They come in a variety of colors, so you can mix and match different colors to portray different messages. White conveys innocence, red conveys admiration, and pink represents remembrance.

Sympathy Flowers

What They Are

Sympathy flowers are what you would send to the family of the deceased to express your sympathy. They are typically sent directly to the funeral home; however, if you are unable to send flowers in time for the service, it is acceptable to send the flowers directly to the family’s home. They are uplifting to the family by giving them something beautiful to enjoy and reminding them that they have support in their grief.

What to Order

Check the funeral announcement for specific details, including instructions on the service’s time and the location of the funeral home. If they ask for something else in lieu of flowers—such as giving a donation to a favorite cause of the deceased—follow their wishes. 

If they don’t specify donations over flowers, potted plants are a wonderful choice that will last. Hydrangeas can be planted in their yard, while orchids will last for several weeks in a living space. Choose white blooms for reverence and purity, purple for admiration and respect, or yellow for friendship.

The funeral directors at Leo M. Bean And Sons Funeral Home will guide you through every aspect of planning a service, including the flowers, in Rochester, NY. They have been a part of the community for over 40 years, and are known for their affordable prices with compassionate service. Learn more about their services on their website and call (585) 426-7830 to begin arranging a funeral service.