Funeral Flower Glossary
A comprehensive guide to funeral flower terms, arrangement types, and etiquette. Understanding these terms can help you choose the most appropriate tribute when honouring a loved one in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire.
C
Carnation
Carnations represent love, fascination, and distinction. They are a long-lasting, affordable flower frequently used in funeral arrangements.
Casket Spray
A large, elegant arrangement designed to rest on top of the coffin during a funeral service. Casket sprays are typically the centrepiece tribute from immediate family.
Celebration of Life
A memorial event focused on celebrating the deceased's life rather than mourning their death. Flowers for these events are often bright and personalised.
Chapel of Rest
A quiet, dedicated room at a funeral home where the deceased rests before the funeral. Family members may visit to pay their private respects.
Chrysanthemum
A flower symbolising honour, loyalty, and devoted love. Chrysanthemums are widely used as the foundation flower in many traditional funeral tributes.
Condolence
An expression of sympathy and sorrow for someone who has experienced a bereavement. Sending flowers is one of the most traditional forms of offering condolence.
Cross Tribute
A cross-shaped floral arrangement often chosen for those of Christian faith. Cross tributes offer a dignified expression of faith and remembrance.
Cushion
A square or rectangular floral tribute similar to a pillow, symbolising eternal rest. Cushion arrangements offer a structured, formal tribute option.
F
Freesia
Delicate, sweetly scented flowers symbolising innocence, trust, and thoughtfulness. Freesias add fragrance and texture to funeral arrangements.
Funeral Director
A professional who manages all aspects of funeral arrangements, including coordinating with florists for flower deliveries and display at the service.
G
Gerbera
Bright, cheerful flowers that represent innocence and purity. Gerberas are often chosen for celebrations of life and less formal funeral tributes.
Gypsophila
Also known as baby's breath, gypsophila symbolises everlasting love and innocence. It is widely used as a delicate filler in funeral arrangements.
I
In Lieu of Flowers
A request by the bereaved family that mourners make a charitable donation instead of sending funeral flowers. This wish should always be respected.
Iris
Irises symbolise faith, hope, and wisdom. Their distinctive shape and deep blue-purple colour make them a striking addition to funeral arrangements.
L
Letter Arrangement
A bespoke floral tribute where individual letters are crafted from flowers to spell out a name, word, or message. A deeply personal way to honour someone.
Lily
One of the most iconic funeral flowers, lilies symbolise the restored innocence of the soul after death. White lilies are a classic choice for funeral tributes.
O
Orchid
Exotic flowers representing eternal love, luxury, and strength. Orchids bring elegance and sophistication to funeral tributes.
Order of Service
A printed booklet given to attendees at a funeral, outlining the sequence of events. It may include information about floral tributes and donation requests.
P
Pillow
A cushion-shaped floral tribute symbolising rest and peace. Pillow arrangements are a tender choice, often selected by close family members.
Posy
A compact, rounded arrangement of flowers, often hand-tied. Posies are a gentle, understated tribute suitable for expressing quiet sympathy.
S
Sheaf
A hand-tied bouquet of flowers presented in a natural, gathered style. Sheaves offer a beautiful, less formal alternative to structured funeral designs.
Spray
A flat-backed, single-sided floral arrangement designed to be displayed against a surface or on a stand. Sprays are a popular and versatile funeral tribute.
Sunflower
Bright, joyful flowers symbolising adoration, loyalty, and warmth. Sunflowers are a popular choice for celebrations of life.
Sympathy Flowers
Flowers sent to express condolences and support to the bereaved. Sympathy flowers may be sent to the funeral, the family home, or the funeral home.
Need Help Choosing the Right Tribute?
Our experienced florists can guide you through the options and help you choose a meaningful tribute for your loved one.