The Symbolism of Funeral Flowers and How to Choose Them

Choosing the right flowers for a funeral is a meaningful way to honor the deceased and provide comfort to grieving families. Funeral homes West Chester, PA, often see families carefully considering which flowers to include in their services. The symbolism and cultural significance of flowers can vary, making your choice all the more important. 

The Symbolism of Common Funeral Flowers 

1. Lilies: Lilies are perhaps the most common funeral flower, symbolizing the restored innocence of the soul of the deceased. Their elegant, white petals are often associated with a sense of peace and purity. 

2. Roses: Roses, depending on their color, convey different sentiments. White roses symbolize reverence, humility, and innocence, while red roses indicate love and respect. Yellow roses are often given to celebrate a life well-lived and are a sign of friendship. 

3. Carnations: Carnations are particularly popular in funeral arrangements due to their long-lasting nature. Pink carnations evoke remembrance, red signifies admiration, and white represents pure love and innocence. 

4. Orchids: Orchids, particularly the white and pink varieties, are a symbol of eternal love. They convey a message of sympathy and suggest that the loved one will always be remembered. 

5. Chrysanthemums In many cultures, chrysanthemums represent death and are strictly used for funerals. They signify honor, respect, and devotion. In other regions, like Asia, they are viewed as a symbol of rebirth and new life. 

Choosing the Right Flowers 

Picking the right flowers involves more than just knowing their meanings; it’s also about personalizing the tribute to reflect the unique life of the deceased. 

Consider Cultural and Religious Preferences Different cultures and religions have varied associations with specific flowers. For example, in some Asian cultures, white flowers are typically used to signify mourning. It’s advisable to consult with the family or consider cultural norms to ensure your choice aligns with their traditions. 

Incorporate Personal Preferences Adding a personal touch by incorporating the favorite flowers of the deceased can make the arrangement more special and meaningful. This not only honors the individual but also brings a sense of familiarity and comfort to the grieving family. 

Think About Color Scheme The color of the flowers can set the tone of the funeral. Whites are classic and calming, pinks are gentle and caring, while brighter colors can celebrate a life well-lived. Funeral homes often help families create arrangements that convey the right balance of reverence and celebration. 

Seasonal Availability Seasonal flowers can be a cost-effective way to create beautiful arrangements. They also add a natural, timely element to the service. Funeral homes frequently advise on what’s in season and how those flowers can be used effectively in arrangements. 

The Importance of Consultation 

Funeral directors and florists with experience in creating funeral arrangements can provide invaluable guidance. From traditional wreaths to modern tributes, experts can help ensure that the added details align with the family’s wishes and the departed's legacy. 

Many funeral homes understand the emotional weight of these choices and aim to provide supportive, compassionate assistance. Our funeral home in West Chester, PA, Donohue Funeral Home, we guide families through these decisions with the utmost respect and care, ensuring every detail aligns with their wishes and honors their loved one appropriately. If you need more information on how to choose the right flowers or if you have specific preferences, do not hesitate to call us.