How to Properly Send Sympathy Flowers: Etiquette Tips - Everyday Flowers and Balloons (2024)

FAQs

How to Properly Send Sympathy Flowers: Etiquette Tips - Everyday Flowers and Balloons? ›

Sympathy flowers always go to the home of the deceased person's family. If you're sending sympathy flowers to the family of the decedent, think about arrangements that are suitable for accent tables, mantlepieces, or to use as centerpieces.

Sympathy flowers always go to the home of the deceased person's family. If you're sending sympathy flowers to the family of the decedent, think about arrangements that are suitable for accent tables, mantlepieces, or to use as centerpieces.

It's a good idea to wait 3-4 days or even a week or more to send floral bouquets. Your gesture can be a very comforting reminder during the grieving process. It shows that a community is there for support and that the family is not forgotten as they process the loss they still feel, well after the service.

White or light yellow flowers are usually the best choices for sympathy flowers. You certainly will want to avoid bright colored flowers in most instances. Bright colored flowers, however, are almost always appropriate for happy occasions or milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, congratulations, or thank yous.

In terms of the type of flowers to send, it's best to choose something simple and elegant. White lilies, roses, or orchids are classic choices that symbolise purity and peace. Avoid overly bright or vibrant flowers, as these may not convey the right sentiment. Consider also the recipient's culture or religious beliefs.

Traditionally, white is the colour of choice for most funeral and condolence flowers. In the language of flowers, white flowers represent peace, innocence and purity. This makes them a perfect fit for funerals, as well as weddings and baby showers.

Friends, coworkers, and relatives may choose to send flowers. Virtually any type of flower or plant is suitable and can be chosen to reflect the personality of the deceased.

The lily is the flower most commonly associated with bereavement, specifically when it's white in color. White lilies symbolize innocence, the rebirth of the soul, and purity. Additionally, the Oriental lily signifies sympathy, and the stargazer lily symbolizes eternal life.

Is it ever too late to express your sympathy to someone who has suffered a loss? If you're trying to follow proper etiquette, it's best to send a note, gift or flowers within two weeks of the funeral. However, you can do it later, as long as you feel it would be helpful rather than painful.

You can order either type as soon as you hear of the death. However, funeral flowers should arrive in time for – and ideally on the day of – the funeral service. On the other hand, you may choose to send sympathy flowers days or even weeks after the service has taken place.

Is it rude not to send flowers to a funeral? ›

As we've already noted, older generations might be surprised to find how many funerals are requesting donations—and how few people send flowers these days. It's not rude or inconsiderate. In fact, if the grieving parties are requesting donations, it's actually better etiquette to send the requested form of donation.

Though not mandatory, flower deliveries may warrant a $5 to $10 tip for average-sized bouquets, plants, and arrangements. If they're bringing multiple arrangements, large plants, or other difficult-to-carry items, the tip should be around $10 to $20 depending on the total cost of the order.

The flower girl will walk down the aisle, after the bridesmaids but before the bride, holding a basket of rose or other flower petals, which they'll scatter on the floor. They will then either stand with the rest of the bridal party, or rejoin their parents to sit and watch the rest of the ceremony.

White flowers are commonly used in sympathy bouquets. Peace lilies, white carnations, white roses, and white daisies are often displayed in these bouquets. These flowers symbolize peace and serenity.

Sympathy flowers are addressed and sent directly to a loved one of the deceased. They are usually smaller floral arrangements that decorate end tables or can be used as a centerpiece in the family home. Funeral flowers serve as a tribute to the deceased at the funeral service.

Short condolence messages

“May you be comforted by the outpouring of love surrounding you.” “We hope you know we are by your side during this time of sorrow.” “Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead.” “Wishing you peace and comfort in these difficult days.”

While proper etiquette dictates that sympathy cards are ideally sent within two weeks after a death, it is never too late to send someone a sympathy card or note to express your heartfelt feelings of condolence for their loss. There can be many reasons for sending condolence cards late.

You don't have to send a gift along with the card, but you certainly can. Many people send flowers, but it's also really easy to put money on the card. When you send the money, let the family know you want them to honor their loved one in whatever way they see fit.

When someone you care about experiences a loss it is important to stay in touch with them. Sending a sympathy card is a great and important way of showing your support but that individual or family will need you beyond the services.

While it is always recommended that a floral arrangement, gift basket or mass card is acknowledged with a thank you card it is considered optional to send one when receiving sympathy cards. Sometimes, the sheer volume of cards received makes it challenging.