The quick answer: Send a standing spray, wreath or large arrangement to the funeral service, or a vase arrangement or plant to the family's home. Casket sprays are usually ordered by immediate family. It's never too late to send flowers, and Bunches can find the service time and location if you have the name of the deceased.
Flowers have been part of funeral customs in nearly every culture. They're one of the gentlest ways to show respect for the person who died and comfort for the family grieving them.
Shop the Sympathy Collection →
Where should I send sympathy flowers?
| Send to | Best choices | What it says |
|---|---|---|
| Funeral service | Standing sprays, wreaths, crosses, large baskets and vase arrangements | A tribute to the person who died |
| Family home | Vase arrangements, centrepieces, plants, small keepsake designs | "I'm thinking of you" |
| Casket | Full or half casket sprays | Usually ordered by immediate family |
Funeral etiquette FAQ
Is it too late to send sympathy flowers?
No. Flowers are always appropriate, whenever you hear the news. If you've missed the service, send them to the family home. Flowers that arrive a few weeks later are a comforting reminder that people are still thinking of the family.
What if I don't know where or when the service is?
Give us the full name of the deceased, and the funeral home if you know it. Bunches will find the time and location for you.
Can I send flowers to an out-of-town funeral?
Yes. We'll pass your order to a trusted florist near the service. They'll design it to your budget using local customs and what's in season.
The obituary says "in lieu of flowers." Can I still send flowers?
Respect the family's wishes first. Many people donate to the charity named and also send a small arrangement or plant to the family home as a personal gesture.
Are there any flowers that aren't appropriate for a funeral?
Any flower can express sympathy when it's tastefully arranged. A few guidelines:
- For the service: Larger blooms and bigger designs suit a church or chapel.
- For the home: Smaller, more intimate designs work best.
- Skip: balloons, festive ribbons and plush toys.
Do all faiths include flowers at funerals?
Not always. Flowers aren't a traditional part of some faiths, including Jewish funerals. A plant or food basket sent to the home may be more fitting. If you're unsure, ask us, since we're familiar with local customs.
Is it okay to send colourful flowers to a funeral?
Yes. A funeral is also a celebration of the life lived. Bright, cheerful flowers can bring a joyful note of remembrance. Whites and pastels are a quieter, elegant choice if you prefer.
Flowers for the funeral service
Service flowers are a living tribute to the person who died.
- Vase or basket arrangements are the most popular choice for any service.
- Standing sprays, wreaths and crosses add visual impact among other tributes.
- For multi-day services, such as a viewing, service and memorial, choose designs in water or floral foam so they stay fresh.
- Plants can go home with the family afterwards and last for months.
Going to both the service and the home? Tell us. A wreath doesn't suit a living room, and a low centrepiece gets lost in a church. We'll design something that works in both places.
Flowers for the family home
Flowers sent to the home offer comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you."
- Vase arrangements and centrepieces
- Plants and planter baskets: a mix of green and blooming plants lasts for months
- Small keepsake designs, such as flowers in a teacup
Casket sprays
Casket flowers are usually chosen by the closest family, often the children or whoever is making the arrangements. Please check with the family before ordering one.
- Full casket spray (lid spray): runs the length of a closed casket.
- Half casket spray (foot spray): for a half-open casket.
Casket spray and tribute styles
| Style | Look | Suits |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional | Rich red roses with white accents | Anyone. Classic strength and beauty. |
| Lovely & reverent | All-white blooms on dark greenery | Soft, elegant, timeless |
| Soft & pretty | Dainty pastels and whites | A beloved mother, grandmother, sister or aunt |
| Warm & bright | Vibrant English-garden mix | Celebrating a joyful, lively spirit |
| Peaceful & natural | Twigs, moss, lush foliage and favourite flowers | Someone who loved the outdoors |
| Simple & stunning | Orchids, ginger, heliconia, bird of paradise | A traveller or adventurous spirit |
We can also personalize a spray around a hobby or passion. Bright blooms suit an avid gardener, for example.
What should I write on a sympathy card?
A short message is enough. Sign with your first and last name so the family knows who it's from.
- "With deepest sympathy"
- "In loving memory of [name]"
- "Thinking of you and your family"
- "With heartfelt condolences"
Sending from a group or office? Use the company or group name, or list each name clearly. For long lists, ask us for a larger card to attach to the arrangement.
Ordering sympathy flowers in Winnipeg
Have these ready:
- the name of the deceased
- the funeral home or service location and time (or we'll find it)
- the delivery address, if sending to the home
- your card message
- your budget
At Lakewood, every sympathy arrangement is made with care and attention to freshness. Our team is always here to help you choose.
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