It’s important to follow some guidelines when sending sympathy flowers. At a sensitive time none of us want to cause unintentional distress or offense but, by keeping a few simple tips in mind, making a floral gift to the grieving can be easy.
Here are a few essential points to keep in mind as you choose sympathy or funeral flowers.
Sending Your Sympathy Flowers
Sympathy flowers are almost always an appropriate gift but it’s a good idea to consider the background and personal wishes of the recipient before going forward with your order (for example, if recipients are Jewish and observe shiva, it is improper to send flowers during this time of grief — choose a fruit basket instead). Once you’re sure that the family or loved ones of the departed would appreciate them, ask where flowers are most needed. Recipients may wish to make use of them for viewings or the funeral service itself while others would rather receive flowers at home to liven their house during a time of sadness.
Funeral flowers should be coordinated with the other blossoms being used at the ceremony while those being sent to a home can be picked on knowledge of the recipient’s personal taste.
Sympathy Flower Customs
A few customs are important to keep in mind as well. For instance, if you plan to send sympathy flowers to the recipient’s home, avoid purchasing sprays or wreaths. These are more typically used in funeral services and viewings and will look out of context in a house. There are no strict social rules to follow when sending sympathy flowers to a house, however. Feel free to exercise your own creativity (and knowledge of the deceased or his or her loved ones) in order to make your arrangement special.
Sympathy notes or cards are customary and, even if they’re short, are sure to be appreciated. Take the time to write out your thoughts and send a message along with your flowers.
