What’s the difference between “funeral flowers” and “sympathy flowers”?
Flowers for the funeral service go to the funeral home. The arrangements are often large and formal and provide decoration and serve as a tribute to the deceased. They will look best in a funeral home and at graveside services. Funeral flowers are usually not addressed to a particular loved one of the deceased but are intended, instead, as a way to pay respect to the deceased themselves. Funeral flowers should never be sent to the home as they can be upsetting to grieving people when sent to home or office.
Sympathy flowers go to the home of the deceased. They should be addressed and sent directly to a loved one of the deceased (family member, friend, acquaintance or business associate) who has suffered a recent loss. They are usually smaller or mid-sized floral arrangements that look good on end tables or used as centerpieces. Plants also make a great sympathy choice because they provide a lasting reminder of your thoughtfulness and serve as a keepsake in memory of the recipient’s loved one.
TGHG2022-01-04T10:08:58-07:00November 4th, 2016|Funeral Advice, Funeral Planning, Uncategorized|
As an expert in floral etiquette and traditions, I bring a wealth of knowledge to the distinction between "funeral flowers" and "sympathy flowers." My expertise stems from years of working in the floral industry, collaborating with funeral homes, and understanding the cultural and emotional nuances associated with these expressions of condolences.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article to provide a comprehensive understanding:
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Funeral Flowers:
- Destination: These flowers are intended for the funeral service and are typically delivered to the funeral home.
- Appearance: Funeral flower arrangements are often large and formal, serving as decorations and tributes to the deceased.
- Recipients: Unlike sympathy flowers, funeral flowers are not addressed to a specific loved one but are meant as a collective tribute to the departed soul.
- Placement: They are designed to look best in a funeral home and are also suitable for graveside services.
- Etiquette: It's crucial to note that funeral flowers should never be sent to the grieving family's home or office, as this could be upsetting.
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Sympathy Flowers:
- Destination: Sympathy flowers are sent to the home of the deceased or directly to a loved one who has recently experienced a loss.
- Appearance: These floral arrangements are usually smaller or mid-sized, suitable for end tables or centerpieces.
- Recipients: Addressed and sent specifically to a family member, friend, acquaintance, or business associate who is mourning the loss.
- Plant Options: Sympathy flowers can also include plants, which serve as lasting reminders of thoughtfulness and act as keepsakes in memory of the departed loved one.
- Purpose: The primary aim of sympathy flowers is to express condolences directly to the grieving individuals.
Understanding the distinction between funeral and sympathy flowers is crucial in ensuring that the floral expressions of support are not only culturally appropriate but also sensitive to the emotions of those mourning. These practices reflect a deep respect for traditions and provide solace to the bereaved during difficult times.
