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Our Guide to Funeral and Sympathy Flowers
![](https://www.realflowers.co.uk/wp/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ivory_rose_funeral_sheaf.jpg)
Is it best to play it safe and go for white / ivory?
“Funeral and sympathy flowers should be a reflection of the person they are paying tribute to,” says our head florist Jay Archer. “If you’re remembering someone who was bright, bubbly and vivacious and wore bright colours, the flowers can reflect this. If you’re remembering a young person, you might want to choose the colours you would find in a spring bunch of tulips. Similarly if the person was a keen gardener, try to find their favourite flowers rather than be governed by what’s available in white.”Where’s the best place to start?
We suggest speaking to your local florist – they will have a wealth of experience and will be able to suggest designs and ideas. If you’re in London or Hampshire then our expert florists can help – they have the pick of what’s in season on our sustainable English and Fairtrade farms including David Austin roses. You can also browse our range of sympathy flowers here for ideas. These designs are made to order by hand in our Hampshire farm workshop by our highly skilled florists.When should you order funeral flowers?
Ideally try to give your florist seven to ten days’ notice. We also have a range of funeral and condolence flowers that can be ordered for next day UK delivery. You can shop the funeral flower collection here.Most florists can arrange same day or named day delivery of sympathy and condolence flowers. Our London flower shop in Chelsea Green can deliver same day throughout London or you can order online from our website for next day (or named day) delivery throughout the UK. Floral tributes like a Funeral Sheaf or Sympathy Wreath are usually delivered to the undertaker or brought in person on the day. If you are arranging for flowers to be delivered to the undertaker, we recommend that you include the name of the deceased and the date of the funeral on the address label. If you add a note when placing your order then our customer services team will make sure everything is in hand or you can contact us here with any questions.Funeral Flowers by Season
We asked Jay for her favourite flowers for sympathy and funeral arrangements by season: Always rosemary for remembrance – it’s evergreen and so is available throughout the year.Spring – English narcissi, tulips and blossomSummer – English roses and sweet peasAutumn – catkins, berries and twigsWinter – olive (for peace) and ivy berriesFuneral Customs by Religion
Buddhism – white flowers are traditional and may be sent to the family. Avoid red flowers and gifts of food.Catholicism – all flowers welcome.Hinduism – mourners don’t bring flowers or gifts to the funeral. Flower garlands and seasonal flowers may be in the casket. Ten days after the death, a ceremony is held – if you visit at this time then it is customary to bring fruit.Islam – opinions are divided but flowers are not usually given, except occasionally something small and modest. Opt for a condolence card or a gift to charity instead. Food or a food baskets are also sometimes given.Judaism – it is not customary to send flowers to the family home or funeral. A Jewish funeral takes place as soon after death as possible and flowers are not present. Instead send a condolence card or make a gift to charity.Mormonism – flowers welcome but avoid tributes in the shape of a cross.Protestant Christianity – all flowers welcome.What is a Funeral Sheaf?
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What other options are there?
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