What to Put on Funeral Flowers: A Reflection on Memories and Emotions

When it comes to funeral flowers, the question of what to include often transcends mere aesthetics. It becomes a deeply personal and symbolic act, a way to honor the departed and express emotions that words alone cannot convey. The choice of flowers, colors, and accompanying messages can serve as a bridge between the living and the deceased, a tangible representation of love, respect, and remembrance. But beyond the traditional roses and lilies, what else can we put on funeral flowers to make them truly meaningful? Let us explore this question through various lenses, from cultural traditions to personal sentiments, and even the unexpected.
The Language of Flowers: Symbolism and Meaning
Flowers have long been used to convey emotions and messages, a practice known as floriography. In the context of funeral flowers, the choice of blooms can carry profound significance. For instance, white lilies are often associated with purity and the restored innocence of the soul, making them a common choice for funerals. Roses, depending on their color, can symbolize love (red), respect (dark pink), or even eternal sleep (white). Chrysanthemums, particularly in European cultures, are synonymous with death and are frequently used in funeral arrangements.
But what if we go beyond these traditional choices? Consider adding forget-me-nots, which, as their name suggests, symbolize remembrance and enduring love. Or perhaps include rosemary, an herb traditionally associated with memory and fidelity. These less conventional additions can add layers of meaning to the floral tribute, making it a more personalized and poignant expression of grief and love.
Cultural Perspectives: Honoring Traditions and Beliefs
Different cultures have unique customs and beliefs surrounding funeral flowers, and understanding these can provide valuable insights into what to include. In many Asian cultures, for example, white and yellow chrysanthemums are the flowers of choice for funerals, symbolizing grief and lamentation. In contrast, Hindu funerals often feature marigolds, which are believed to guide the soul to the afterlife.
In some African cultures, flowers may not be the primary focus; instead, other natural elements like leaves, branches, or even fruits might be used to create a more holistic tribute. Incorporating these cultural elements into funeral flowers can be a way to honor the deceased’s heritage and provide comfort to the bereaved by adhering to familiar traditions.
Personal Touches: Making the Tribute Unique
While cultural and symbolic considerations are important, personal touches can elevate a funeral flower arrangement from a generic tribute to a deeply personal memorial. Consider including items that were meaningful to the deceased, such as a favorite flower, a small keepsake, or even a handwritten note. These additions can transform the arrangement into a unique and heartfelt expression of love and remembrance.
For example, if the deceased was an avid gardener, incorporating flowers from their own garden into the arrangement can create a powerful connection to their life and passions. Similarly, if they had a favorite color or a particular flower they loved, including these elements can make the tribute feel more personal and intimate.
The Unexpected: Breaking the Mold
While tradition and symbolism play significant roles in the choice of funeral flowers, there is also room for the unexpected. What if, instead of a traditional bouquet, the flowers were arranged in a shape or design that held special meaning? For instance, a floral arrangement in the shape of a heart could symbolize the love that endures beyond death, while a circular design might represent the eternal nature of the soul.
Another unconventional idea is to include flowers that are not typically associated with funerals but hold personal significance. For example, if the deceased had a favorite wildflower or a bloom that reminded them of a cherished memory, including these in the arrangement can create a unique and deeply personal tribute.
The Role of Color: Conveying Emotions
Color plays a crucial role in the language of flowers, and this is especially true in the context of funeral arrangements. While white is often associated with purity and peace, other colors can convey different emotions and messages. Red, for instance, can symbolize love and passion, while blue might represent tranquility and calm. Yellow, often associated with friendship and joy, can be a way to celebrate the life of the deceased rather than focusing solely on the loss.
Incorporating a variety of colors into the funeral flowers can create a more nuanced and layered tribute, reflecting the complexity of emotions that come with grief and remembrance. It can also serve as a visual representation of the multifaceted nature of the deceased’s life and the impact they had on those around them.
The Message: Words That Speak Volumes
Finally, the message that accompanies the funeral flowers can be just as important as the flowers themselves. Whether it’s a simple “In loving memory” or a more personalized note, the words chosen can provide comfort and solace to the bereaved. Consider including a quote, a poem, or even a line from a song that held special meaning for the deceased. These words can serve as a lasting reminder of the love and connection that transcends death.
In conclusion, what to put on funeral flowers is a deeply personal and multifaceted decision. It involves a careful consideration of symbolism, cultural traditions, personal touches, and even the unexpected. By thoughtfully selecting the flowers, colors, and accompanying messages, we can create a tribute that not only honors the deceased but also provides comfort and solace to those left behind. In the end, it is not just about the flowers themselves, but the love, memories, and emotions they represent.
Q&A:
Q: Can I include non-floral elements in funeral flower arrangements? A: Absolutely. Non-floral elements like leaves, branches, or even small keepsakes can add a unique and personal touch to the arrangement, making it more meaningful.
Q: Are there any flowers that are considered inappropriate for funerals? A: While there are no strict rules, some flowers might be considered less appropriate depending on cultural or personal beliefs. For example, bright, cheerful flowers like sunflowers might be seen as too celebratory for a somber occasion.
Q: How can I ensure that the funeral flowers reflect the deceased’s personality? A: Consider incorporating elements that were meaningful to the deceased, such as their favorite flowers, colors, or even hobbies. This can make the tribute feel more personal and reflective of their life.
Q: Is it appropriate to include a photo with the funeral flowers? A: Including a photo can be a touching way to personalize the tribute, especially if it captures a cherished memory or moment in the deceased’s life. However, it’s important to consider the preferences and comfort of the bereaved when making this decision.