The Definitive Guide to Funeral Sprays: Types, Meaning, and Etiquette

Understanding Funeral Sprays

Funeral sprays represent a final, powerful expression of sympathy and respect. As expert florists and funeral planners, we recognize that selecting the appropriate tribute requires understanding both the aesthetic function and the inherent symbolism of the arrangement. A funeral spray is distinct from other floral tributes due to its size, structure, and placement.

What is a Funeral Spray?

A funeral spray is a large, often fan-shaped or teardrop-shaped arrangement of fresh flowers designed to be displayed prominently during a wake, viewing, or funeral service. These arrangements are typically designed to be viewed from one side, maximizing the visual impact of the tribute.

The Difference Between Sprays and Wreaths

While both are common funeral tributes, their meaning and structure differ:

• Sprays: Focused, large arrangements (standing or casket) designed for visibility and tribute. They emphasize the beauty of the chosen flowers.
• Wreaths: Circular arrangements symbolizing eternity and eternal life, often used to enclose a significant item or photograph.

Types of Funeral Sprays and Their Meanings

There are two primary categories of funeral sprays, each serving a specific role within the funeral setting and adhering to distinct protocols regarding who provides them.

Standing Sprays (Easel Sprays)

Standing sprays are substantial floral arrangements designed to be displayed vertically on a wire easel. They are often placed near the casket or at the entrance of the viewing area. These are generally appropriate to be sent by friends, colleagues, extended family members, or corporate groups.

Key characteristics of Standing Sprays:

• They offer significant visual height and presence.
• They provide an impactful decorative element to the service location.
• They are easily transported to graveside services if necessary.

Casket Sprays (Casket Tributes)

The casket spray is arguably the most significant floral arrangement at any funeral service. It is a long, low-lying arrangement meticulously designed to drape elegantly across the top of a closed casket.

Crucial Etiquette Note: The casket spray is traditionally reserved exclusively for the immediate family—typically the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased. Sending a casket spray if you are not immediate family is considered inappropriate, as this arrangement is considered the family’s final gift.

Choosing the Right Funeral Spray

Selecting the flowers and colors requires thoughtful consideration of the deceased’s personality and the established symbolism within floral etiquette.

Appropriate Colors and Flowers

While white remains the classic choice for sympathy flowers—symbolizing peace, purity, and reverence—modern funeral sprays often incorporate color to reflect the life being celebrated. Consider these traditional meanings:

• Lilies: The traditional funeral flower, symbolizing the restored innocence of the soul.
• Red Roses: Deep, lasting love and respect. Often used minimally for impact.
• Pink Carnations: Remembrance. A universally accepted flower for funerals.
• Orchids: Eternal love and enduring beauty.
• Yellow Roses: When sent by friends, they symbolize strong ties and friendship.

Ordering and Delivery Considerations

As expert providers, we emphasize the need for precision when ordering funeral sprays to ensure they arrive fresh and on time. Always coordinate directly with the funeral home, providing them with the deceased’s name and the specific time and date of the viewing or service. This allows for smooth logistics and placement.

When writing the enclosure card, ensure the message is brief, sincere, and clearly indicates who the spray is from. If sending a standing spray, clarify the relation to the deceased (e.g., “The Smith Family,” or “Colleagues at XYZ Corp”).