Funeral Flowers



Funeral Flowers - Is it an expected part of funeral etiquette to send flowers?

First check the bereavement and funeral notice in the newspaper or phone the funeral home. Many people request donations should be made in lieu of flowers, you should respect their wishes.

However, if there are no such requests, flowers can be a great comfort to the family. If the deceased was very popular or well known, too many flowers can be overwhelming. You need to exercise your own judgment here.

Funeral Flower Etiquette - flowers for a traditional funeral:

1. Wreaths and sprays should only be sent to the funeral home and never the deceased person's home.

2. Placing flowers on the casket is a privilege and tradition reserved for the family of the loved one.

3. If sending flowers to the family home, go with an arrangement that comes with a self-contained water vessel. This will save them the hassle of fussing over and maintaining the flowers in a time of grieving where such small tasks may get overlooked.

4. If you are unsure about what color funeral to send, then stick with pastels, as they are a soft safe option.

Funeral Flower Etiquette for different religions and customs

There are different protocols observed for each religion and faith. They are as follows:

5. It is accepted to give flowers in the following faiths: Baha'i, Buddhist, Catholic, Christian, Mormon and Eastern Orthodox. For Mormons, flowers arranged in the shape of a crucifix or a cross is not acceptable. White flowers are preferred if the religion is Eastern Orthodox.

6. Check with the family if the deceased is Islamic or Hindu, as there are varying practices within the religion of giving flowers.

7. In the Jewish faith, it is a practice to send food packages to the home and family of the deceased rather than sending flowers to the funeral home. While it is becoming more accepted by some members of the faith to send flowers to the family at home, it is still frowned upon by Orthodox Jews.

Finally, if you are still unsure about the process associated with the deceased's family, ask the funeral home or the family's religious or cultural leader for advice. Many florists and online dealers are usually well versed in all aspects of funeral etiquette and may also be able to guide you in selecting the right arrangement.

You may also be interested in...

Funeral & Religious Customs

Funeral Service Etiquette

Funeral Dress Etiquette

Funerals & Children

Funeral Etiquette

Pallbearers

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