Etiquette & Tips

I just heard the sad news, is it too late to send sympathy flowers?
Some people choose to send flowers a week or so after the funeral when the initial chaos has passed. A nice gesture is to send flowers to the home after the funeral to remind the bereaved that you have not forgotten them and that you are still thinking about them and the person who passed. Even if a few weeks have passed, flowers are a comforting reminder that friends are still thinking of the family throughout the grieving process.

What is appropriate to send to the family?
A plant, food basket or small to mid-size designed sympathy arrangement is typically sent to the home of the surviving family members. Flower arrangements are appropriate in any size or shape. Some people choose to send a small garden of green plants accented with a blooming plant for color.

What does sitting Shiva mean?
If the deceased was Jewish the immediate family will sit Shiva in their home for seven days after the passing. It is customary for friends and coworkers to come by the home and pay their respects to the family, this is known as paying a Shiva call. Desserts, fruit and Kosher food baskets are traditionally taken to or sent to the home, however, flowers are not appropriate for a Shiva call.

Is it ok to send a fruit or gourmet food basket?
In some cases, particularly in Jewish cultures, a fruit or gourmet basket is greatly appreciated by a family who is receiving out-of-town guests during the mourning period. This type of gift does double-duty, delivering your condolences while helping to care for and nurture family and friends.

I’d like to send a gift that will last longer than flowers.
While many of us think of flowers to express sympathy, plants are a perfectly lovely and long lasting way to show you are thinking of them. Plants can be enjoyed for months to come.

I would like to send a gift to the home that’s not too showy, what should I send?
When it comes to expressing your condolences in a classic manner, nothing is more elegant than a mix of all-white flowers. White flowers have long represented humility and reverence, while also sending a message of loyalty.

Though it’s a sad time, I’d prefer to send a bright, colorful arrangement, is that OK?
Keep in mind that a sympathy arrangement doesn't necessarily have to be dark and somber. During this difficult time, you can help remind the family to celebrate the life that was lived. Flowers add fragrance, color and beauty to an otherwise somber atmosphere and provide a comforting diversion from their sadness. An arrangement filled with springtime colors like pink, yellow and lavender are a lovely reminder of hope and rebirth.

How do sympathy flowers differ from funeral flowers?
Sympathy flowers are addressed and sent directly to a loved one of the deceased.They are usually smaller floral arrangements that decorate end tables or can be used as a centerpiece in the family home. Funeral flowers serve as a tribute to the deceased at the funeral service. Funeral flowers should never be sent to the home as they are too formal, large and inappropriate for a home or office and can be upsetting to the grieving family.