What to Do with Funeral Flowers
Losing a loved one is never easy, and attending a funeral can be a deeply emotional experience. Among the various tributes and expressions of condolences, funeral flowers are a common sight at these solemn events.
Flowers represent love, beauty, and the cycle of life, and they play an important role in honoring the deceased. But what happens to these flowers after the funeral?
In this article, we will explore different options for what to do with funeral flowers and how to preserve their beauty.
Taking flowers home and giving them to family and friends
One popular option is to take the funeral flowers home and give them to family and friends. This allows you to preserve the flowers and enjoy their beauty for a longer period of time.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure your funeral flowers last as long as possible:
1. Trim the stems: When you bring the flowers home, trim the stems at an angle.
This will help them absorb water more efficiently, ensuring they stay fresh for a longer period of time. 2.
Change the water regularly: To keep the flowers vibrant, change the water every couple of days. This will prevent bacteria from building up and extend their lifespan.
3. Remove wilted flowers: As soon as you notice any flowers wilting or dying, remove them from the arrangement.
This will prevent them from affecting the other flowers and compromising their longevity. 4.
Display the flowers in a cool location: Flowers last longer in cooler temperatures, so choose a spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will help them retain their beauty for a longer period of time.
Once you have enjoyed the funeral flowers for a while, you can consider sharing their beauty with your loved ones. Here are some ways to do so:
– Give individual flowers as a memento: Collect a few flowers from the arrangement and give them to family members or close friends.
This small gesture can bring comfort and serve as a cherished keepsake. – Create small flower arrangements: Use the flowers to create small bouquets or arrangements that you can give to family members and friends as a way to remember the deceased.
These can be placed in vases or floral foam for easy display.
Donating flowers and taking them to the gravesite
If you don’t wish to keep the funeral flowers, another option is to donate them or take them to the gravesite. Here’s how you can do that:
1.
Contact local organizations: Reach out to local nursing homes, hospitals, or hospices to see if they accept donations of funeral flowers. Many places welcome these gestures, as they can bring comfort and beauty to their residents.
2. Speak with the funeral director: Discuss the possibility of taking the flowers to the gravesite with the funeral director.
They can guide you on the proper procedures and offer suggestions on how to best present the flowers at the gravesite. When taking flowers to the gravesite, it’s important to consider the following:
– Check cemetery rules: Before taking flowers to the gravesite, ensure you are aware of any specific rules or regulations regarding flower placement.
Some cemeteries have restrictions or guidelines in place to maintain aesthetics and ensure the safety of visitors. – Consider weather conditions: Select flowers that are resilient to the local climate and weather conditions.
Some flowers may wither quickly under extreme temperatures or harsh sunlight, while others can withstand these conditions better.
How to Preserve Funeral Flowers
Preserving funeral flowers allows you to hold on to their beauty and honor the memories associated with the deceased. There are different methods you can use to preserve funeral flowers, and we will explore two popular ones: drying and pressing.
Drying funeral flowers
Drying flowers is a simple and effective method of preservation. Here’s how you can do it:
1.
Choose flowers to dry: Select flowers that are in good condition and at their peak bloom. Avoid flowers that are already wilting or showing signs of decay.
2. Remove excess foliage: Trim away any excess foliage from the stems, as this can promote mold growth during the drying process.
3. Hang the flowers upside down: Tie a piece of string or twine around the stems of the flowers and hang them upside down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area.
This allows the moisture to evaporate slowly, preserving the flowers’ colors and shapes. 4.
Let the water evaporate: It usually takes around two to three weeks for the flowers to fully dry. During this time, check on them regularly, ensuring they are drying evenly and not developing mold.
Pressing funeral flowers
Pressing flowers is an ancient method of preservation that involves pressing the flowers between absorbent paper to flatten and dry them. Here’s how you can press funeral flowers:
1.
Select flowers to press: Choose flowers that are relatively flat and not too bulky. Delicate flowers such as roses, daisies, or pansies work well for pressing.
2. Place the flowers between absorbent paper: Arrange the flowers between layers of absorbent paper, such as newspaper or blotting paper.
Make sure the flowers are not overlapping or touching each other. 3.
