What to Do with Flowers from a Funeral: A Reflection on Life and Memory

When we attend a funeral, we often bring flowers as a symbol of our condolences and respect for the deceased. These flowers, though beautiful, carry with them a weight of emotion and memory. What to do with flowers from a funeral is not just a practical question but also a deeply personal one, touching on themes of grief, remembrance, and the passage of time.
1. Preserving the Memory: Drying and Pressing Flowers
One of the most traditional ways to handle funeral flowers is to dry or press them. This process allows the flowers to be preserved for years, serving as a tangible reminder of the loved one who has passed. Dried flowers can be placed in a shadow box, framed, or even incorporated into a piece of art. Pressed flowers can be used in scrapbooks or as bookmarks, offering a quiet, ongoing connection to the person who has died.
2. Creating a Memorial Garden
Another meaningful option is to use the flowers to start a memorial garden. Planting flowers from a funeral in a dedicated space can create a living tribute to the deceased. Over time, this garden can become a place of solace and reflection, where family and friends can gather to remember and honor their loved one. The act of tending to the garden can also be therapeutic, providing a sense of purpose and continuity.
3. Sharing the Flowers with Others
Funeral flowers can also be shared with others who may have been close to the deceased. Distributing the flowers among family members and friends allows everyone to take a piece of the memorial home with them. This act of sharing can help to spread the love and memories associated with the deceased, creating a collective sense of remembrance.
4. Composting: Returning to the Earth
For those who prefer a more natural approach, composting the flowers is a way to return them to the earth. This process symbolizes the cycle of life and death, as the flowers decompose and contribute to the growth of new life. Composting can be a deeply symbolic act, especially for those who find comfort in the idea of nature’s continuity.
5. Crafting Keepsakes
Funeral flowers can also be transformed into keepsakes. Petals can be used to make potpourri, or they can be incorporated into candles, soaps, or jewelry. These handmade items can serve as personal mementos, offering a way to keep the memory of the deceased close in a unique and creative way.
6. Donating to Hospitals or Nursing Homes
Another thoughtful option is to donate the flowers to a local hospital or nursing home. Many patients and residents in these facilities may not receive many visitors, and the presence of fresh flowers can bring a sense of joy and comfort. This act of kindness can also serve as a way to honor the deceased by spreading positivity and beauty to others.
7. Using Flowers in a Celebration of Life
If the family chooses to hold a celebration of life rather than a traditional funeral, the flowers can be used to decorate the venue. This can create a vibrant and uplifting atmosphere, reflecting the joy and love that the deceased brought into the lives of those around them. The flowers can then be given to attendees as a parting gift, allowing everyone to take a piece of the celebration home.
8. Incorporating Flowers into a Ritual or Ceremony
For those who find comfort in rituals, the flowers can be incorporated into a personal or family ceremony. This could involve scattering the petals in a meaningful location, such as a favorite park or body of water, or using the flowers in a symbolic gesture, such as lighting a candle or writing a letter to the deceased. These rituals can provide a sense of closure and help to process grief.
9. Photographing the Flowers
In the digital age, another way to preserve the memory of funeral flowers is through photography. Taking high-quality photos of the arrangements can create a lasting visual record that can be shared with others or kept as a personal keepsake. These photos can be printed and framed, or stored digitally for easy access.
10. Reflecting on the Meaning of the Flowers
Finally, it’s important to take time to reflect on the meaning of the flowers themselves. Each type of flower carries its own symbolism—roses for love, lilies for peace, daisies for innocence. Considering the specific flowers chosen for the funeral can offer insights into the personality and values of the deceased, and can serve as a starting point for deeper reflection on their life and legacy.
Related Q&A
Q: Can I use funeral flowers to make a wreath? A: Yes, funeral flowers can be used to create a wreath. This can be a beautiful way to honor the deceased and can be displayed in your home or at a memorial site.
Q: Is it appropriate to give funeral flowers to someone else? A: Yes, it is perfectly appropriate to give funeral flowers to someone else, especially if they were close to the deceased. This can be a meaningful way to share the memory and comfort each other.
Q: How long do funeral flowers typically last? A: The lifespan of funeral flowers can vary depending on the type of flower and how they are cared for. Generally, they can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Q: Can I plant funeral flowers in my garden? A: Yes, you can plant funeral flowers in your garden, especially if they are perennial varieties. This can create a lasting tribute to the deceased.
Q: What should I do if I receive too many funeral flowers? A: If you receive more flowers than you can manage, consider donating them to a local hospital, nursing home, or hospice. This can bring comfort to others and honor the memory of your loved one.
In conclusion, what to do with flowers from a funeral is a deeply personal decision that can take many forms. Whether you choose to preserve them, share them, or return them to the earth, the most important thing is that the act brings you comfort and helps you to honor the memory of your loved one.