How to Buy Funeral Flowers

A gift of fresh flowers can express emotions that cannot be put in words, especially when someone you know has lost a relative, friend or someone else close to him or her. Because a funeral service is the way we honor someone's life, bright and colorful flowers are often an important part of this tribute. In addition to adding beauty, they provide a diversion, warmth, and something to look at and talk about during an otherwise somber occasion.

The custom of giving flowers for sympathy hasn't changed much over the years, but there are a few things to know when sending flowers or plants to a funeral home or residence after the death of a loved one. To help you when ordering flowers from a florist, here are the correct terms for different types of sympathy arrangements and how they are often used.

Casket Spray: Usually ordered by the immediate family and covers the top of the casket. A full-length spray will cover the entire casket top and is appropriate for a closed casket service. A half-length spray covers the bottom half of the casket and is moved to the middle after the casket is closed. A flag draped casket will not require a casket spray.

Boutonnières for Pallbearers: Customarily provided at no cost by the florist that designs the casket spray.

Inside or Lid Arrangements: A small arrangement or corsage placed inside the casket or attached to the inside of the lid that represents the children or grandchildren of the deceased.

Wreath: Often used because a circle represents eternal life and unending love and are displayed on the wall, door or on an easel. Purchased by friends or family members. Simple or elaborate and can be from 12" to 36" across.

Spray: Flower arrangements designed to be viewed from one side and usually placed on an easel. They can be in the shape of a cross or customized according to the personality of the deceased. Easel sizes can be 24" to 60" tall. Purchased by anyone. Brought to the gravesite after the service, a spray on an easel is rarely sent to a home or business.

Head Piece or End Piece: These sprays are often designed to coordinate with the casket spray and are usually purchased by family members. They are placed on either end of the casket. A banner with the pet name of the deceased such as "Aunt Jane" or "Pop" can be added to these pieces.

Traditional Arrangements: Traditional sympathy arrangements are designed in a fanned or triangular shape. Built in a basket or vase, they can be elaborate. They are purchased by anyone, and designed to carry to the gravesite or home after the service. Basket arrangements are much easier to transport than a large vase and are more stable.

Green Or Blooming Plants: Purchased by anyone, they can add a lush texture to the service. Often indoor plants, they last longer than floral arrangements and can be given to different family members or friends after the service. Outdoor plants such as trees can be purchased and delivered to the home. Blooming florist mums are a poor choice for a lasting sympathy tribute. Although cheap and colorful, they don't last longer than a few days.

In instances where there is a cremation or no service, sending flowers or plants to the bereaved persons home is appropriate. During a memorial service, tastefully designed flower arrangements can be placed around the focal point, whether it is a board of pictures, mementos, or an urn. A small gift of flowers sent to the bereaved on the anniversary of the death with a card enclosed that simply says you are thinking of him or her on that day is appropriate.