What to Do With Flowers From a Funeral: A Guide to Respectful Remembrance
Receiving flowers after a funeral is a poignant gesture of sympathy and remembrance. But what do you do with these beautiful, yet often overwhelming, arrangements once the service is over? Dealing with funeral flowers requires sensitivity and respect, acknowledging both the emotional weight and the practicalities involved. This guide will help you navigate this delicate process, offering options that honor the deceased while fitting your personal preferences.
What are the common etiquette rules surrounding funeral flowers?
Funeral flowers are traditionally displayed at the service and then taken home by family members or close friends. There isn't a strict rule dictating what happens afterward, but generally, keeping them for a short period to enjoy their beauty is considered appropriate. Discarding them immediately after the service might appear disrespectful to some, while leaving them indefinitely could also seem unusual. The most important aspect is handling them with the respect they deserve, given their association with a time of grief and remembrance.
Can you keep the funeral flowers?
Absolutely! Many find comfort in keeping the funeral flowers for a period. The sight and scent can offer a tangible link to the deceased and provide a gentle reminder of their life. Keeping them allows for a continued sense of connection and mourning. However, be mindful of their lifespan; they will eventually wilt.
What should you do with the flowers after a few days?
Once the flowers begin to wilt, you have several thoughtful options:
-
Composting: This is an eco-friendly and respectful choice. Composting turns the flowers back into the earth, symbolizing a return to nature and the cycle of life. Many municipal composting programs readily accept flower waste.
-
Disposal: While seemingly simple, remember to dispose of the flowers respectfully. If you are unable to compost, wrapping the flowers in newspaper and placing them in your regular trash is acceptable.
-
Pressing Flowers: For particularly meaningful blooms, consider pressing them to create a lasting memento. This method preserves the flowers in a more permanent state, allowing you to keep a small, cherished piece as a reminder.
-
Donation to a Hospital or Hospice: Some hospitals and hospices welcome donations of fresh flowers to brighten the rooms of patients. If the flowers are still relatively fresh and vibrant, this is a wonderful way to bring joy to others. (Always check with the facility first to ensure they accept floral donations.)
What if the flowers are too many to manage?
If you've received a large number of funeral flowers, don't hesitate to share them. Offer bouquets to family members, friends, or neighbors who might appreciate a small piece of this heartfelt tribute. This also shares the sentiments of the sender(s) and extends the beauty and remembrance to others.
Is it okay to throw away funeral flowers?
While less emotionally resonant than other options, simply discarding funeral flowers is permissible if other options aren't feasible. The main point is handling them with respect, as mentioned earlier. Avoid simply tossing them in a public space; dispose of them properly according to your local waste disposal guidelines.
Ultimately, the decision on what to do with funeral flowers is deeply personal. Consider the symbolism of the flowers, your relationship with the deceased, and the emotional impact of each option. There is no single "right" answer; choosing a method that feels appropriate and respectful to both the deceased and your own grieving process is paramount.
