Flowers are often important parts of a funeral service. Friends and family will send arrangements to honor the deceased and their loved ones. How do you know when it is appropriate to send flowers and which kinds should you pick? Below is a guide.

When & Where to Send Flowers

Sending a floral arrangement for a funeral service is a beautiful way to express your condolences and provide something uplifting during a difficult time. Wreaths and bouquets can be delivered directly to the funeral home where funeral directors will arrange everything appropriately around the casket during the viewing or wake. Typically, flowers from immediate family are placed closest to the deceased, and wreaths and sprays for the casket itself are reserved for those closest to the person who has died.  

If you are not close to the family but want to send condolences, you may choose to send your arrangement to their home or office. In this case, baskets and vases are more appropriate than a wreath or spray and can be sent the week of the funeral service or the following week to show your support.

When Not to Send Flowers

Before sending flowers, check the culture and faith of the deceased and their family. There are certain details that may need to be avoided, like crosses for a Mormon funeral. Jewish services tend to not have flowers at the funeral home, but you may send them or a fruit basket to the family’s home.

Some Islamic funerals also do not include flowers, so it is best to ask when you are not sure. For Buddhist funeral services, avoid red flowers and stick to arrangements that feature white or yellow blooms. Hindu services prefer garlands over any other type.

If the family requests donations in lieu of flowers, you should respect that wish and do as they have asked. They may also request that all arrangements be sent to a certain location, which are directions that should be followed.

Funeral Flower Choices

Different flowers and colors have different meanings, and your choices depend on the message you want to convey. Common options are white lilies that represent peace and the soul, and pink carnations for remembrance. Red roses are for love, pink for grace, white for innocence, and yellow to celebrate life. Gladioli represent strength, while orchids mean enduring love.

Since 1975, Arndt Funeral Home, LLC has been the caring choice for families in Rochester, NY, who have suffered losses. The funeral home also offers a variety of flowers and gifts to show your support when someone dies. Each order is delivered directly from your local florist. Families turn to them for compassionate funeral services and grief counseling during a most difficult time. In addition, they provide funeral preplanning services so you can organize your affairs ahead of time. Call (585) 225-6350 to begin funeral arrangements or visit them online to place your flower order.