Press the flowers using a book press or iron: Apply pressure to the flowers by using a book press or a heavy object, such as an iron. Make sure the flowers are completely flat and secure between the layers of absorbent paper.
4. Allow the flowers to dry: Leave the flowers pressed for several weeks to allow them to fully dry.
Once dry, carefully remove them from the paper, and they are ready to be displayed or used for various crafts. Preserving funeral flowers allows you to hold on to their beauty and the memories they represent.
Whether you choose to dry or press them, these methods provide a way to honor the deceased and ensure their presence continues to be felt for years to come. In conclusion, funeral flowers hold a special place in our hearts, representing love, beauty, and remembrance.
Knowing what to do with funeral flowers is essential in preserving their beauty and allowing their presence to continue to be cherished. Whether you choose to take them home and give them to loved ones, donate them to bring comfort to others, or preserve them through drying or pressing, each option provides a way to honor the deceased and keep their memory alive.
Other Ways to Preserve Funeral Flowers
In addition to drying and pressing, there are several other methods you can use to preserve funeral flowers and extend their lifespan. Each method offers a unique way to honor the deceased and keep their memory alive.
Let’s explore some of these alternative preservation techniques.
Dipping in wax
One creative way to preserve funeral flowers is by dipping them in wax. This method creates a beautiful and long-lasting keepsake.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare the flowers: Choose flowers that are in good condition and remove any excess foliage.
2. Melt the wax: Use a double boiler or a microwave-safe container to melt paraffin wax or beeswax.
Make sure to follow the instructions provided with the wax for safe melting. 3.
Dip the flowers: Holding onto the stem, gently dip the flowers into the melted wax. Ensure that the flower is fully coated with wax but do not let it touch the bottom of the container.
4. Hang to dry: Allow the flowers to dry by hanging them upside down until the wax hardens completely.
This process usually takes a few hours.
Preserving in resin
Another popular method for preserving funeral flowers is by encasing them in resin. This technique creates a stunning and transparent keepsake.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare the flowers: Choose flowers that are relatively flat and in good condition.
Trim away excess foliage and ensure the flowers fit within your chosen mold. 2.
Mix the resin: Follow the instructions provided with your resin kit to prepare the resin mixture. This usually involves mixing a resin and hardener together.
3. Pour the resin: Pour a thin layer of resin into the bottom of your chosen mold.
Carefully arrange the flowers on top of the layer, ensuring they are evenly spaced. 4.
Add more resin: Pour the remaining resin mixture over the flowers, making sure they are fully submerged. Use a toothpick or a popsicle stick to remove any air bubbles that may have formed.
5. Let it cure: Follow the curing time specified by the resin manufacturer.
Usually, it takes around 24-48 hours for the resin to fully cure and harden.
Preserving in silica sand
Preserving funeral flowers in silica sand is another technique that allows you to retain their natural beauty. Silica sand is a moisture-absorbing material that helps preserve the flower’s shape and color.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Choose a container: Select a container with an airtight lid that is large enough to fit the flowers without crowding them.
2. Prepare the flowers: Remove any excess foliage and trim the stems.
Arrange the flowers in the container, making sure they are not touching the sides or each other. 3.
Cover with silica sand: Pour enough silica sand over the flowers to cover them completely. Make sure the flowers are well-supported and do not shift during the process.
4. Seal the container: Close the container tightly with the airtight lid to prevent moisture from entering.
Leave the flowers in the silica sand for several weeks to allow them to fully dry.
Using the microwave method
If you’re looking for a quick and convenient way to preserve funeral flowers, the microwave method might be the answer. This method utilizes the microwave’s power to remove moisture from the flowers.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Prepare the flowers: Select flowers that are at their peak bloom and remove any excess foliage.
2. Prepare the flowers for microwaving: Place the flowers between two sheets of microwave-safe paper towels or parchment paper.
Make sure the flowers are not overlapping. 3.
Microwave in short bursts: Place the flowers in the microwave and heat them in short intervals, around 30 seconds at a time. Check the flowers after each interval to prevent overheating or scorching.
4. Allow the flowers to cool: After microwaving, let the flowers cool completely before handling them.
This will prevent them from becoming fragile and susceptible to breakage.
