Sympathy flowers can be a comforting sight for bereaved family members. If you’ve received news of a loved one’s death or a funeral in the Philippines, you may be thinking of purchasing an arrangement to express your condolences. Be sure that your gesture is seen as nothing but poignant and respectful, however. Here are 6 reminders for you to note down if you’re about to shop for sympathy flowers in the Philippines.

 

6 Reminders for Sending Sympathy Flowers

1. Don’t Disregard “In Lieu Of”

Did the obituary ask for a charitable donation in lieu of flowers? You can still send flowers as an additional gift, but remember to honor the given instructions, which might be based on the last wishes of the departed. Whether you ultimately buy sympathy flowers or not, be sure to donate to a charity in the Philippines as a sign of respect.

2. Choose an Appropriate Arrangement

In many countries including the Philippines, it’s common for immediate family members to buy the floral spray that sits atop the casket, while close friends and family buy gorgeous standing arrangements. If the deceased is an acquaintance or a relative of a friend, gift baskets and flowering plants are fitting sympathy gifts for their family. Vases may also be lovely, but some funeral homes may have restrictions on floral arrangements that may tip over and spill.

3. Use the Floral Enclosure Card

Flower arrangements often come with dainty little greeting cards. Don’t leave the card blank, but write a brief message inside to express your heartfelt sympathies.

This card is also handy for when you and a few more relatives or friends will be buying a single arrangement. If a ribbon is included with the flowers, it may only have space for “Our Deepest Condolences” and a name that describes the group, like if you’re all from one graduating class or Philippines-based organization. Write everyone’s names in the enclosure card so that the bereaved will still know who to thank.

4. Choose an Arrangement Your Loved One Would’ve Adored

Did the departed have a favorite flower or color? Or, is there a flower that reminds you of their personality? Find sympathy flowers that revolve around that. The arrangement should honor them. Make it even more meaningful by incorporating favorite song lyrics or quotes that you associate with the departed. You may even tell a beautiful story through the flowers you choose.

5. Sympathy Flowers Can Be Sent After the Funeral

Found out about the death after the interment? No worries. You can still send sympathy flowers after the funeral, although they’ll be delivered to the home of the deceased instead. It’s a thoughtful gesture that tells the bereaved family that they haven’t been forgotten. After all, mourning does not end at the burial.

6. Don’t Be Shy to Ask Questions

Not sure if flowers are appropriate, on the basis of faith, views, or traditions? Feel free to ask close family members of the departed. This way, you’ll be sure of what you can and can’t do as a gesture of sympathy. At the very least, the family will appreciate your intent, as well as how you went out of your way to ask your question.

TIP: Red flowers often aren’t appropriate for sympathy arrangements in the Philippines, which is influenced by Chinese culture. Save the crimson roses for inaugurations or birthdays, and go for white or yellow blooms instead.

 

ALSO READ: 9 Popular Flowers for All Souls’ Day

 

Sympathy flowers are a gracious way to deliver your condolences. Remember these 5 points when you order a funeral arrangement, and you’ll bring great comfort to the loved ones of the deceased.

Ensure the freshness of your chosen blooms by ordering from Flower Patch. You can also avail of prompt and professional sympathy flower delivery in the Philippines, which you can enjoy for free if you’re sending the flowers within Metro Manila. Contact us today to find out more.

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