Funeral Flower Etiquette & Wording Guide

A gentle, practical guide from our Clifton florists: what to send, when it should arrive, and what to write. Choosing flowers for a funeral, or for someone who is grieving, can feel daunting when you have never had to before. There are no strict rules, and no wrong choices made with kindness. This guide answers the questions we are most often asked, so you can send something fitting with confidence.

What flowers are right for a funeral?

Almost any flower can be right. Traditionally, white and cream blooms such as lilies, roses and chrysanthemums are chosen for their calm and their sense of peace, with greenery for remembrance. But flowers in a colour the person loved, or their favourite bloom, are just as fitting and often more personal. If you are unsure, tell us a little about them and we will suggest something suitable.

Sympathy flowers or funeral flowers — what is the difference?

Funeral flowers are tributes sent to the service itself, such as wreaths, casket sprays and sheaves. Sympathy flowers are a bouquet sent to a grieving person at their home, to comfort them. If the family has asked for donations instead of flowers at the funeral, a sympathy bouquet sent to the home is a thoughtful alternative. You might send one, the other, or both.

Can you send flowers to a funeral director or crematorium?

Yes. Tributes for the service are usually sent to the funeral director, who gathers all the flowers and arranges them for the day, or directly to the crematorium or place of service. When you order, it helps to give us the date and time of the service and the funeral director’s name. We deliver to funeral directors and crematoria across Bristol and time every delivery to arrive before the service.

A gentle note on hospitals: please send sympathy flowers to a home or private address rather than a hospital ward, as most wards are unable to accept flowers.

When should funeral flowers arrive?

Our preferred delivery date is the day before the service, so your tribute is with the funeral director in good time and everything is ready without anything left to the last minute. If the day before is not possible, we will deliver first thing on the morning of the funeral, before it begins. Sympathy flowers to a home can arrive any time, in the first days after a loss or in the quieter weeks that follow, when they are often needed most. Because our tributes are made to order by hand, we ask for at least 36 hours’ notice.

How much do funeral flowers cost?

The cost depends on the type and size of the tribute, from a modest posy or sheaf to a full casket spray. We make tributes to suit a range of budgets, and we are always happy to talk through the options with you on the phone, with no pressure at all. Just call us on 0117 973 2440.

What to write on a funeral flower card

A few honest words are always enough. It is fine to keep it simple. Below are examples you are welcome to use as they are, or to adapt. If you order with us, we will write your message by hand.

From family

Forever in our hearts. Rest peacefully, with all our love.

Thank you for a lifetime of love. We will miss you every day. All our love, always.

From a friend

A dear friend and a beautiful soul. I will treasure every memory. With love.

Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time. Here whenever you need me.

From a colleague or workplace

With deepest sympathy from all of us. He will be greatly missed by everyone who worked alongside him.

Our thoughts are with you and your family. With sincere condolences from all at [name].

Formal

With heartfelt condolences to you and your family at this sad time.

Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our thoughts are with you all.

Brief

With love and deepest sympathy.

Thinking of you always.

Rest in peace.

So very sorry for your loss.

Common questions

Should I still send flowers if the family asked for donations?

A request for donations usually applies to the funeral itself. A sympathy bouquet sent to the family’s home is a kind and welcome gesture either way.

Do I need to sign the card with my full name?

It helps the family to know who each tribute is from, so a name they will recognise is thoughtful, particularly on flowers sent to the service.

How much notice do you need?

At least 36 hours for funeral tributes, as each is made to order. For sympathy bouquets we offer same-day delivery where possible if you order by 11am, Monday to Saturday.