Flowers for funerals: Where to deliver in France?

When words are insufficient to express an emotion, flowers can provide a source of comfort. We'll explain everything and guide you in choosing funeral flowers for personalized condolences.

Why offer flowers at a funeral?

Flowers represent your support for a grieving family, and they demonstrate the affection you had for the deceased. In difficult times, such as the loss of a loved one, flowers express felt emotions and help convey messages to the family.

While their aesthetic appeal is often the main factor considered, the origin of flowers offered at a funeral is primarily for their scent. Back in Roman times, flowers were used to mask the smell of decomposition, a source of contagious diseases, as embalming was not yet mastered.

Not all religious denominations require the presence of flowers during ceremonies. This is the case for Jewish and Muslim religions. At Jewish funerals, it is preferable to offer a candle or a financial contribution to the community as a sign of support. In Islam, where prayers take precedence over flowers, showing your support for the family at a Muslim funeral is best done by offering a moment of reflection at the graveside rather than flowers.

In Christian religions, flowers are very common. Offering them before, during, or after the service remains a highly appreciated gesture. However, maintain some simplicity for Protestant and Orthodox ceremonies.

Flowers are also highly valued in Hindu and Buddhist religions. You can consult our dedicated guide on choosing flowers according to different religions.

What is the meaning of each variety, color, and composition?

To understand the meanings of different varieties, colors, and compositions of flowers, consult our Flowers and Grief guide.

Where to have flowers delivered for a funeral?

It is possible to have your flowers delivered to different locations and at various stages of grieving. Take note of any instructions the deceased's family may have expressed for the flowers. Some families prefer to specify the place and time of delivery clearly. Also, each denomination has its relationship with flowers, so be sure to learn about religious customs before showing your support with flowers.

At the religious ceremony

During religious ceremonies, flowers are customary because they are held in respectful silence. They, therefore, deeply express the feelings of the congregation and bring a touch of comfort in an atmosphere of intense piety.

At the funeral home

The funeral home or crematorium are places of contemplation where flowers are particularly suited to the overall atmosphere.

At home

If an address is provided in the death notice, flowers can be delivered there, most commonly in the weeks following the death. When the funeral involves a presentation of the body at home, flowers add a touch of comfort to the room where the body is on display (for up to 6 days of presentation).

More occasionally, sending flowers to the family's home can show support at any time, whether the death occurred a few weeks ago or for an annual commemoration (All Saints' Day, anniversary of the death).

At the cemetery

When the funeral continues, and the procession must travel to the burial site, funeral staff transport the flowers that were delivered to the previous location (place of worship, crematorium, funeral home, etc.) along with the body or urn. So, consider choosing durable flowers and a sturdy composition for transportation.

Direct delivery to the cemetery is appropriate when there has been no religious ceremony. Make sure to provide the exact location and time to the company carrying out the delivery.

After the emotion of the ceremony and the burial or cremation, the deceased's entourage usually wishes to reflect at the grave, with flowers providing support during this solemn moment.

Finally, it is customary to provide your contact information so the family can identify you and send their thanks. Do not hesitate to personalize your delivery with the message you would like to convey to the family. Although flowers are there to express your feelings, a few words will complete your message.