Five Things to Think About When Choosing Funeral Flowers

Choosing funeral flowers can feel overwhelming, especially at such an emotional time. This guide shares five key things to consider, from the meaning of flowers and styles of tributes to adding personal touches and practical details. It also explores how flowers can comfort family and friends, with a focus on creating meaningful, sustainable designs that honour a life while being kind to the environment. (September 2025 - 2 minute read)

As a florist, it is understood how difficult it can feel to make decisions around funeral flowers. During such an emotional time, the choices can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to want every detail to be just right. Flowers can bring comfort, express deep emotions that words cannot, and create a meaningful tribute.

Here are five things often shared with families when helping them choose.

1. The Meaning Behind the Flowers

Many flowers have traditional meanings that can add depth to your tribute. Lilies are often chosen for their association with peace and purity, while roses can express love, respect, and remembrance. Carnations and roses are also popular, each with their own symbolism. You don’t have to know these meanings in advance - guidance is available as this can be gently explained - but often, a particular flower feels right when its meaning is known.

2. Choosing the Style of Tribute

There are many different types of funeral arrangements, and the choice often depends on where the flowers will be placed. Coffin sprays and wreaths are more formal tributes for the service itself, while smaller sprays and tied bouquets are often sent by friends or colleagues. It can help to think not only about what feels appropriate for the occasion, but also about what reflects the personality of the person being remembered.

3. Adding Personal Touches

One of the most meaningful things you can do is to include personal details in the flowers. This could be a favourite flower, a much-loved colour, or even something seasonal that reflects their personality. Tributes have been created for loved ones using seasonal blooms from their gardens, and vibrant arrangements of gerberas and sunflowers for people remembered for their energy and laughter. These thoughtful touches make flowers feel like a heartfelt reflection of someone’s life.

Practical Things to Keep in Mind

It’s worth knowing that some venues have guidelines around the size or types of arrangements. Advice is always provided on what’s suitable. Seasonal availability is another factor, choosing flowers that are in season not only ensures they look their best, but often feels more natural and fitting.

It’s also important to consider:

· Delivery - Flowers are usually taken to the funeral director or directly to the service venue. We arrange these details so that your tribute arrives fresh and on time.

· Size and Transport - Large tributes, such as coffin sprays, are designed to stay with the coffin, while smaller arrangements may be taken home afterwards.

· Longevity - If flowers will be placed outside, guidance is available towards hardy blooms that last well in different weather conditions.

· Message Cards - Even a few simple words can mean so much. Support is available with wording ideas if needed, these can be sent to us via email if finding the words out aloud is difficult.

· Budget - Tributes don’t need to be elaborate to be meaningful. A thoughtful, smaller arrangement can be just as moving as a large display.

5. Supporting the Family

Funeral flowers aren’t only about honouring the person who has passed; they also bring comfort to family and friends. Many people choose to send flowers to the family home either before or after the service, as a way of showing care at a very difficult time. This small but powerful gesture can offer comfort and remind the family they’re not alone in their grief.

In Closing

When it comes to funeral flowers, there’s no right or wrong choice. Support is offered to guide you gently through the options, so feelings of being overwhelmed are lessened, creating something deeply personal and meaningful. Above all, your flowers should both celebrate a life and bring comfort to those left behind.

As part of this work, there is also a special interest in sustainable funeral designs. This means using seasonal flowers wherever possible, avoiding floral foam and creating arrangements that can return to the earth naturally. For many families, knowing the tribute is environmentally kind can bring an added layer of peace and comfort.

For anyone wishing to talk through ideas for funeral flowers, support is available. Please get in touch to create a thoughtful and sensitive tribute that reflects the life of your loved one beautifully.