When someone you care about is grieving, it’s hard to know what to say. Flowers can say it for you: I’m thinking of you, and I’m here. This guide covers what to send, where to send it, and what to write, so you can focus on what matters.
Sympathy flowers vs funeral flowers
- Sympathy flowers are sent to the family’s home, usually in the days or weeks after a loss. They’re personal and comforting. A hand-tied bouquet is ideal.
- Funeral flowers are sent to the funeral home or service and are often displayed near the casket or memorial. They’re typically larger arrangements.
If you’re not sure, a beautiful bouquet sent to the home is always appropriate.
Colours that comfort
- White: peace, purity and remembrance. The most traditional choice.
- Soft pastels: gentle and comforting, a little warmer than all-white.
- Green and white: calm, natural and fresh.
Bright reds and very bold colours are usually saved for celebrations. That said, if the person who passed loved a certain colour, including it is a beautiful tribute.
Flowers often chosen for sympathy
- Lilies: the flower most associated with funerals, symbolising the soul’s peace. Our White Lily Bouquet comes in medium and large.
- White roses: reverence and remembrance.
- Hydrangea: heartfelt emotion and gratitude.
- Daisies and chrysanthemums: gentle, fresh and long-lasting.
When to send
There’s no wrong time. Many families receive lots of flowers around the service and then very little afterwards. Sending flowers a week or two later, or on a meaningful date, can mean a great deal.
Delivering to a funeral home
At checkout, choose Funeral home as the address type and add the name of the deceased and the service date and time in the delivery instructions. This helps the staff place your flowers correctly.
Delivering to a hospital or care home
Choose Hospital as the address type and include the patient’s full name, room number and unit. Some units, especially intensive care, don’t allow flowers, so it’s worth checking with the hospital first.
What to write on a sympathy card
Keep it simple and sincere. A few ideas:
- “With deepest sympathy. Thinking of you and your family.”
- “Holding you close in our thoughts.”
- “In loving memory of a beautiful soul.”
- “We’re so sorry for your loss. We’re here for anything you need.”
- “Forever in our hearts.”
Sign with your full name, so the family knows who sent them. For more ideas, see what to write on a flower card.
We’re here to help
If you’d like something specific, perhaps the person’s favourite flower or colour, add a note for our florist or call or text us at (780) 271-4997. Same-day delivery is available when you order before 5 PM.
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Order before 5 PM for same-day delivery across Edmonton, or choose pickup. Secure online checkout.
