When arranging funeral flowers it helps to understand the different types of flower arrangements available. Each style has its own symbolic meaning, purpose, and place in funeral services. Knowing what options exist makes it easier to choose a tribute that feels appropriate, respectful, and aligned with the wishes of the family and the memory of the deceased.
Casket Sprays
A casket spray is a large arrangement placed directly on the coffin. It is often chosen by close family members to serve as a final tribute. Sprays come in several formats: full-casket sprays (for closed casket services) or half-casket sprays (for open casket viewings). The flowers selected often reflect the favourite blooms, colours, or character of the person who has passed. Lilies, roses, orchids, and seasonal flowers are commonly used in casket sprays. They are prominent and highly visible during the service, making them one of the most significant floral tributes.
Standing Sprays and Easel Arrangements
Standing sprays are large vertical arrangements displayed on easels near the coffin, altar or entrance of the service. These are often sent by extended family, close friends, or organisations who wish to express respect. Designs may take shapes such as crosses, hearts, or simply large—impressive floral displays. The vertical height makes them visible from a distance. Flowers like gladioli, chrysanthemums, roses and mixed seasonal blooms are typical in standing sprays.
Wreaths
Wreaths are circular or ring-shaped arrangements symbolising eternal life, continuity and remembrance. They can be placed near the casket, at the altar, grave site, or even set on easels. Wreaths are often chosen by family members, friends, or groups who wish to express solidarity in grief. Common flowers in wreaths include of course roses, lilies, chrysanthemums and foliage.
Funeral Baskets and Sympathy Bouquets
These are more modest or intimate tributes. Baskets or bouquet arrangements are often delivered to the bereaved family’s home or placed at memorial tables. While less formal than sprays or wreaths, they offer comfort and support. They are easier to transport or display in smaller spaces. A carefully chosen bouquet or basket can convey deep sympathy. Flowers used in these can vary, including mixed garden flowers, softer tones, and favourites of the deceased.
Potted Plants and Live Floral Tributes
A growing trend is sending potted plants—orchids, peace lilies, or other house plants—as funeral tributes. These offer a living memory that can be taken home, tended, and enjoyed longer than cut flowers. They bring life and continuity as a tribute beyond the service. They are especially meaningful if the family prefers something less traditional or wants something long-lasting.
Floral Crosses, Hearts and Custom Shapes
For religious or personal symbolism, arrangements shaped like crosses, hearts, or other custom forms are often chosen. A cross-shaped arrangement is common in Christian funerals. Heart shapes express deep affection or love. Custom shapes or designs can also incorporate elements significant to the deceased—hobbies, favourite colours, or symbolic motifs.
Grave Site Arrangements or Cemetery Tributes
After the funeral service, many families choose arrangements to place at the grave site. These might be simpler floral pieces—smaller sprays, wreaths or wrapped bouquets. Sometimes they’re designed to lie flat or be mounted. These tributes serve as a lasting marker of remembrance at the final resting place.
When Choosing Which Arrangement Is Right
- Consider the preferences of the family: some may prefer traditional arrangements, some more personalised or nature-inspired pieces.
- Think about the location of the service: indoors vs outdoors, weather conditions, space and display surfaces.
- Respect cultural or religious traditions: shape, colour and type of arrangement may vary depending on cultural norms.
- Budget: Larger pieces like full casket sprays or large standing sprays will cost more; sympathy baskets or smaller bouquets are more modest.
Funeral flower arrangements come in many forms, from wreaths and sprays to casket covers and sheafs. Whether choosing a large casket spray, a meaningful wreath, a comforting bouquet, or a living plant tribute, every type of arrangement can help express sympathy, honour the memory of the departed, and bring a small measure of comfort to those grieving.
