Flowers
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Flowers are a traditional way of expressing love, respect and remembrance. They can provide comfort to families and add a personal touch to the funeral service.
There is no right or wrong choice. Some families choose elaborate floral tributes, while others prefer a single bouquet or ask for family flowers only.
Who Buys the Flowers?
There are many different options, including:
- Flowers from the immediate family.
- Individual tributes from relatives and friends.
- Flowers from work colleagues or organisations.
- Donations to a chosen charity instead of flowers.
- No flowers, if that was the wish of the person who died or their family.
Types of Floral Tributes
Florists can create many different styles of tribute, including:
- Coffin sprays.
- Posies.
- Wreaths.
- Hearts.
- Crosses.
- Cushions.
- Pillows.
- Letter tributes (such as "MUM", "DAD", "NAN" or a name).
- Bespoke designs reflecting hobbies, interests or occupations.
Choosing Flowers
Many families choose flowers that:
- Were a favourite of their loved one.
- Reflect a favourite colour.
- Match the season.
- Have a special meaning.
- Complement the overall style of the funeral.
Your florist or funeral director can help you choose suitable arrangements.
Where Are the Flowers Placed?
Flowers may be placed:
- On top of the coffin.
- Around the coffin during the service.
- At the graveside.
- Beside the crematorium catafalque.
- At a memorial service or wake.
What Happens to the Flowers Afterwards?
After the funeral, families may choose to:
- Leave the flowers on the grave.
- Take them home.
- Leave them at the crematorium if permitted.
- Share arrangements with family members.
- Donate suitable flowers to hospitals, care homes or hospices (where accepted).
Ordering Flowers
It is best to order funeral flowers as early as possible to give your florist enough time to prepare them. If you have a specific design, favourite flowers or colours in mind, discuss this with the florist when placing your order.
Things to Consider Before ordering flowers, think about:
- Did your loved one have a favourite flower or colour?
- Would they have preferred family flowers only?
- Would they have preferred donations to charity?
- Is there a particular design that reflects their personality or interests?
What does "Family flowers only" mean?
This means the immediate family have chosen to provide the floral tributes themselves. Friends and extended family are often invited to make a charitable donation instead, although this is entirely the family's choice.
Eco-friendly funerals If you're planning an environmentally friendly funeral, your florist can advise on biodegradable arrangements and alternatives to floral foam.