After the passing of someone you know and love, part of the mourning process includes honoring the deceased and offering sympathy to their family. No matter how close you were, flowers are the perfect way to do both. With so many different options available, however, it can be difficult to figure out what’s most appropriate. The following guide discusses what you should think about when selecting floral arrangements for a funeral.

5 Tips for Choosing Appropriate Flowers for a Funeral

1. Consider Your Relationship With the Deceased

What you choose to send depends on how close you were to the deceased. Remember that casket flowers are generally provided by the closest family members, such as the widowed or their children. Basket and vase arrangements, sprays, wreaths, and plants are good for close friends. For extended family, standing sprays are suitable. Friends and colleagues can send bouquets and arrangements.

2. Take Cultural Background Into Account

While most available funeral flowers are acceptable for any culture, you should certainly consider the faith and cultural practices of the deceased. For example, warm colors like red are typically seen as a sign of happiness in Chinese traditions. If you are unsure, ask the family or those close to them about their preferences.

3. Research the Meanings of Flowers

When looking up types of flowers, your relation to the deceased will help you make your choice. White roses and lilies symbolize the purity and innocence of those who passed. Chrysanthemums represent truth and are commonly included in arrangements. For expressing sympathy, you can pick white or pink orchids. Red roses are known to show love and respect, and at funerals, they also represent grief.

4. Go for Long-Lasting Arrangements

Depending on the preferences of the immediate family, the funeral process can take anywhere from a couple of days to a week. Elect to send durable plants, such as roses, chrysanthemums, hydrangeas, and lilies.

5. Contact the Funeral Home

If you want the flowers to be present at the funeral, you should have them sent from the florist directly to the funeral home. Find out whether they have any regulations or rules to follow for arrangements. Some establishments do not accept glass vases, for instance, because they may spill or break when moved.

Forget Me Not Flower Shop can help you honor a lost loved one and offer proper condolences to their family. This North Haven, CT, flower shop has offered unique arrangements, fast delivery, and compassionate customer service for over 40 years. To speak with a friendly staff member, call (203) 248-7589 today. You can browse available funeral flowers on their website.