Sympathy Flower Etiquette
What is proper sympathy flower etiquette?
Flowers are a universal gift of sympathy. Many families have a wake, visitation, or viewing for other family members and friends to pay their respects to a lost loved one. If you wish to send flowers for the wake or viewing, it is proper sympathy flower etiquette to send flowers or plants before the first visitation hours. Although the former is preferred, it is still appropriate to send flowers until the last visitation has occurred. If the last visitation is over, send flowers to the family of the deceased. It is inappropriate flower etiquette to try and send last minute flowers to the graveside. This can be disruptive and disrespectful. It is always proper to send flowers to the loved one’s family. Some people even wait until weeks or a month have passed before they send flowers to let the family know that they are still being thought of and remembered.
What kind of arrangements should be sent to a funeral home, mortuary, church, or residence?
A basic bouquet is always a great gift especially if you don’t know the family’s background. A cross-shaped arrangement can be inappropriate depending on the family’s religion. Sprays, wreaths, funeral baskets, green and blooming plants, and specialty arrangements are all appropriate displays that can me sent to a funeral home, mortuary, or church. Green and blooming plants and funeral baskets, as well as vase arrangements, are great gifts that can be sent to the residence of the deceased’s family. These are all perfect ways to express your condolences.