Funeral Flowers
The use of flowers at funerals is a very old practice. Some suggest that even Neanderthals were found with a layer of pollen over their bodies, indicating that they were probably laid to rest under a layer of flowers.
It is believed that the original purpose of funeral flowers was a practical one: to mask the smell of the body. Since then, however, embalming practices have improved to the point that the bodies of the deceased typically do not smell. Therefore, funeral flowers are now meant as a show of respect to both the deceased and his or her family.
There are many types of bouquets and other arrangements that can be used as funeral flowers. Some of these have extra meanings beyond simply expressing sympathy and respect. The flowers used, colors chosen, and overall shape of the flower arrangement can all impart meanings. Here are some of the most popular flowers and arrangement types used for funerals, and their meanings.
* Lilies are common funeral flowers. Often, the lilies used for this purpose are white. The white stands for purity, while the lily itself is a symbol of innocence restored by death.
* Carnations are another popular choice for funeral arrangements. While it may not seem appropriate to discuss price when talking about a funeral, it must be noted that carnations are one of the most affordable flowers, and this surely contributes to their popularity. In terms of meaning, the meanings of carnations come from their colors. Red means admiration, while white means purity and innocence. Pink stands for remembrance.
* Mums, or chrysanthemums, are often part of funeral arrangements. The meanings of color change depending on the culture. In the United States, for instance, white mums stand for truth. In Japan and some European countries, on the other hand, they mean lamentation and death.
* Gladioli sprays go well with funerals done in a traditional style. In the case of the gladiolus, the flower itself imparts the meaning: they stand for integrity and strength of moral and personal character.
* Roses are used for every possible occasion, and funerals are no exception. These showy flowers gain their meaning from their colors. Red is for respect and courage, as well as love. White means humility, innocence, and respect, among other things. Pink roses send a message of grace and love.
* Circular wreaths, no matter what flowers they are composed of, stand for the circle of life.
* Religious symbols impart the meanings prescribed by the religions they come from. Christian crosses are especially popular for making into a funeral arrangement shape. For believers, these call to mind the comforting aspects of the religion.
In the case of arrangements based on religious symbols, it is wise to check with the family before sending the arrangement if their religion isn't already known to the sender. If the family is not of the same religion, such arrangements can be seen as an unwanted imposition of someone else's beliefs. If they are followers of the same religion, on the other hand, these arrangements can be very comforting.
Of course, there are many other types of arrangements besides bouquets. Baskets are incredibly popular, both with flowers and with living plants. The meaning of these comes from the particular flowers or plants in them, and their colors. Living plants can be a great way to keep someone's memory alive, sometimes for years, but only if the living recipient is able to keep them growing. Therefore, it is better to send cut flowers unless you know there's a green thumb in the family.
The type of flowers that are best to buy for a funeral depends on what message you're trying to send. For general condolences, a midpriced arrangement in neutral colors is a good bet. If you want to add meaning to the arrangement, choosing based on color or flower type is an easy way to do it.
When the deceased is someone you knew well, you can send a far deeper message than a general arrangement of funeral flowers can convey. You can then tailor the arrangement to match the tastes or habits of the deceased. For instance, if she liked a particular kind of flower, sending a bouquet of that variety will be very touching, even if they are not traditionally used as funeral flowers. The same goes for flower colors.
Despite their practical origins, flowers are very comforting to most grieving families. Sending a funeral flower arrangement is a well-received way of showing sympathy and respect, and with all the options available, there is sure to be one which matches the circumstances surrounding any funeral.