What are the Appropriate Flowers for Sympathy?

Flowers, as a sign of sympathy, are a traditional way to at least somewhat comfort the family. Because they have lost a member, you can take their mind off their grief a little. We consider them to be a timeless option for such an event. As the language of flowers can tell more than people, sometimes. Especially if we take into consideration that it can be quite challenging to express thoughts and convey the right words. 

Undoubtedly, giving and receiving flowers on joyful occasions is pleasant for everyone. However, our life, unfortunately, does not consist of only holidays, weddings, and anniversaries. Sometimes we have to participate in very sad events, say condolence. So you need to express your grief and sympathy in another way.

As in many others, flowers for grieving come to the rescue in such a situation. They help both express condolences and emphasize elation, joy, and admiration. Truly, they are a universal gift of nature.

Consider below all the necessary information to know about appropriate flowers for sympathy.

Rules for Presenting Flowers at Funerals

There are no hard and fast rules for presenting flowers at funerals, but there are some general guidelines that can help you choose the right flowers and present them in a respectful way. Here are some guidelines to know what flowers to send for death:

• Choose flowers that are appropriate for the occasion. Avoid flowers that are too bright or cheerful. Instead, choose flowers that are more subdued, such as white lilies, roses, or carnations
• Consider the deceased's favorite flowers. If you know what the deceased's favorite flowers were, consider choosing them for the funeral. This is a thoughtful way to show your respect and honor their memory.
• Keep the size of the arrangement in mind. You don't want to overwhelm the funeral home or the other mourners with a large, over-the-top arrangement. Instead, choose an arrangement that is the right size for the occasion. You can choose the best sympathy flower from various colors, and styles of the event.
• Arranging pots on the grave is one of the most popular ways to conduct funeral processions today. These events are unique because the flowers can grow in pots and be a reminder to the deceased's family.
• Deliver the flowers to the funeral home or church before the service begins. This will ensure that the flowers are there when the mourners arrive.

Appropriate Flowers for Sympathy

There are no plants whose direct purpose is to convey the bitterness of human loss. But some flower blossoms can express sincere condolences. You can choose flowers based on the taste of the deceased person:

• They can be carnations, irises, calla lilies, roses, tulips, or orchids;
• Suppose the deceased was a follower of Islam or a resident of one of the Eastern countries. In this case, it is essential to remember that you should not give chrysanthemum flowers. It is not the best way to express condolences to relatives. They have a meaning in Eastern culture incompatible with mourning events;
• A special place in the list of flowers for grieving to express mourning is the irises. In many cultures, these flowers symbolize hope for rebirth. Thus, an incredibly touching gesture would be to honor the memory of the deceased with a bouquet.

The person who has lost a loved one may find comfort in your beautiful flowers. Also, they can be delighted with a thoughtful card and accompanying message. Consult a professional florist if you don't know what flowers to send. They can give you some great ideas. In most cases, you can choose from several ready-made condolence flower arrangements. You can pick up the flowers yourself or have to have them delivered but consider enclosing a card as well. Read below to know what flowers are good for sympathy.

Irises

Irises are beautiful and delicate flowers. They are associated with wisdom, courage, and hope, all of which can be comforting to the bereaved. Irises are associated with a variety of meanings and symbolism. In Greek mythology, Iris was the goddess of the rainbow. She was said to be a messenger of the gods, and her rainbow was a symbol of hope and peace. Irises are also associated with wisdom, courage, and strength. In many cultures, irises are seen as a symbol of new beginnings.

Roses

When choosing roses for a funeral, you should give preference to their mix. We consider them to be the best sympathy flower.  In a flower arrangement intended for a significant person, combinations of the following shades are appropriate:

• white;
• peach;
• pink;
• yellow. 

Another right decision is to buy a bouquet of purple or purple-pink roses. White funeral flowers, symbolizing innocence and youth, are the most appropriate. But we still recommend that you follow the tastes of the deceased.

Carnations

Bright red carnations symbolize passion, blood, life and, at the same time, the willingness to shed blood to sacrifice life. These flowers for grieving are brought to the funerals of soldiers, athletes, mentors, and teachers, that is, all those who are called to full dedication and selfless service to a high goal. An even number of red carnations are traditionally laid at war memorials and mass graves.

