Funeral flowers etiquette: Is buying flowers for a funeral appropriate? Discover where to buy funeral flowers.

Is buying flowers for a funeral appropriate? 

Funeral flowers serve as a symbol of sympathy, support, and remembrance, providing comfort to grieving families during one of life's most sad and difficult times. They convey your heartfelt condolences and help create a peaceful atmosphere at the service. While it's generally considered a kind gesture to send funeral flowers, it's also essential to be mindful of the family's preferences and cultural traditions, as some may prefer donations to a charity or other forms of support instead. Ultimately, the thought behind the gesture is the most important and your intention to offer love and solace is what truly counts.

Where to find thoughtful funeral flowers in Australia

Losing a loved one is a deeply emotional and challenging experience. In times like these, expressing your sympathy and condolences can provide comfort to families who have lost a loved one and one heartfelt way to do so is sending funeral flowers.  

In our article we hope to help you navigate the process of finding the perfect funeral flowers whilst offering suggestions and insights to make this emotional time a little bit easier for you.

Understanding funeral flower etiquette: 

Before we delve into where to buy funeral flowers, let's briefly outline funeral flower etiquette in Australia:

Traditional choices

White lilies, roses and carnations are commonly chosen due to their timeless elegance and symbolism of purity and love.

Personal touch 

Consider the preferences and cultural background of the deceased and their family when selecting flowers. Some cultures have specific customs and beliefs related to funeral flowers.

Card messages 

Attach a thoughtful sympathy card with a heartfelt message to convey your condolences.

Where to buy funeral flowers: 

There are several options to consider when searching for the right place to purchase funeral flowers:

Local florists

Local florists are the likely choice for many people when it comes to selecting funeral flowers. They offer a personal touch and the ability to create custom arrangements tailored to your specific requirements. Visit or contact a local florist in your area to discuss your needs and preferences.

RELATED ARTICLE: Messages of sympathy to accompany funeral flowers

Online flower delivery services 

Online flower delivery services have become a convenient way to order funeral flowers. They offer a wide selection of arrangements and the option to have the flowers delivered directly to the funeral home or the recipient's address. Look for reputable online florists with positive customer reviews to ensure a smooth and reliable experience.

Funeral homes 

Funeral homes often have arrangements with local florists or provide their own funeral flower services. They can assist you in selecting appropriate arrangements and handle the delivery to the funeral service or the family's home. Be sure to inquire about this option when making funeral arrangements.

Supermarkets and convenience stores

Some supermarkets and convenience stores also offer pre-made floral arrangements suitable for funerals. While these options may be more budget-friendly, they may have limited choices compared to florists or online services.

DIY funeral flowers 

If you have a green thumb or want to add a personal touch, consider creating your own funeral flower arrangements. Visit a local flower market or garden centre to select the flowers and create a meaningful tribute yourself. This can be a therapeutic and heartfelt way to express your condolences.

Considerations when choosing funeral flowers: 

As you decide where to buy funeral flowers, keep these considerations in mind to select the most appropriate arrangements:

Flower types 

Choose flowers that are known for their elegant and calming qualities. White lilies, orchids and roses are popular choices, but you can also opt for other soft and subdued colours that convey sympathy and respect.

Arrangement style 

Select an arrangement style that reflects the personality and preferences of the deceased or the bereaved family. Wreaths, sprays, bouquets, and casket sprays are some common options.

Delivery details

Ensure that you provide accurate delivery information if you're having the flowers sent to a specific location. If the flowers are for a funeral service, coordinate the delivery time with the funeral home or the family to avoid any complications.

Personal messages 

Include a thoughtful and heartfelt message with your funeral flowers to convey your condolences and support. A few words of comfort can mean a lot during this difficult time.  

RELATED ARTICLE: Traditional funeral and sympathy flowers

Additional tips for sending funeral flowers: 

To ensure your gesture is as meaningful as possible, here are some additional tips to consider:

Timeless 

Send your funeral flowers promptly. Typically, it's best to have them arrive before the funeral or memorial service to provide solace and beauty during the event.

Include the deceased's name

When ordering funeral flowers, include the deceased's name to avoid any confusion in delivery. Mention any specific details, such as the funeral date, time and location, to help the florist or delivery service ensure a smooth delivery.

Respect cultural and religious preferences

Respect the cultural and religious preferences of the bereaved family when selecting funeral flowers. Some religions have specific guidelines for appropriate flower choices and arrangements.

RELATED ARTICLE: Your guide to understanding funeral terms

Supportive gestures 

In addition to funeral flowers, consider other supportive gestures like offering assistance with meals, transportation, or simply being there to lend an empathetic ear. These gestures can provide comfort and help ease the burden on the grieving family.

Follow up 

After sending funeral flowers, consider following up with a sympathy card or a phone call to offer your continued support. Grief doesn't fade quickly and your ongoing presence can be a source of comfort for those mourning their loss.  

Selecting funeral flowers is a gesture of compassion and support during a time of loss. Whether you choose to buy from a local florist, an online service, or create your own arrangement, your thoughtful gesture will provide comfort and solace to the grieving family. Remember that it's the sentiment behind the flowers that truly matters, and your act of kindness will be deeply appreciated during their time of need.