Oven-drying funeral flowers
If you prefer to dry your funeral flowers using an oven, this method can produce great results. The controlled heat of the oven helps remove moisture from the flowers while retaining their shape and color.
Here’s how you can do it:
1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to a low temperature, around 180-200F (82-93C).
It’s important not to use a higher temperature, as it can cause the flowers to scorch or lose their color. 2.
Prepare the flowers: Select flowers that are in good condition and remove any excess foliage. Arrange the flowers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Place the flowers in the oven: Put the baking sheet with the flowers into the preheated oven.
Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow air circulation and moisture to escape. 4.
Monitor the flowers: Check on the flowers regularly to ensure they are drying evenly and not becoming too brittle. This process usually takes several hours to overnight, depending on the size and type of flowers.
Funeral Flower Keepsake Ideas
Once you have preserved the funeral flowers, there are myriad ways to use them as keepsakes and honor the memories of your loved ones. These creative ideas allow you to incorporate the preserved flowers into meaningful and personalized mementos.
Let’s explore some of these keepsake ideas:
Pressing and framing a funeral bouquet
Pressing a funeral bouquet and framing it creates a beautiful and sentimental piece of artwork. Arrange the pressed flowers between glass or acrylic sheets and frame them in a shadow box or a traditional photo frame.
Preserving in resin keepsakes
As mentioned earlier, preserving funeral flowers in resin creates stunning, transparent keepsakes. The preserved flowers can be encapsulated in resin and used to make various items such as paperweights, coasters, or jewelry pendants.
Preserving in memorial jewelry
Consider turning the funeral flowers into unique jewelry pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, or rings. The preserved flowers can be encased in resin or set in a metal frame to create wearable keepsakes that can be cherished forever.
Placing petals in a keepsake locket
Gathering a few petals or small flowers and placing them inside a locket can create a heartfelt keepsake. The miniaturized bouquet can be held close to your heart, serving as a comforting reminder of your loved one.
Making rose petal tea
If the funeral flowers include roses, you can turn their petals into fragrant, edible tea. Dry the petals thoroughly and store them in an airtight container.
Steep a few petals in hot water for a soothing cup of tea that carries the essence of your loved one’s memory.
Creating a dried memorial wreath
Using dried eucalyptus, dried flowers, and preserved funeral blooms, you can create a beautiful memorial wreath. Arrange the dried elements in a circular shape and attach them to a wire or wooden wreath base.
Hang the wreath in a place of honor, providing a lasting tribute.
Putting them into an heirloom pocket knife
If you have an heirloom pocket knife or a small, sentimental item, you can carefully preserve funeral flowers inside it. Place the flowers between protective layers or in a small compartment, ensuring they are secure and well-preserved.
Making potpourri
Preserving funeral flowers in potpourri allows you to create a fragrant and meaningful blend. Mix the dried flowers with aromatic herbs, essential oils, and spices such as cinnamon or cloves.
Place the potpourri in a decorative bowl or sachets, adding a touch of remembrance to any room.
Crafting into a memorial shadowbox
Create a memorial shadowbox by arranging the preserved funeral flowers, photographs, and other cherished mementos in a shallow display case. Add meaningful quotes, notes, or small keepsakes to create a personalized tribute to your loved one.
Putting them into a jar
For a simple yet elegant keepsake, place the preserved funeral flowers in a glass jar. This allows the colors and shapes of the flowers to be fully displayed.
You can add small tags with the name of the deceased and the date of the funeral for a personalized touch.
Laminating onto a bookmark
Preserve a few petals or small flowers by laminating them onto a bookmark. This creates a practical and sentimental keepsake that can be used daily while reading, serving as a reminder of your loved one.
Making flower paper
Transform funeral flowers into handmade paper by blending them with pulp or recycling old paper. Use a mold and deckle to create sheets of paper embedded with fragments of the preserved flowers.
This paper can be used for various crafts, such as cards or journaling.
Using in a memorial scrapbook or journal
Incorporate preserved funeral flowers into a memorial scrapbook or journal to create a lasting tribute. Include photographs, handwritten memories, and quotes alongside the preserved flowers to capture the essence of the departed individual.
