Though it’s a sad time, I’d prefer to send a bright, colorful arrangement.

Keep in mind that a sympathy arrangement doesn't necessarily have to be dark and somber. During this difficult time, you can help remind the family to celebrate the life that was lived. Flowers add fragrance, color and beauty to an otherwise somber atmosphere and provide a comforting diversion. An arrangement filled with springtime colors - pink, yellow and lavender are a lovely reminder of hope and rebirth.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

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How Grief Changes Over Time

I have combined two different grief theories to describe how I believe grief changes, or really doesn't change, over time.

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How do "sympathy flowers" differ from "funeral flowers"?

Sympathy flowers are addressed and sent directly to a loved one of the deceased.They are usually smaller floral arrangements that decorate end tables or can be used as a centerpiece in the family home.

Funeral flowers serve as a tribute to the deceased at the funeral service. Funeral flowers should never be sent to the home as they are too formal, large and inappropriate for a home or office and can be upsetting to the grieving family.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

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I would like to send a gift to the home that’s reverent and not too showy.

When it comes to expressing your condolences in a classic manner, nothing is more elegant than a mix of all-white flowers. White flowers have long represented humility and reverence, while also sending a message of loyalty.

Types of Sympathy Plants/Flowers and their Meaning.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

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If Tomorrow Starts Without Me (read by Tom O'Bedlam)

"If Tomorrow Starts Without Me" attributed to David Romano and read by Tom O'Bedlam.

Song by Mattia Cupelli

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I’d like to send a gift that will last longer than flowers.

While many of us think of flowers to express sympathy, plants are a perfectly lovely - and lasting - way to show you're thinking of them. A beautiful way to express your condolence and compassion, plants can be enjoyed for months to come.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

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What is a Shiva Call?

If the deceased was Jewish the immediate family will hold a "Shiva" in their home for seven days after the passing. It is customary for friends and coworkers to come by the home and pay their respects to the family, this is known as paying a Shiva call. Desserts, fruit and Kosher food baskets are traditionally taken to or sent to the home, however, flowers are not appropriate for a Shiva call.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

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Talking to children who are bereaved

Talking to children when they are about to be bereaved or have just experienced a death may feel daunting. Knowing how children of different ages may react can help. As a health or social care professional, there are many ways one can help families, friends, schools and communities do and say things before and after someone dies that can help children to cope with their loss. This NHS Education for Scotland video aims to enable professionals to facilitate such discussions through an enhanced understanding from the perspective of children who have been bereaved.

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Is it Ok to send a fruit or gourmet food basket?

In some cases, particularly in Jewish cultures, a fruit or gourmet basket is greatly appreciated by a family who is receiving out-of-town guests during the mourning period. This type of gift does double-duty, delivering your condolences while helping to care for and nurture family and friends.. Also, take a look at our Suggestions for Writing Card Messages page.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

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What is appropriate to send to the family?

A plant, food basket or small to mid-size designed sympathy arrangement are typically sent to the home of the surviving family members. Any number of floral arrangements are a welcome gesture, including centerpieces, or even a small teacup with flowers. Some choose a small garden of green plants, accented with a blooming plant for color.

Sympathy Flowers Etiquette

Flowers sent to the family are sympathy expressions of comfort, peace and hope. They say "I'm thinking of you." During times of sorrow, sympathy flowers are messengers of hope.

General Office (707) 425-4697

Fax (707) 425-7352

Website