Families often must make a variety of tough decisions following the loss of a loved one. Without a specific wish outlined by the deceased, choosing details such as funeral and burial bouquets can be overwhelming.
Many options exist for funeral flower arrangements. Whether you’re trying to plan a loved one’s funeral or wanting to buy a funeral floral arrangement as a gift for the ceremony of a friend or relative, we can help. Here’s what you need to know about funeral flower arrangements and choosing the appropriate setup for your event.
Understand the Purpose of Funeral Arrangements
Funerals are unavoidably somber affairs. However, they’re also a way to remember a loved one and celebrate their lives. If your loved one had a specific favorite flower, this could be an appropriate opportunity to remind everyone of the decedent’s interests and passion for life. In other cases, use flowers to represent a person’s interests and loves. For example, a dedicated alumnus or alumna of a university may wish to have a funeral arrangement in the college’s colors. Details like these can help remind the funeral goers of the life and joy the decedent possessed.
Choose a Hearty Flower
In general, it’s a good idea to avoid delicate floral arrangements in favor of options that are resistant to temperature or wilting. One reason chrysanthemums are so popular is that they resist wilting and maintain their shape and color in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions. Part of the intention of funeral flowers is to detract from the intense sorrow of a loved one’s passing, and wilted flowers do little to enhance the mood.
Consider Your Budget
Cost is an important consideration for many families and may be even more so for families who lose a family member unexpectedly. In general, the cost of the flower depends on the type and arrangement. For example, casket sprays tend to be the most expensive, while bouquets are the most cost-effective. If you have a limited budget for flowers, consider using flowers you receive as gifts for the funeral service, or use bouquets strategically throughout the space.
Be Aware of Religious Considerations
Many religions support the use of flowers in celebrating a loved one’s life, but certain faiths, such as Judaism, specifically prevent it. Be aware of your loved one’s preferences and religious affiliations--and the traditions that go along with those affiliations--before choosing flowers.
What to Do With Flowers After the Ceremony
Many people feel overwhelmed by the number of flowers following a funeral service or ceremony. You have several options for your funeral flowers:
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Take them home or give them to friends, family, and other attendees.
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Leave them at the venue for the memorial service staff to take care of.
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Leave them at the gravesite of your loved one.
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Donate them to brighten up a nursing home or hospital.
Choosing floral funeral arrangements for your loved one can be a difficult process, both emotionally and practically. Start by choosing blooms that represent your loved one’s interests and life, while opting for hearty choices that will stay beautiful throughout the ceremony. Consider any religious traditions and your budget while making your final selections. Follow these guidelines and you’ll be sure to select the most appropriate funeral flower arrangements to celebrate the life of your loved one.
Here are some more articles about funeral flowers from Funerals360 to help you with your research.
To shop for funeral flowers and compare florists in your area, click here.
