Funeral Arrangement Flowers

Funeral arrangement flowers are a heartfelt way to express sympathy, offer condolences, and honor the memory of the deceased. When selecting flowers for a funeral, consider the symbolism and meaning behind different types of flowers, as well as cultural or religious customs that may influence the choice. Here’s a guide to help you in arranging funeral flowers:

Common Types of Funeral Flowers

1. Lilies:
   • Symbolism: Purity and the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased.
   • Common Varieties: White lilies, particularly white stargazer lilies.
2. Roses:
   • Symbolism: Different colors symbolize different emotions; red for love and respect, white for reverence and innocence, yellow for friendship.
   • Common Arrangements: Wreaths, sprays, or casket flowers.
3. Chrysanthemums:
   • Symbolism: In many cultures, they symbolize death and are used exclusively for funerals.
   • Color Variations: White chrysanthemums are often used for mourning and grief.
4. Carnations:
   • Symbolism: Love and admiration.
   • Common Colors: White for pure love, red for admiration.
5. Orchids:
   • Symbolism: Eternal love.
   • Popular Choices: White and pink orchids, which usually symbolize sympathy and everlasting love.

Types of Arrangements

1. Standing Sprays:
   • Arrangements displayed on an easel, usually near the casket. They can be one-sided or designed to be viewed from all sides.
2. Wreaths:
   • Circular arrangements that represent eternal life and are often placed on stands.
3. Casket Sprays:
   • Large floral arrangements that cover a significant portion of the casket. There are full-casket sprays for closed caskets and half-casket sprays for open caskets.
4. Floral Basket:
   • Arrangements that come in a basket and can be placed anywhere in the funeral home.
5. Funeral Cross or Heart:
   • Shaped floral arrangements that symbolize faith or love, respectively.

Cultural and Religious Considerations

• Christianity: White flowers are common, symbolizing peace, innocence, and the resurrection.
• Buddhism: White flowers are preferred as a sign of mourning.
• Hinduism: Garlands are often used, and flowers like marigolds are common.
• Jewish: It is often customary to send donations to charities in lieu of flowers.
• Islam: In some traditions, flowers may not be used at all.

Additional Tips

1. Offer a Message: Include a heartfelt message or card expressing your condolences.
2. Consider Seasonal Flowers: Opting for flowers that are in season can provide a wider variety of choices and sometimes lower costs.
3. Coordinate with the Funeral Home: It’s often helpful to coordinate with the funeral home to know about any specific arrangements or guidelines they have.

By thoughtfully selecting and arranging flowers, you can convey your sentiments and pay a beautiful tribute to the departed.