For people who are not familiar with the customs and traditions regarding funeral flowers, these fragrant blossoms that normally surround the casket of the deceased are often considered simple adornments. While that is an undeniable fact due to the lovely combinations of colors and blossoms, funeral flowers are more than just decorations, they strive to fill a grieving home with life and hope through beauty, aroma, and charm. This is precisely why funeral flowers ideas are so important in our lives.
The practice of sending and receiving such sweet smelling flowers during the grieving period of a loved one’s death can be traced back through thousands of years of history. While the original rationale for such practice was to mask any unpleasant odors associated with death (since chemicals such as formalin were not yet used), traditional funeral flowers have since been developed into various types and arrangements, each of which are incorporated with a specific intent. The six most common types of funeral flower arrangements are:
- Inside Pieces – As the name implies, this type of funeral flower arrangement goes on the interior part of the casket. It is intended to surround the deceased. According to tradition, inside pieces are usually brought to the funeral home by the children, grandchildren or young relatives of the person who has passed away.
- Floral Baskets – Tradition tells that anyone can send this type of flower arrangement to the funeral parlor or church—or the home of a bereaved. Floral baskets are available in different sizes and shapes which are placed on the ground surrounding the casket. Others are positioned on top of tables.
- Casket Sprays – Also called a Casket Cover, casket sprays are the beautifully arranged flowers on top of a casket. In most cultures, this funeral flower arrangement is to be bought by family members alone. Casket Covers come in full or half sizes. For close casket wakes, full length casket covers are used.
- Vase and Table Arrangements – Comparable to Floral Baskets, a Vase and Table Arrangement can be given by anyone to the family of the deceased. In appearance, this type of funeral flower arrangement is smaller in size than Baskets, and is often designed in accordance to the deceased’s personality.
- Standing Sprays – Also known as Easels, Standing Sprays are the often the most noticeable because of their size (varying from 1 to 3 feet) and their shape (cross, heart, triangle, etc.). Standing Sprays are sent as an acknowledgement for the services imparted by the deceased. Additionally, they are given by people who have been acquainted to the person who died.
- Wreaths – A symbol of eternal life, wreaths have circular shapes– less adorned when compared but are similar to Christmas wreaths. This type of funeral arrangement is placed on doors of funeral homes and brought to the place of burial. Anyone who is familiar with the deceased can send this type of funeral flower arrangement to the bereaved family.
Many, if not all, of these funeral flower arrangements are available for purchase online. Taking into consideration the history, tradition and limitations that are involved in each type of arrangement, anyone who wishes to send funeral flowers could choose from the six mentioned above, and probably have them delivered same-day if necessary. Check out our Funeral Flowers by City articles in the left hand navigation column to find respectable and tasteful florists near you.
