When it comes to offering up flowers after a person has passed, there are subtle differences between a man’s funeral arrangement and a woman’s funeral arrangement. Though flowers have a traditionally feminine association, in reality, floral arrangements are a beautiful way to express sympathy regardless of whether the deceased was a man or a woman. They can add warmth and light to a space and are a visual reminder that family members and friends are there to provide support.
Choosing an Arrangement for a Man
When you are trying to select a floral arrangement to honor the life of a man who has passed away, you have options that contain a more masculine motif in both the type and color of flowers that are featured in the display. A viable option for a funeral flower arrangement for a male features a simple standing spray with just a few color variations, including red or white. A simple yet elegant display is the perfect choice to honor the life of the man.
Common types of flowers that are used in an arrangement for a male’s funeral include:
- Red roses
- Orange roses
- White roses
- Blue roses
- Yellow roses
- Chrysanthemums (symbolize grief, appear in masculine tones)
- Carnations (avoid yellow, which symbolizes disappointment)
Choosing an Arrangement for a Woman
To express your sympathies over the death of someone’s mother, wife, or daughter, consider selecting a floral arrangement that comes in pastel or more feminine shades. An arrangement for a woman who has passed tends to be more stylized in design and may use flowers like roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations. Shades that work well for a female arrangement include pink, lavender, and yellow.
Though offering flowers after the death of a loved one is a very traditional act, the arrangement you provide does not need to feel stuffy or outdated. There are plenty of ways to modernize an arrangement using contemporary styles, designs, and ideas. These arrangements are often viewed as a form of temporary modern art.
Religious and Cultural Considerations
While flowers can be a beautiful way to honor a person who has passed, it is important to make sure that proper etiquette allows for such an arrangement to be delivered without offending. For example, in some religions, floral arrangements are not allowed.
Note:
- Orthodox Judaism: No flowers in houses of worship.
- Protestant Faith: Typically only one floral arrangement is permitted inside the worship space. It's advisable not to send arrangements to the house of worship directly.
When you understand the protocol for that particular religion, you can offer a kind gift without inadvertently offending anyone.