Sympathy Flower Etiquette: How to Express Sympathy with Flowers

Death and the loss of loved ones are realities that everyone in the world must eventually accept. However, we often don't know what to say or do to comfort those who are grieving, which is why many people have long preferred to use  fresh flowers to express sympathy, compassion, and remembrance. Flowers bring comfort and elegance to solemn, quiet occasions and often convey what we cannot express in words. Flowers themselves are a beautiful symbol of life's fleeting nature. Sending flowers during times of grief is a gesture of respect, and Hong Kong florist Give Gift Boutique (Hong Kong's leading online florist) has compiled everything you need to know about funeral and sympathy flower sending. Let's take a look! Whether it's sympathy bouquets, funeral wreaths, or memorial sprays, Give Gift Boutique offers dignified and appropriate designs. Let's take a look!.Shangli Fang

White eustomas, hyacinths, and eucalyptus in decorative flower vase.

What Flower-Types and Colours to use for Sympathy Flowers?

Traditionally, Lilies, roses, carnations, orchids, chrysanthemums, and gladiolus are popular flower choices for making funeral bouquets, as the language of these flowers carries traditional symbolic meanings associated with sympathy and sincerity. In terms of color, funeral and memorial flower arrangements can range from white, yellow, pink, light blue, or light purple, but must be limited to this spectrum as <a href="/en/flowers/funeral"> should maintain a classical and solemn tone.

Related: Language & Meaning of Flowers

White lilies and orchids with cream roses and matching greens in a decorative vase.

The Difference between Sympathy Flowers and Funeral Flowers

Related: Memorial and Commemorative Funeral Flowers

Sympathy Flower Messages

How do you write a message for a funeral basket? Keep it short and sincere, as flowers can express and convey all the feelings that are difficult to put into words. At the same time, be sure to avoid clichés or any messages that might minimize someone's emotions. Need some suggestions? Read Hong Kong florist Give Gift Boutique's blog post: Flower Card Messages. All Give Gift Boutique funeral flower gifts include a complimentary message card, with professional florists writing the condolence message to ensure the words are dignified and appropriate. Need some suggestions?

Orchids, lilies, and hyacinth in a decorative vase.

Consider the Religious Background of the Bereaved

While sending flowers to express sympathy is generally safe, there are some situations where it may not be appropriate. For example, if the deceased is Jewish, it is customary for friends and colleagues to visit the family home and pay their respects for seven days before the family during Shiva. In this case, flowers are not appropriate; instead, desserts and fruit baskets are traditional gifts for visiting or sending to the home. In Buddhism, and sometimes even in Islam, offering sympathy flowers may not be appropriate. If you are unsure whether you should send flowers, consult with friends or family to ensure proper funeral and condolence etiquette. If you have questions about funeral flower etiquette, please contact the Give Gift Boutique customer service team. We are familiar with funeral customs across various religions and can provide you with appropriate advice. Browse our proper funeral and condolence etiquette..

When to Send Sympathy Flowers?

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

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