Condolence Flowers & Gift Baskets

It is never easy comforting a relative, friend or associate who has lost a loved one. People are often uncertain as to the best way to show their sympathy. Adding to this uncertainty are changing trends in how Americans commemorate the death of a loved one. Services are simpler and shorter. Viewing periods are now typically limited to one day, if they occur at all. A greater number of cremations have resulted in shorter or no memorial services.

Flowers have traditionally been sent to the funeral home for display during the viewing and service. However, this does not mean that there should be no show of sympathy if no service is held. Grief therapists agree that the rituals surrounding death are an aid in the grieving process. In instances where there is no service, experts recommend sending condolences to the bereaved person or family's home.

Science as well as experts agrees that people find comfort and meaning in memorial or condolence flower arrangements. The bereaving often find condolence flowers and sympathy cards to the most meaningful gifts they can receive when sadness and pain seem to surround them.

Beautiful flowers have long been representative of the cycle of life and death. Because they can also symbolize hope, flowers serve to encourage the bereaved. Blossoms provide a simple diversion during memorial services when there may be few other positive influences.

As symbols of hope, happiness, and sorrow, flowers are an ideal medium of communication for times when you can't put your feelings into words. Though any gift of flowers will generally be appreciated immensely, there are some general guidelines and recommendations for choosing and sending sympathy flowers.

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