How to Choose Modern Funeral Flowers UK

Being in a position where you have to choose funeral flowers is a difficult time for anyone, and the number of options can seem overwhelming. In the past, flower arrangements were very formal, but modern funeral flowers are often simple and personal.

Often, people worry about getting it ‘right’, but in truth, funeral flowers are more about gestures of respect and love. Modern funeral flowers in the UK are moving away from the traditional symmetrical arrangement and becoming more natural, with a key focus on making something personal and meaningful. 

We're going to go through all the things you need to consider when picking modern funeral flowers. 

Photographer: Lucy Harpur Gold @lucygold Florist

What Are ‘Modern’ Funeral Flowers

Traditionally, funeral flowers have followed strict rules, coming in the form of large wreaths or formal sprays. In more modern interpretations, funeral flowers tend to focus on celebrating life, rather than a strict set of criteria.  

The design tends to be looser, rather than tightly packed flowers, with a greater emphasis on seasonality. Structural pieces like wreaths are no longer as common; organic shapes and incorporating personal items are becoming the norm, rather than rigid symmetry.

Typically, flowers have specific meanings, but nowadays families are prioritising personality rather than overall meaning. The chosen flower's colour often reflects the personality of the individual, and it's becoming more common to see bright colourful flowers as a celebration of life, instead of sombre mourning. 

Environmental impact has seen a rise in more seasonal flowers, and living plant is an alternative to cut ones. In addition, foam was used in flower arrangements, but due to the environmental damage it causes, this has become less common. 

Photographer: Lucy Harpur Gold @lucygold Florist

Things to Consider When Choosing Funeral Flowers

Your Relationship

Immediate family tends to be responsible for the main tribute, such as the casket spray. 

Friends and extended family will usually send something like wreaths, hand-tied bouquets, or sheaves. Colleagues, on the other hand, may choose something understated and small, like a posy or a nosegay. 

As a general rule, the closer the relationship, the more personal the flower tribute should be. Thoughtfulness is what counts, not a size competition. 

Family’s Requests

There may be criteria requested by the family. Often this will be listed on the funeral notice. 

Most funerals don't prohibit bringing flowers, although occasionally the funeral notice may say ‘family flowers only’. There may also be a preference for donations only. 

Another important thing to keep in mind is the family's culture or religion. This may also play a part in your choice of flowers. For example, Islamic and Jewish funerals don't consider flowers to be traditional. 

Islamic funerals often prefer donations made in the deceased's name, and the Jewish faith is centred around modesty, so a floral arrangement would be out of place. Often, this will be on the funeral notice, but it is worth bearing in mind. 

Delivery

Most often, flowers should be delivered directly to the funeral director or the funeral home. Ensure that labelling is clear to avoid any confusion. Additionally, it is a good idea to confirm delivery cut-off times when ordering your arrangement.

Choosing Flowers That Feel Personal

It sounds obvious, but someone's favourite flowers are a perfect choice for a funeral arrangement. Did they have some flowers in the garden when they were growing up? Is there a certain story that you can recall them having a specific kind of flower? These personal connections can make a big difference.

Think about the person's personality and what flowers may pair well with it. Choose soft pastels for gentle personalities. Big, bright, bold and vibrant colours for energetic individuals. For an outdoors nature lover, wildflowers are a perfect choice. More tropical and vibrant flowers might work well for someone who is well-travelled. For someone who loved their garden, can you theme your arrangement around what they had in their back garden? Even going as far as choosing flowers for their favourite team's colours to give subtle meaning. 

With a more modern focus on sustainability, things like memorial trees are growing in popularity. Similarly, things like potted plants that can be replanted and enjoyed for years to come are a great option as a gift.

We provide all the traditional funeral arrangements, but we also have potted plants available.

Photographer: Lucy Harpur Gold @lucygold Florist

Best Funeral Flowers to Send

If you need some guidance on which flowers are for you, here are some general overviews of each flower and their meanings. Of course, this is all completely your choice and your situation. Take these as a very rough guide to help you make the right choice:

Lilies

Lilies are some of the most common flowers associated with funerals. They are often linked to peace, remembrance and purity; they work well for traditional and modern funerals. 

White lilies are most traditional, but they can come in other shades. Be warned, there is a strong fragrance associated with them, so they may not be appropriate for all occasions.

Roses

Roses have a timeless feel, and colour variations are common. They often represent love, remembrance and respect, making them suitable for the close family in modern funerals. They tend to be loose or hand-tied arrangements.

Chrysanthemums

Chrysanthemums are another very common flower; they are often linked with honour and remembrance. They come in a wide variety of colours, making them applicable to most situations.

Carnations

Carnations are affordable and long-lasting. They hold up well during transport and throughout a day of service. They work well in wreaths, sprays, and bouquets.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are popular in modern funerals. They're soft and have a natural garden-inspired look; they are associated with emotion and gratitude, making them appropriate as sympathy flowers. They're also a good choice for larger bouquets. 

Let us help you 

We hope this guide will help you find the right flowers for your loved one. With it being such a difficult period, sometimes what you actually need is a helping hand. 

Let us make choosing a meaningful send-off easy with our bespoke funeral flower arrangements.