When the loved one of a friend or colleague passes away, it is common practice to send funeral flowers to show your sympathy. However, mourning is a sensitive period, and you don't want to make any missteps. If you have never before been in the position of having to support a grieving friend, you may have many questions about the process. Below are answers to some common questions about sending sympathy flowers.

Questions About Sending Funeral Flowers, Answered

How do you select the right flowers?

Traditional funeral flowers include lilies, roses, gladioli, carnations, and mums. These are normally a good choice to express grief, sympathy, and support. If the deceased was well known to favor a particular type of flower, it is likely appropriate to send that species as well. Common arrangements include vase sprays, wreaths, and baskets.

What flowers are inappropriate?

Avoid sending cheerful flowers, as this could be misconstrued. For instance, it's usually best to avoid selecting sunflowers and daisies. Flowers are not traditionally sent for Jewish and Islamic funerals, but they are not inappropriate. 

However, if a family has requested you donate to a charity in lieu of flowers, consider doing so. Do not choose a casket spray, since that is normally selected by immediate family.

What should the message say?

Writing a sympathy card is the best way to express your sorrow at the family's loss. Write your condolences clearly and concisely. You can let the family know that you are also honoring and remembering the departed (if you knew the person). Some people include a short memory of the deceased, while others simply offer their help during the grieving process. 

Where should you send funeral flowers?

Arrangements are usually sent to the funeral home, and they're scheduled to arrive before the service. However, if you learn of the death too late, it's best to send a sympathy arrangement to the family's home. This is still appropriate weeks or months after the loss, or even on the anniversary of the person's death.

To order funeral flowers, contact Laurel Grove Florist & Green Houses, a venerable flower company in Port Jervis, NY. They are family-owned and -operated and have served Orange County since 1912. The team can help you select the perfect bouquet for mourning loved ones, and they can even deliver the arrangement to the funeral home or memorial service site. Learn more about them on their website or call (845) 856-2713 to order funeral flowers.