Menu

Floral Arrangements and Funerals: The Hidden Meanings of Flower Types


About Me

Floral Arrangements and Funerals: The Hidden Meanings of Flower Types

For my mother's funeral, my sister and I spent a lot of time thinking about flowers for her funeral. We wanted beautiful, colorful flowers that reflected upon her energetic spirit and her love of bright, bold color. However, when we began to plan out her funeral with the funeral director, we were surprised to learn that different types of flowers had different meanings. Based on their meanings, some were appropriate for a funeral, and others were not. We had no idea about this, but I instantly became fascinated with the topic. I created this website to help educate others about the meanings of flowers and which are appropriate for funerals.

Creative Alternatives To Flowers For Cremation Services

Cremation services are like funerals and memorial services in many ways. You also have a lot more freedom with them, though. They can be performed right after a loved one has passed away or months or even years after someone's passing. Whatever you decide to do regarding the cremation services for your loved one, flowers may not be the best way to honor the deceased person. If you don't want people to bring or send flowers to a loved one's cremation services, consider requesting these creative alternatives.

Gift to Honor the Loved One's Collection

If the deceased person had a collection that they loved building, you may request that mourners bring along something to go with that collection that your loved one would have enjoyed. For example, if someone enjoyed collecting trading cards, you may request others to put with the existing collection. If the person loved clocks, having everyone bring along a unique clock may be a fun way to add a bit of their passion and personality to the service.

Funding a Project

If your lost loved one was passionate about volunteering for a particular charity project, you may request that mourners make a donation to the completion of a specific project. This will likely feel more personal to those who attend the cremation services than merely asking for donations to charity. When you try to get a specific project funded, you are able to report on the results to those who gave, and you may even be able to name the project after the deceased. It can be healing for those who are grieving to know that good works continue to be done in memory of the one they've lost.

Glee Gift

If the deceased person did not leave behind great debts or a family who is in need, one of the best ways to remember their life may be to ask mourners to do something that makes them happy in honor of the lost loved one. Whether it's dancing or giving hugs or volunteering, ask each person who attends the cremation service to do something that makes them happy, then write a one-paragraph note about what they did to read at the services. Then everyone can read their stories at the service, revealing a tapestry of joy that has been created in memory of the one who has passed away.

Finally, keep in mind that the people who are closest to a deceased person should ultimately make the call regarding whether flowers are appropriate for the cremation service. If you don't want them at your loved one's service, you are not obligated to have them. Simply spread the word about your preferred alternative to flowers in social media posts, obituaries, and notices on your loved one's death.

For more ideas and information, it may be a good idea to talk with a funeral home, such as McComb & Wagner Crematory.