White Lilies

As a rule, people give a white lily to a grieving family who has lost a young man. The reason is that the white color of the flower symbolizes purity and youthfulness. Also, a white Stargazer lily is good for a grieving family or person. As it symbolizes sympathy.

Gladioluses

As a sympathy flower, the gladiolus flower symbolizes:

• memory;
• loyalty;
• strength of character;
• moral integrity. 

They are good flowers to send for death. It also reminds relatives of the deceased that they can find the strength to move on. And you have helped them a little to face a difficult chapter in their lives.

Black Roses

Black roses are a unique and uncommon choice for sympathy flowers. But they can symbolize grief and loss. Black roses are often associated with death, mourning, and farewell. So it makes them a good option for expressing condolences.

Sunflowers

Sunflowers are appropriate flowers for sympathy. Their bright and cheerful appearance can bring comfort and positivity to grieving people. Sunflowers symbolize life and renewal. We consider that it may be a cheerful gesture during loss and transition.

How to Arrange a Bouquet for Sympathy?

Arranging a bouquet for sympathy requires sensitivity and thoughtfulness. Here are some guidelines to follow:

• Consider the size and shape of the bouquet. Sympathy bouquets can come in a range of sizes and shapes:

• from small handheld bouquets;
• to larger arrangements. 

Consider where you will leave the bouquet and choose a size and shape that will fit in the space.

• Choose appropriate flowers. You know what flowers are good for sympathy, so you can prefer red, blue, and even light colors. But make a composition of them as a cross if the deceased was a Christian. Such a bouquet helps express condolences and emphasize the attitude toward the deceased.
• Add greenery or filler flowers. Adding greenery or filler flowers to the bouquet can help create a sense of balance and add texture. Consider using ferns, eucalyptus, or baby's breath as filler.
• Wrap the bouquet appropriately. Consider wrapping the best sympathy flowers in tissue paper or cellophane and tying them with a ribbon. Avoid overly bright or patterned wrapping paper. As this can detract from the occasion's solemnity.
• Attach a note. Consider attaching a note to the bouquet expressing your condolences. It will be support for the family.
• Deliver the bouquet appropriately. If the bouquet is being sent to the funeral home, make sure it arrives before the service. 

When to Send Sympathy Flowers?

You can follow our recommendations to deliver appropriate flowers for sympathy: 

• On the anniversary of death. It can be a way to show that you are still thinking of the family and that you recognize the ongoing impact of their loss.
• On holidays or special occasions. Holidays and special occasions can be difficult for those grieving. As they can be a reminder of the person who is no longer with them. 
• Right on the funerals. This is the best way as your gesture will be definitely on time.

Special Considerations

In most religions, flowers are usually present at funerals. We send them to the family, they decorate the graves, and we place them on the grave as a sign of gratitude. 

• In some religions, however, sending a floral gift is inappropriate. Regardless of religion, we encourage you to consider whether flowers would be appropriate for the deceased's family during this difficult time.
• Expressing condolences is not just about words and actions but about your behavior in general, including appearance. For a farewell or funeral, it is customary to come dressed in darker, preferably black, colors. 
• When approaching the place of the ceremony is necessary to put the phone on silent mode. 
• It is customary to bring bouquets with an odd number of flowers for grieving. 
• It is strictly forbidden to carry extraneous telephone conversations, to speak loudly, and all the more to laugh. 
• It is necessary to respect other people's grief. Memorial speeches at the funeral should also be brief, sensitive, and sincere.

Bottom Line

At Rosaholics, we understand that expressing sympathy and support during a difficult time can be challenging. In times of grief, people need their friends and family to be there for them. It can't be easy to get through such a time, but kind words, caring gifts, and the presence of loved ones help go a very long way. We can help to decide what flowers for sympathy to buy.

Sending flowers becomes an invaluable gesture and expression of support to those who cannot be there for them during this grief. For many people, physically being near the deceased may not be possible due to distance. So do not hesitate to contact us, and we will do all possible to meet your expectations.

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