Choosing funeral flowers: a plain guide to tributes

Choosing flowers for a funeral is something most people only do a handful of times, usually when they least feel like making decisions. You do not need to know any of the words florists use. This guide explains the common tributes in plain terms, so that you can tell us what you would like, or simply tell us about the person and let us suggest something.

Who usually sends what

There are no rules, but there are customs. The closest family, often a husband, wife or children, usually choose the flowers that go on top of the coffin. Other family members and friends send smaller tributes, which go with the coffin or are laid beside it. People who knew the family rather than the person often send flowers to the home instead, or a little later.

The main kinds of tribute

Coffin spray

A long arrangement that lies along the top of the coffin. A single-ended spray runs one way from a central point; a double-ended spray runs both ways and covers more of the lid. It is usually from the closest family.

Wreath

A ring of flowers and foliage. It is one of the oldest tributes, and the circle stands for a life that goes on. Wreaths can be packed full of flowers or made open, with greenery and a single spray of flowers on one side.

Sheaf

Flowers tied together, like a bouquet laid flat. It is simple and traditional, and afterwards the flowers can be put in water or left at the grave.

Posy

A small round arrangement, often from grandchildren, a friend or a group of colleagues. Posies are also popular for taking to the grave later on.

Letters and names

Words such as MUM, DAD, NAN or GRANDAD, or the person’s name, spelt out in flowers. They take longer to make than other tributes, so give us as much notice as you can.

Hearts, cushions and other shapes

Solid shapes covered in flowers. A heart is often chosen by a partner or by children. We can make other shapes too, so if something meant a lot to the person, ask us.

Choosing colours and flowers

White and soft colours are traditional, but many families now choose the person’s favourite colours, or flowers from their garden. Bright sunflowers for someone who was always cheerful, or deep red roses for a lifelong love, can say more than a white lily ever could.

What we need from you

• The date and time of the funeral.
• Where the flowers should go: the funeral director, the church or chapel, or the crematorium.
• The name of the person who has died, and the words for your card, spelt exactly as you want them.

Talk to us

You can fill in the form on our funeral flowers page, but many people prefer to talk. Ring the shop and we will go through it with you gently, at your pace.