What to Do with Funeral Flowers: A Guide to Honoring Memories and Embracing Life

Funeral flowers are a beautiful and traditional way to express sympathy, love, and respect for the deceased. However, once the funeral or memorial service is over, many people are left wondering what to do with these floral arrangements. While it may seem like a small detail, the way you handle funeral flowers can be a meaningful part of the grieving process. In this article, we will explore various options for what to do with funeral flowers, offering both practical and sentimental suggestions.

1. Preserve the Flowers

One of the most popular ways to honor the memory of a loved one is by preserving the funeral flowers. This can be done in several ways:

Drying the Flowers: You can air-dry the flowers by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark place. Once dried, they can be used in a variety of ways, such as creating a memorial wreath or placing them in a shadow box.
Pressing the Flowers: Pressing flowers is another method of preservation. Place the flowers between the pages of a heavy book or use a flower press. Pressed flowers can be framed, used in scrapbooks, or even incorporated into jewelry.
Resin Preservation: For a more modern approach, consider preserving the flowers in resin. This method allows you to create keepsakes like paperweights, coasters, or even jewelry that can be cherished for years to come.

2. Create a Memorial Garden

If you have a garden or outdoor space, consider using the funeral flowers to create a memorial garden. Planting the flowers or scattering their petals in a designated area can serve as a living tribute to your loved one. You can also add a bench, plaque, or other decorative elements to make the space more personal and reflective.

3. Donate the Flowers

Another thoughtful option is to donate the funeral flowers to a local hospital, nursing home, or hospice care facility. Many people in these settings appreciate the beauty and comfort that fresh flowers can bring. Be sure to check with the facility beforehand to ensure they accept flower donations and to understand any specific guidelines they may have.

If you received multiple floral arrangements, consider sharing them with family and friends. This can be a meaningful way to spread the love and memories associated with the deceased. You can divide the flowers into smaller bouquets and distribute them to those who attended the funeral or who were close to the loved one.

5. Compost the Flowers

For those who are environmentally conscious, composting the funeral flowers is a practical and eco-friendly option. Composting allows the flowers to return to the earth, contributing to the cycle of life. This can be a symbolic way to honor the deceased, as the flowers become part of the natural world.

6. Use the Flowers in Art or Craft Projects

If you’re creatively inclined, consider using the funeral flowers in art or craft projects. You can create a memorial collage, a piece of floral art, or even use the petals to make homemade paper. These projects can serve as a therapeutic way to process grief and create something beautiful in memory of your loved one.

7. Keep a Single Flower as a Memento

Sometimes, keeping a single flower from the arrangement can be a simple yet powerful way to remember the deceased. You can press or dry the flower and keep it in a special place, such as a memory box or a framed photo. This small token can serve as a daily reminder of the love and memories you shared.

8. Hold a Flower Release Ceremony

A flower release ceremony can be a beautiful and symbolic way to say goodbye. You can gather family and friends to release the flowers into a body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. This act can symbolize letting go and allowing the spirit of the deceased to move on peacefully.

9. Use the Flowers in a Celebration of Life

If you’re planning a celebration of life event, consider incorporating the funeral flowers into the decor. This can be a way to honor the deceased while also celebrating the joy and love they brought into the world. The flowers can be used as centerpieces, in photo displays, or even as part of a memory table.

10. Reflect and Meditate

Finally, take some time to reflect and meditate with the flowers. Sit with them, appreciate their beauty, and allow yourself to feel the emotions that come with grief. This quiet time can be a powerful way to connect with your feelings and find peace in the midst of loss.

Q: Can I keep funeral flowers fresh for a longer period? A: Yes, you can keep funeral flowers fresh by changing the water daily, trimming the stems, and keeping them in a cool place. Using flower preservatives can also help extend their lifespan.

Q: Are there any flowers that are particularly meaningful for funerals? A: Lilies, roses, and chrysanthemums are commonly associated with funerals and can carry deep symbolic meanings. However, the choice of flowers is often personal and can vary based on cultural or individual preferences.

Q: What should I do if I receive too many floral arrangements? A: If you receive more flowers than you can manage, consider sharing them with others, donating them to a local facility, or composting them. You can also preserve a few flowers as keepsakes and let the rest go in a way that feels meaningful to you.

Q: Is it appropriate to send funeral flowers to someone’s home after the service? A: Yes, sending flowers to someone’s home after the service can be a thoughtful gesture. It shows that you’re thinking of them during their time of grief and can provide comfort in the days and weeks following the funeral.

Q: How can I involve children in the process of handling funeral flowers? A: Involving children in activities like pressing flowers, creating a memorial garden, or participating in a flower release ceremony can help them process their emotions and feel connected to the memory of the deceased.