Funeral Floral Etiquette

Flowers may be sent to either the house or the church. Flowers can be carried to the burial place if the family so desires. White flowers like lilies, carnations and chrysanthemums are some of the most popular and traditional funeral flowers for faith-based, religious services. The lily represents the spirit of a deceased loved one and it is said that lilies offer hope. Any flowers which are fragrant and long-lasting flowers are ideal. According to the language of flowers, white carnations mean “Innocence” and “Purity.” While white is the most purchased color in the United States, other colors can hold special significance. For example, pink carnations translate to thoughts of remembrance. A favorite color of the deceased loved one can also be a good choice, especially if the loved one being mourned lived a long, full life. Mums, or Chrysanthemums, symbols for grief, are good choices when the family in mourning is Japanese, Korean or Chinese.

Question: To whom does one address flowers sent to a funeral?

Answer: Either to the head of the family or to the person who may be considered the chief mourner. If there are several sisters or brothers, the flowers may be sent to the one whom one knows best. Flowers may be sent to either the house or the church.

Question: Should all flowers be carried to the burial place?

Answer: Only if the family so desires.

–Imperial Valley Press, May 1931

 

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