What to write on funeral flowers for family?

By HotBotUpdated: July 30, 2024

Answer

Understanding the Importance of Funeral Flower Messages

Funeral flowers are more than mere decorations; they symbolize love, respect, and remembrance for the deceased. Crafting the right message to accompany these flowers is crucial, as it provides comfort to the grieving family and pays tribute to the departed soul. Funeral flower messages can vary depending on your relationship with the deceased and their family, cultural norms, and personal sentiments.

Basic Etiquette for Funeral Flower Messages

When writing a message for funeral flowers, it's important to consider the tone and length. Messages should be sincere, respectful, and concise. Typically, these messages are kept short due to limited space, but they should encapsulate your feelings effectively.

Examples of Concise Messages

"With deepest sympathy."
"In loving memory."
"Gone but never forgotten."
"Forever in our hearts."
"Rest in peace."

Personalizing Funeral Flower Messages

Personalizing your message can make it more meaningful. Reflect on your relationship with the deceased and consider including a cherished memory or a specific trait you admired.

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For a Parent

"You were the guiding light of our family. Your love and wisdom will forever be with us."
"Thank you for being the best parent anyone could ask for. Your legacy lives on in each of us."

For a Sibling

"My dear brother/sister, your laughter and love will always echo in my heart."
"You were my first friend and my forever hero. I'll miss you every day."

For a Spouse

"You were my rock and my love. Till we meet again."
"Thank you for a lifetime of love and memories. You will always be in my heart."

For a Child

"Our little angel, you brought so much joy into our lives. We will love you forever."
"You were our greatest gift, and we will cherish your memory always."

Considerations for Different Cultures and Religions

Different cultures and religions have varying customs when it comes to funeral flower messages. Understanding these nuances can help ensure your message is both appropriate and comforting.

Christian Funerals

In Christian funerals, messages often reflect the belief in an afterlife. Common phrases include:

"In God's care you rest above, in our hearts you rest with love."
"May you find peace in the arms of the Lord."

Jewish Funerals

Flowers are generally not sent to Jewish funerals. Instead, donations to a charity or planting a tree in Israel are common. However, if flowers are accepted, messages should be respectful and simple, such as:

"May his/her memory be a blessing."
"Thinking of you during this time of sorrow."

Hindu Funerals

Hindu funerals focus on the cycle of reincarnation and the soul's journey. Messages can include:

"May your journey to the next life be peaceful."
"We will miss you and remember your kind spirit."

Buddhist Funerals

Buddhist funerals emphasize peace and the continuation of the soul. Suitable messages include:

"May you find peace and happiness in your next life."
"Your spirit will always be with us."

Incorporating Quotes and Poetry

Including a quote or a line of poetry can add depth and emotion to your message. Here are a few examples that resonate during times of loss:

Quotes

"What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we love deeply becomes a part of us." – Helen Keller
"To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die." – Thomas Campbell

Poetry

"Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there; I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow..." – Mary Elizabeth Frye
"And when the stream that overflows has passed, a consciousness remains upon the silent shore of memory; images and precious thoughts that shall not be and cannot be destroyed." – William Wordsworth

Messages for Different Types of Funeral Flower Arrangements

The type of flower arrangement can also determine the nature of your message. Traditional arrangements include wreaths, sprays, and baskets, each with its own unique symbolism.

Wreaths

Wreaths symbolize eternal life and are a popular choice for funerals. Messages can include:

"Circle of love, forever remembered."
"Eternally in our hearts."

Sprays

Funeral sprays are often placed on the casket or displayed on an easel. Suitable messages include:

"With heartfelt condolences."
"In loving memory of a beautiful soul."

Baskets

Baskets of flowers can be sent to the funeral home or the family's residence. Messages can include:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
"With deepest sympathy during this difficult time."

Rarely Known Tips for Writing Funeral Flower Messages

While most people focus on the message itself, the presentation and timing can also be important. Here are some lesser-known tips to consider:

Handwritten Notes

Whenever possible, opt for a handwritten note rather than a printed card. This adds a personal touch and shows that you took the time to craft your message thoughtfully.

Timing

Sending flowers promptly after hearing the news of the passing ensures that your message reaches the family when they need comfort the most. However, sending flowers a week or two later can also provide ongoing support.

Choosing the Right Florist

Selecting a reputable florist with experience in creating funeral arrangements can make a significant difference. They can guide you in choosing appropriate flowers and help craft a message that resonates.

The art of writing a funeral flower message is a delicate balance of expressing your grief, offering comfort, and paying tribute to the deceased. By considering the relationship, cultural norms, and personalizing your message, you can create a heartfelt note that offers solace and honors the memory of your loved one.