Flowers are not just fragrant and beautiful gifts; they also symbolise comfort and emotional support. For many, they are a meaningful way to communicate sympathy, remembrance, hope, and love, especially during difficult times. This is why choosing the right flowers for condolences requires thought and care.
So, how do we choose flowers that best express sympathy?
The Importance of Flowers in Times of Grief
Sending flowers to someone during a wake or loss has become a tradition. Since soft, comforting words can be difficult to express, people often choose flowers as a way to convey sympathy. Flowers have the power to evoke emotions, honour memories, and convey respect and sympathy.
Flowers also serve as a focal point during memorials, funerals, and gatherings to honour loved ones.
Understanding the Symbolism of Sympathy Flowers
Flowers carry meaningful symbolism, making them a powerful choice for condolence messages. Specific flowers are meant to express heartfelt sympathy in a more personal way, just like the listed blooms below.
Here are your picks when choosing the right blooms for condolences:
1. Lilies for Purity and Innocence
Lilies are considered as one of the most common flowers used in funeral arrangements, especially the white ones. This bloom symbolises the soul of a departed person wherein innocence was restored after death. White lilies are elegant, they describe purity which gives respect to the person who has passed.
2. Roses for Respect, Grace, and Sympathy
Roses are not only for the living; certain colours convey love, respect, grace, and even sympathy.
- White roses for purity and innocence, making them an appropriate choice for giving respect to someone’s memory.
- Pink roses express gratitude, it’s a sign of giving thanks to loved ones.
- Yellow roses are meant to express sympathy for a lost friend.
3. Chrysanthemums for Sincerity, Truth, and Friendship
This type of flower is widely used for mourning, death, and sorrow, especially in Asian and European countries. Its sombre look symbolises respect and dignity for the ones who passed away. In the United States, these blooms reciprocate a lot of meaning, including honour, friendship, and honesty.
4. Carnations for Everlasting Love and Remembrance
One of the most favourite flowers for condolences is the Carnation, due to its long-lasting beauty and symbolism.
- White carnations express innocent & pure love, and of course, sympathy.
- Pink carnations are considered to be linked to fond memories which are good for remembering good times with the person who has passed.
- Red blooms are not just for expressing happiness and love, for carnations, they signify admiration, making them the best pick for honouring life.
5. Orchids for Eternal Love and Strength
Orchids are popular in gardens and flower arrangements alike. But did you know that orchids also symbolise love, beauty, and power? Their long lifespan symbolises resilience and strength, offering a sense of endurance during difficult times.
6. Hydrangeas for Healing and Understanding
Hydrangeas in blooms with colours symbolise emotions, endurance, and sympathy. They are the best options for sending empathy to the grieving family. Hydrangeas are often potted to make them a lasting and thoughtful expression of sympathy.
7. Daisies for Innocence and New Beginnings
This flower might not be as famous as other blooms for funeral arrangements, but they have this bright and cheerful vibe that can bring hope and peace. Pure white daisies are often used in arrangements to honour the memory of children, symbolising innocence and peace. In this way, loved ones can remember the beautiful spirit of a young person’s death.
8. Gladiolus for Strength, Integrity, and Character
This flower is described as tall and elegantly stalked, which stands for strength, integrity, and good character. Gladioli are the best choice for showing courage, respect, and resilience.
What Do Flower Colours Represent in Condolence Arrangements?
- White flowers: Purity, peace, and innocence.
- Red flowers: Love and valour.
- Pink flowers: Respect, memories, appreciation, and gratitude.
- Yellow flowers: Friendship and hope.
- Purple flowers: Dignity, respect, and admiration.
Flower arrangements are not only reserved for joyful occasions; they also provide comfort and support during times of grief. At Anastasia Florists, we understand the importance of thoughtful, carefully chosen sympathy flowers to express compassion and honour memories. Our arrangements offer a personal, sincere touch, helping to convey messages of hope, love, and remembrance.
