Flowers for Memorial Services: Types and How to Choose the Perfect Arrangement
When attending a memorial service, many people choose to honor the memory of the deceased by offering flowers. A heartfelt floral gift can express sentiments that words often cannot.
However, selecting the appropriate flowers while adhering to proper etiquette can feel overwhelming. This guide provides insights into choosing flowers for memorial services, ensuring they are both respectful and meaningful.
How to Choose Flowers for Memorial Services
The terms “memorial service” and “Buddhist memorial ceremony” (法要 or hōyō) are often used interchangeably. Both refer to events held to pray for the peace of the deceased’s soul, sometimes accompanied by a meal gathering.
The choice of flowers depends on the timing of the memorial service.
Before the 49th Day Memorial
In Buddhism, white flowers like chrysanthemums and lilies are traditional for memorials held before the 49th day after passing. Avoid using colorful flowers during this period.
For Annual Memorials
For services held years after the funeral, such as annual memorials, incorporating soft colors like pastels alongside white is generally acceptable.
Timing and Delivery Etiquette
If sending flowers to the family’s home, aim for delivery a day before the memorial service. If delivering on the same day, ensure the flowers arrive well in advance of the ceremony to avoid disrupting the family’s preparations.
If the service is at a temple, confirm with both the family and temple staff whether it is appropriate to send flowers. Provide clear instructions about their purpose as an offering for the memorial service.
When filling out the delivery form:
- Write the temple’s address and name in the address section.
- List the host’s (施主) name as the recipient.
- Include a message card expressing condolences and honoring the deceased.
Personalized Offerings: Flowers Loved by the Deceased
If the deceased had a favorite flower, incorporating it into the arrangement can add a deeply personal touch. However, some flowers may be considered inappropriate for Buddhist ceremonies. It’s best to consult the family beforehand to ensure the selection is suitable.
Observing Buddhist Floral Etiquette
Certain flowers are considered unsuitable for Buddhist memorial services, including those that:
- Have strong fragrances
- Are poisonous
- Have thorns
- Are associated with bad omens
For example, lily of the valley and hydrangeas are not recommended due to their toxicity.
Budget Guidelines
The cost of memorial flowers varies by occasion:
- Funerals: Approximately ¥10,000
- Annual memorials: Between ¥5,000 and ¥10,000
Popular Flowers for Memorial Services
Here are some of the most common and appropriate flowers for memorial offerings:
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are the quintessential flowers for Buddhist memorial services. They range from small, delicate varieties to larger, more ornate blooms, offering many options to suit your needs.
Lilies
Lilies are another popular choice. For memorials, choose varieties like Alstroemeria, which have a mild fragrance and minimal pollen.
Other Options
- Carnations
- Lisianthus (Eustoma)
- Statice
These flowers are vibrant yet free of thorns, making them suitable for memorial services.
Find the Perfect Memorial Flowers at Parterre in Iwate
Parterre offers a wide selection of flowers for memorial services, designed to meet your preferences and honor the occasion respectfully. With years of experience providing floral gifts for various ceremonies, we can help you find the ideal arrangement.
Our team is happy to assist with design suggestions and flower selection. Contact us via phone or our online inquiry form for personalized support.
Parterre Store Locations
- Kitakami Main Shop:
2-13-24 Tokiwadai, Kitakami City, Iwate Prefecture - Morioka Motomiya Shop:
1-2-3 Motomiya, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture - Oshu Esashi Shop (Fleur Marché):
7-2 Nishiodori, Esashi, Oshu City, Iwate Prefecture (Inside Super Sun-Ae)
Trust Parterre for thoughtful and beautifully arranged memorial flowers to express your condolences and honor your loved ones.
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