Flowers show respect for the deceased, as well as loving support of family and friends.  Artfully arranged fresh cut or live flowers make for a more pleasant atmosphere, helping those present feel as comfortable and welcome as possible.  In expressing your thoughtful sympathies by arranging for flowers at a service, you help create a lasting and beautiful memory for those who have gathered to mourn the loss of someone dear.

At a time of loss, recipients list flowers and sympathy cards as the most meaningful of gifts. Those surveyed believe flowers and plants are a critical component of funerals, providing a necessary diversion, something to talk about, and a bright environment at a somber time. Respondents also agreed strongly that looking at the cards to see who sent flowers is a comfort.

There is a wide variety of floral tributes for every budget. Among them: bud vases; table arrangements; standing arrangements; sprays; casket drapes; wreaths; garden basket planters; and other designs which reflect a more personal aspect of the deceased, such as favored flowers, colors, and styles.   At Your Friend in Flowers, we can custom shape a standing arrangement to highlight a special aspect of the deceased.   Call for details.

Other popular and thoughtful gifts are fruit and food baskets sent directly to the family at home.  

Some frequently asked questions: 

The obituary says "In lieu of flowers," but I still would like to send flowers - is this appropriate?   Yes, flowers are also appropriate in these situations. Many people choose to send a token of remembrance to the service or family home as well as a donation to the charity indicated.

I am not sure how to sign the card. What should I say?  Messages such as "Deepest sympathy," "With love and sympathy," "Forever in our thoughts and Prayers," or "You will be missed" are thoughtful expressions.   Then you should use your first and last name to avoid confusion for the family. If there are a group of names, you should spell each one for the person taking the order to make sure he or she has the correct information.

I am not certain where the service is being held. Can the florist help me?  If you have the name of the deceased and the funeral home, we will help  have the obituaries on hand to check them. You can trust the florist to get the sympathy flowers to the funeral on time.

I just heard the news... Is it too late to send flowers?  No matter when you hear the sad news, sending flowers is always appropriate. You can choose to send a flower arrangement to the service or home of the surviving family members.