Choosing flowers that feel right

Traditional funeral flower etiquette says white lilies for sympathy, red roses for love, chrysanthemums for grief. And those are fine if they feel right. But if the person you're honoring loved sunflowers, or gardenias, or wildflowers from the side of the road — that's what should be there.

The best funeral flowers are the ones that make someone say "that's so them."

• Casket spray. A large arrangement that sits on top of the casket. Usually ordered by the immediate family. Can be a full spray (covers the entire lid) or a half spray (covers the closed half during a viewing).
• Standing spray. A tall arrangement displayed on an easel near the casket or at the front of the service. Often sent by close family members or organizations.
• Wreaths. Circular arrangements symbolizing eternal life. Displayed on an easel or hung nearby. A classic choice that works for any type of service.
• Basket arrangements. A full, lush arrangement in a basket. Versatile — works at the service and the family can take it home afterward.
• Bouquets and loose stems. Simpler, more personal. Some families place a single flower on the casket or have guests each carry a stem. Beautiful for celebrations of life.
• Plants. A living plant instead of cut flowers. The family can keep it and watch it grow — a quiet, lasting reminder. Peace lilies, orchids, and succulents are popular choices.

If symbolism matters to you or the family, here's a quick guide:

• Lilies: Purity, the restored innocence of the soul. The most traditional funeral flower.
• Roses: Love (red), grace (pink), reverence (white), friendship (yellow). Roses are always appropriate.
• Carnations:Love and admiration. Red carnations mean "my heart aches for you." White carnations are a symbol of pure love.
• Chrysanthemums: In many cultures, specifically associated with death and mourning. In the U.S., they represent loyalty and honor.
• Orchids: Elegance, love, beauty. A modern, sophisticated choice.
• Sunflowers: Warmth, adoration, loyalty. Perfect for someone who brought light into a room.
• Hydrangeas: Gratitude, heartfelt emotion. Beautiful in large arrangements.
• Forget-me-nots: Exactly what the name says.

If you're not immediate family but want to send something, here are some guidelines:

• Check with the family first. Some families request donations to a charity instead of flowers. The obituary usually mentions this.
• A basket arrangement or plant is always safe and thoughtful. The family can take it home.
• Avoid anything too largeunless you're very close to the family. You don't want your arrangement to overshadow the family's.
• Include a card.Even a short note — "Thinking of you" or a specific memory — means more than the flowers themselves.
• Timing: For a funeral or viewing, flowers should arrive at the venue before the service. For a celebration of life, check with the family about the venue and timing.

Florida's climate means some flowers don't hold up well outdoors, especially in summer. If the service or burial includes an outdoor component:

• Tropical flowers (orchids, birds of paradise, plumeria) handle the heat better than roses or lilies.
• Ask your florist about heat-resistant options and timing — flowers delivered too early in Florida heat will wilt quickly.
• For graveside services, consider potted plants that can be planted near the grave afterward.

When you build your plan with us, you can include flower preferences — types, colors, budget, and style. When you're ready to connect with providers, we'll match you with local florists who understand funeral arrangements and can work within your vision and budget.