Flowers, as beautiful and symbolic as they are, represent so much more beyond their colourful appearance. When it comes to a funeral, flowers become even more significant, containing within each type a message for the bereaved and their loved ones.

However, sometimes, when it comes to funeral flowers, we might not know exactly if we should be sending them over. There is no clear etiquette when it comes to sending condolence flowers, and especially in recent years, where there are more casual flower arrangements available.

From condolence wreaths to grand flower bouquets, and even live potted plants being an option, sending out flowers (or fauna in general) to funerals can become confusing.

A quick consideration will be your relationship with the deceased, or the survivors, and perhaps also their chosen faith.

If you are an immediate family member of the deceased, you can order any type of condolence wreath. Flowers from the family are usually placed closest to the casket during the wake, while others would be inside the casket. Casket wreaths are usually from the immediate family.

Extended family members would have even more options, including traditional funeral floral stands, which is the most significant (and eye-catching). Another option will be to send more informal arrangements of flowers, which can be brought to the cemetery.

For close friends or business associates of the deceased and / or their family members, options for condolence flowers include wreath stands, basket arrangements, condolence wreaths, bouquet in a vase, or live plants.

You’ll want to consider the deceased’s (and their family’s) faith and culture before selecting the type of flowers and sending them over. There are certain flower arrangements and wreaths that may be appropriate for one culture, but not for another. You may ask about the deceased’s faith from a close family member, before deciding to send funeral flowers over.

Here are the common practices for a selection of different faiths and religions:

The recommended types of flowers to send include orchids, lilies, carnations, chrysanthemums and roses. You may ask the deceased’s family member if there are any particular flower(s) that are favoured.

When it comes to color options of the flowers, most funeral flowers are in shades of white, pink, yellow, lilac, or pale blue. Generally, pale and muted colours are preferred. In Asian context, it is best to avoid flowers in bright and dark red colours, which are usually associated with more happiness and auspicious occasions.

At SG Florist, Kuala Lumpur’s premiere funeral flowers provider, we have a range of options available for your choosing. If you are unsure of what to select, speak with us and we will make the necessary recommendation for you. Browse our collection, or contact us for your condolence floral needs here.