The short answer: a wreath or standing spray goes to the service, a casket spray is usually chosen by the immediate family, and a sympathy bouquet or plant goes to the family home. White is the classic colour, but any colour that suited the person is welcome. Add a short, sincere card message.
We are a small Sydney florist and we design funeral and sympathy flowers every week. If you want to order now, see our funeral and sympathy flowers in Sydney.
Types of funeral flower arrangements
- Wreath: a circle, which symbolises eternity. Usually placed at the service or graveside.
- Standing spray or sheaf: tall designs that give presence at the chapel or crematorium.
- Casket spray: sits on top of the casket and is usually chosen by the immediate family.
- Sympathy bouquet or vase arrangement: sent to the funeral home or the family home, and easy to take home afterwards.
- Native or modern tribute: for someone who loved Australian flora or a less traditional look.
- Pet memorial: an everlasting keepsake for a much-loved animal.
Funeral flowers vs sympathy flowers
Funeral flowers go to the service: the chapel, church, crematorium or graveside. Sympathy flowers go to the family, usually at home, before or after the service. If you are not attending, or the family has asked for no flowers at the service, send a bouquet or a plant to the home instead. Browse both in our funeral and sympathy collection.
Colours and flowers that suit
- White: peace and remembrance, the most classic choice.
- Soft pastels: gentle and comforting.
- Red: deep love.
- Yellow: warmth and friendship.
- Australian natives: strength and connection to country.
Lilies, roses, orchids, chrysanthemums and carnations are the flowers most often chosen. Many families now pick a favourite colour or a football team's colours instead of all white.
Etiquette: timing, where to send, cultural notes
- Timing: order as soon as you know the service date and time. Give us the venue address and any access times.
- Funeral home or family home: check the notice. Many families ask for flowers to go straight to the funeral home, and some prefer a donation instead.
- Cultural notes: traditions differ. White flowers are common in many Christian, Buddhist and Chinese services, while some families prefer no flowers or specific types. If you are unsure, ask the family or the funeral director before you order.
- Contact details: give a name and phone number so the driver can reach someone on the day.
What to write on the card
Keep it short and sincere. A few examples:
- With deepest sympathy.
- Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time.
- In loving memory of [name].
- With love and heartfelt condolences.
- Forever in our hearts.
- Wishing you peace and comfort.
- With love from all of us at [workplace or group].
- [Name] will be remembered with great fondness.
Add a sympathy greeting card or see our greeting cards.
What it costs and delivery
Prices depend on the size and design, so see the current prices on each product in the collection. Courier delivery is $22 to $65 depending on your zone, and free in Northbridge. We deliver Monday to Saturday across Sydney, and the same-day cut-off is 12:30pm Sydney time. We do not deliver on Sundays or public holidays.
Funeral flowers FAQ
What is a good floral arrangement for a funeral?
A wreath or standing spray suits the service, and a sympathy bouquet or plant suits the family home. White flowers are the classic choice, but a favourite colour or Australian natives work well too.
What is the etiquette for funeral flower arrangements?
Check the notice for where to send flowers, order as soon as you know the service details, and keep the card short and sincere. If the family asks for no flowers, respect that and consider a donation or a card.
What is the most popular flower for funerals?
Lilies, roses, chrysanthemums, carnations and orchids are the flowers most often chosen. Each carries a different meaning, so choose what feels right for the person.
Next steps
Ready to order? See our funeral and sympathy flowers in Sydney. We are a small team and happy to help with any question, big or small.
