Sympathy vs. Funeral Flowers: Your Questions Answered
Understanding the etiquette of floral tributes can be difficult during times of loss. To help you choose the most respectful gesture, we have answered the most common questions about sending flowers in Perth.
What is the difference between funeral flowers and sympathy flowers?
The main difference lies in the destination and the purpose of the arrangement:
- Funeral flowers are sent directly to the funeral home or service as a tribute to the deceased. They are typically larger, formal arrangements like wreaths or casket sprays.
- Sympathy flowers are sent to the home of the bereaved to offer comfort to the living. These are generally smaller, mid-sized bouquets or arrangements designed for a table or sideboard.
Where should funeral flowers be delivered?
Funeral flowers should be delivered to the funeral home, church, or graveside where the service is being held. At Spearwood Florist, we coordinate with local Perth funeral directors, including Seasons Funerals Cockburn Central, to ensure these large tributes arrive at least 45 minutes before the service begins.
Where should sympathy flowers be delivered?
Sympathy flowers should be delivered directly to the family home of the deceased. Addressing the flowers to a specific family member makes the gesture more personal and ensures they receive your message of support during their private time of mourning.
What are the best colors for funeral flower arrangements?
While choices often depend on cultural customs or faith, somber yet hopeful colors are traditional:
- White and Cream: Symbolize peace, innocence, and reverence.
- Soft Pastels: Offer a sense of gentleness and hope.
- Australian Natives: Rugged natives are increasingly popular in Perth for their longevity and natural beauty.
Are plants a good alternative to sympathy flowers?
Yes, potted plants are an excellent choice for a sympathy gift. Unlike cut flowers, a plant serves as a long-term living memorial of a loved one’s life. They are a practical and lasting way to remind the family that your thoughts remain with them.
How should I sign a sympathy card?
A sympathy card should include a heartfelt message of comfort. Sign your full name so the family knows exactly who the gesture is from. If sending from a group, list each member’s name or the clear group name to help the family keep track of well-wishers.
What types of funeral arrangements are available?
There are several traditional styles of funeral tributes, including:
- Funeral Wreaths: Circular arrangements symbolizing eternal life.
- Casket Sprays: Large arrangements that sit directly on top of the coffin.
- Sympathy Baskets: Versatile arrangements that can be moved from the service to the home.
- Funeral Sheaves: Hand-tied bunches designed to lay flat.
Does Spearwood Florist offer same-day delivery for sympathy flowers?
Yes. We offer same-day delivery to Perth and Fremantle for orders placed before 1:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM on Saturdays. Our delivery team covers all local areas, including Canning Vale, White Gum Valley, Fremantle, and Cockburn Central.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1) Should I send sympathy flowers before or after the funeral?
Either is appropriate. Many people send flowers before the service so the family feels supported straight away. Sending flowers after the funeral can be just as meaningful, especially once the visitors have gone and the home feels quiet.
2) If the family says “no flowers,” what should I do?
Respect the request. You can still show support by sending a thoughtful card, making a donation (if suggested), or choosing a practical gesture like meals or help with errands. If you’re unsure, we can suggest respectful alternatives.
3) What’s a safe “default” choice when I don’t know the family’s preferences?
A soft, neutral palette (whites, creams, gentle greens) is a classic, widely accepted choice. If you’d like something more personal, we can create a custom design based on a favourite colour, hobby, or style.
4) What details should I include for funeral flower delivery?
To avoid delays, include: the full name of the deceased, service venue, service start time, and funeral director/chapel details if you have them. If there’s a ribbon message, add the exact wording and spelling.
5) What should I choose if I’m sending flowers from a group or workplace?
Wreaths, sheaves, and larger arrangements work well for group tributes. We recommend adding the group name clearly (e.g., “From all of us at…”), and we can help with a ribbon layout that looks formal and easy to read.
6) What’s the difference between a wreath, sheaf, and casket spray?
Wreath: A circular tribute, usually displayed on a stand or laid flat.
Sheaf: A hand-tied tribute designed to lay flat.
Casket spray: A large arrangement placed on the coffin (typically ordered by immediate family).
7) Can sympathy flowers be delivered to an apartment or secure building?
Yes. For smooth access, please include the recipient’s mobile number, building name (if applicable), and any access notes. Our drivers deliver discreetly and respectfully.
8) What should I write if I didn’t know the person well?
Keep it simple and sincere. Messages like “Thinking of you,” “With heartfelt sympathy,” or “Holding you in our thoughts” are always appropriate. If you share the relationship (e.g., colleague, neighbour), we can suggest wording that fits.
