Sympathy flowers: a gentle guide to what to send and where
Thursday, August 27
When someone you care about loses a person they love, sending flowers is a way of being present when you can’t be there. Here’s how to make sure they arrive at the right place and time.
The service or the home?
Flowers for the visitation or service are usually standing sprays, wreaths or larger arrangements, and are often sent by extended family, colleagues or groups. Flowers sent to the family’s home are more personal and tend to be smaller arrangements or plants that last beyond the week.
Timing for a service
Tell us the funeral home or church and the start time of the visitation or service. We deliver at least two hours before so staff can place the arrangement. We deliver seven days a week, so a Sunday service is no problem.
What to write on the card
Keep it simple and sincere. A short line such as “With deepest sympathy and fond memories of Robert” is enough. Sign with your full name so the family knows who sent it.
- All-white and green arrangements are a classic, quiet choice.
- A living plant gives the family something to care for afterward.
- If an obituary asks for donations in lieu of flowers, a small arrangement to the home is still a kind gesture.