 Guide
to Common Sympathy Flower Arrangements
Many people are unfamiliar with the terms used by florists for sympathy
arrangements. The Society of American Florists has provided the following
descriptions of the most commonly used terms:
Wreath
A floral presentation often used because a circle symbolizes eternal
life.
Spray
Sprays are delivered to the funeral home. Funeral flower sprays may be
ordered from a wide selection of flowers and themes, and are presented
on an easel during the service.
Floral Arrangement
A mix of fresh flowers displayed in a vase, basket or other container.
 Casket
Spray
Casket arrangements come in an assortment of sizes. The two most common
sizes are either full-length or half-length sizes. The full-length arrangement
extends over the full length of the closed casket lid. The half-length
arrangement covers the bottom half or the closed portion of the casket
during an open casket funeral. The family usually orders funeral flower
casket sprays.
Inside Piece
A general term to describe small floral designs placed inside the casket.
Examples include satin hearts, nosegays or small sprays.
Vase or Table Arrangement
Funeral flower arrangements sent to the bereaved family’s home
or taken home after the service. Choosing this type of arrangement can
reflect the deceased’s tastes, style or personality.
Flowers for an Infant or Child
These arrangements are usually smaller than regular funeral flower arrangements.
The color theme may be that of soft pastels or of bright sunny colors.
Funeral flower arrangements, sprays, bouquets, wreaths, angels and crosses
are considered appropriate.
Lid Arrangements
These can be small floral bouquets, corsages or other types of small
arrangements. These types of funeral flower arrangements are usually ordered
by the family and represent the children or grandchildren of the deceased.
 Sympathy
Gift Baskets
A sympathy gift basket usually contains flowers, plants, kosher, gourmet
or specialty foods and gifts are often appreciated by family and colleagues.
These types of baskets are delivered to the family residence or to the
office and not the funeral home.
Sympathy Card Enclosure
The Enclosure or Sympathy Card lists who gave or sent the flowers. On
the back of the card the florist may list the type of arrangement, along
with a description of the flowers, plant or sympathy basket.
Cemetery Bouquets
These are delivered to cemetery and placed on the grave. This is a lovely
way to offer tribute across the miles.
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