After the death of a friend or family member those in mourning need a support system to help them deal with the anguish of losing a loved one. Most people are keen to help in whatever way they can, and nothing is more appropriate than the age old tradition of sending funeral flowers to express their sympathy. Different cultures have different ways of showing their support and carrying out their funeral procedures, but funeral flowers are a constant. Even the Irish, who I personally feel have the best way of commemorating the dead by means of wakes, find it fitting to carry flowers for the bereaved.
Funeral Flower Etiquette
It’s best to consult a florist before making your selection as they know better what kind of funeral arrangement would be appropriate for traditional ceremonies or an open casket. Cultural taboos must be observed and therefore a professional needs to be consulted to guide you towards a suitable selection. Due to changing trends in funeral services, it is also considered acceptable if you send flowers that reflect the deceased’s personality. For instance, a basket of wildflowers for somebody who loved the outdoors. It’s considered more personal and heart warming when compared to the traditional bouquets and sheaths.
Wreaths are considered an appropriate funeral arrangement for offering your condolences as they symbolize the circle of life. Small plants such as bonsai or saplings are also offered to symbolize the renewal of life and it is believed that the very act of caring for a plant may speed up the grieving process and set up healing. Or you could select the deceased favorite flowers. Whatever you do, the family is sure to notice your effort and be grateful for your presence in those difficult times.
Sympathy Funeral Flowers
Don’t fret if you miss a funeral because you were informed about it late or because you were traveling. It is considered appropriate to send funeral flowers up to one month after the funeral. In fact it is a fine gesture to send it a couple of days after the funeral. The initial outpouring of sympathy which was very comforting for the bereaved has subsided by then, friends and relatives have gone back home and it is then that the reality sets in. Consider sending flowers with a message that says ‘I am there for you should you need me’. It would be greatly comforting to the family to realize of your support.
Also since the bereaved may not be in the state of mind to accept individual sympathies immediately after their loss, flowers are a wonderful way of showing you care without invading their privacy.
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