Should You Send Wreath to Funeral?
People gather at funerals to grieve the loss of a loved one and support one another. It has always been customary to provide symbolic expressions of condolence during these difficult times. Sending a wreath to a funeral is one example of this. But is it suitable in all circumstances? Is it appropriate to send wreath to funeral, or are there other ways to express your condolences?
Funeral wreaths have been used for thousands of years as a symbol of remembrance and eternal life. The wreath’s round form, which has no beginning or end, symbolizes eternity, continuity, and the life-death cycle. In many cultures, wreaths are given as a sign of appreciation for their lives and what they have done.
One traditional way to send condolences is to send wreath to funeral. You can use various flowers, greenery, and ribbons to represent peace, hope, or even certain qualities that reflect the life of the departed.
When Should You Send Wreath to Funeral
While a wreath is a thoughtful gift, there are some things you should consider before sending one.
What type of funeral service will the family have?
Different floral arrangements may be suitable for different funeral services. A massive floral wreath, for instance, could be more appropriate for a conventional Christian funeral, while a smaller, more private service might call for something more straightforward, like a bouquet or a donation made in the deceased’s honor.
Make sure to know this so that you can make an informed decision.
What are the family’s wishes?
Sometimes, the family of the deceased may specifically ask for certain tokens of sympathy, such as charitable contributions instead of flowers. To honor the family’s preferences, always abide by these wishes.
What is your relationship with the deceased?
Sending a wreath is a meaningful way to express your respect for the deceased if you are close to them. A smaller arrangement or sympathy card can be more suitable for acquaintances, business partners, or distant relatives.
Other Ways to Show Sympathy
To send wreath to funeral is not the only way to show your sympathies. Here are some meaningful options that you can choose from.
A Smaller Flower Arrangement
A smaller, more intimate bouquet may be the perfect remembrance if the funeral is more private. Lilies, roses, and carnations are commonly used flowers with symbolic meanings of peace, love, and remembering.
Sympathy Cards
A sincere card of sympathy can be consoling. Whether or not you send flowers, you can communicate your feelings more intimately by personalizing your message.
Care Packages
Sometimes, the family gets so caught up with the tasks that come after the death of a loved one that they may forget to care for themselves.
Providing practical support in the form of meals or care packages is thoughtful and considerate, particularly if the family is grieving a great loss. Simple dinners, fruit baskets, or handwritten messages offering assistance with everyday tasks can lessen their burden.
Donations to Charitable Institutions
Instead of flowers, the family may ask for money to be donated to a chosen charity. This can be a great opportunity to pay tribute to the departed and support a cause that holds special value for them. The family may choose an institution the deceased may have been donating to when they were still alive. An institution that upholds the values the deceased has had strong feelings for may also be an option.
Planting a Memorial Tree
One great way to honor the deceased is by planting a tree in their memory. This creates a meaningful, living, and lasting tribute to a loved one who has passed away.
When choosing a memorial tree, you can choose the deceased’s favorite tree. Like flowers, trees have symbolic meanings. For instance, the oak tree represents truth, safety, and bravery, while a dogwood tree symbolizes hope amidst pain. Another tree that can make for a wonderful memorial tree is the willow, which represents rebirth and life.
Things That You Should Consider Before You Send a Wreath to a Funeral
While sending a wreath is thoughtful, there are factors that you should consider first. Here are some of them.
- The family’s cultural and religious practices: Flowers may mean different things in each culture and religion. For instance, you should not bring flowers or gifts to a Hindu funeral service.
- The location of the funeral service: Logistics is a very important factor when sending a funeral gift. If the service is a modest one, a big wreath may seem overwhelming and out of place.
- The timing of the delivery: Make sure that the wreath is delivered before the service starts, so it can be accommodated and displayed properly.
Contact Hot Springs Florist for Your Wreath Needs.
It is a long-standing custom to send a wreath to a funeral to show your love, respect, and condolences for the departed and their family. Call Hot Springs Florist and let us help you create a wreath that will celebrate the life lived by a deceased loved one.