Creating a keepsake box
Use a small wooden box or a decorative container to create a personalized keepsake box. Place the preserved funeral flowers inside, along with personal notes, mementos, or trinkets that hold special meaning.
This keepsake box can
Common Questions About Funeral Flowers
When it comes to funeral flowers, there are often questions that arise regarding beliefs, lifespan, and the types of flowers commonly brought to funerals. In this section, we will address some of these common questions to provide clarity and insight into funeral flower customs and practices.
Beliefs about bringing flowers home from a funeral
Bringing flowers home from a funeral is a common practice that allows mourners to hold onto the memory of the deceased and find comfort in their presence. However, there are some beliefs and superstitions associated with bringing funeral flowers home.
Let’s explore a few of these:
1. Bringing flowers from a funeral can invite death into the home: This superstition suggests that bringing flowers from a funeral into the home can symbolically bring death with them.
While this belief varies across cultures and individuals, it is important to recognize that grief and mourning are deeply personal experiences, and different people may interpret these customs differently. 2.
Flowers should not be given away: Some believe that once funeral flowers are brought home, they should not be given away or shared with others. This belief stems from the idea that the energy or spirit associated with the deceased is contained within the flowers.
Sharing them could be seen as dispersing that energy. However, this belief is subjective and may not be universally observed.
3. Flowers are a symbol of life and beauty: On the other hand, many people view funeral flowers as a representation of life and beauty amidst sorrow and loss.
Bringing them home serves as a reminder of the love and connection shared with the deceased. It can provide solace and comfort during the grieving process.
Ultimately, whether to bring funeral flowers home and how to handle them afterward is a personal decision. It is important to be mindful of cultural beliefs and individual preferences when navigating funeral flower customs.
Duration of funeral flowers’ lifespan
The lifespan of funeral flowers varies depending on several factors, including the type of flowers, care taken after the funeral, and environmental conditions. Typically, funeral flowers last anywhere from a few days to a week.
Here are some tips to help extend the lifespan of funeral flowers:
1. Trim the stems: When you receive the flowers, trim the stems at an angle.
This helps the flowers absorb water more efficiently, promoting longer-lasting blooms. 2.
Change the water regularly: To keep the flowers fresh, change the water every couple of days. This prevents bacteria from building up and ensures that the flowers receive proper hydration.
3. Remove wilted flowers: As soon as you notice any flowers wilting or dying, remove them from the arrangement.
This prevents them from affecting the other flowers and prolongs the lifespan of the remaining blooms. 4.
Display the flowers in a cool location: Flowers thrive in cooler temperatures, so choose a spot away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This helps prevent wilting and extends the lifespan of the flowers.
5. Consider floral food additives: Some floral food packets contain preservatives and nutrients that can help extend the life of cut flowers.
Follow the instructions provided with the flower arrangement to determine if using floral food is appropriate.
Types of flowers commonly brought to funerals
Funeral flower arrangements vary depending on cultural traditions, personal preferences, and the relationship to the deceased. However, certain flowers are commonly associated with funerals due to their symbolism and ability to convey messages of condolence.
Here are some popular funeral flower choices:
1. Lilies: Lilies are one of the most commonly used flowers in funeral arrangements.
They symbolize innocence, purity, and the restoration of the soul. White lilies, in particular, are often associated with funerals and convey a sense of peace and tranquility.
2. Roses: Roses are a timeless symbol of love and beauty, making them a popular choice for funeral flowers.
Red roses typically represent love and respect, while white roses symbolize purity and innocence. Yellow roses can convey friendship and warmth.
3. Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums, particularly white chrysanthemums, are commonly used in funeral arrangements.
In many cultures, they symbolize death, grief, and mourning. However, it’s important to note that cultural associations with chrysanthemums may vary.
4. Carnations: Carnations are often used in funeral bouquets due to their long-lasting nature and symbolism of love and affection.
White carnations represent purity, pink carnations symbolize remembrance, and red carnations convey admiration. 5.
Gladioli: Gladioli are tall and stately flowers that represent moral integrity and strength of character. They are often used in funeral arrangements to convey respect and offer condolences.
6. Larkspur: Larkspur, with its tall spires of delicate flowers, is commonly used in funeral wreaths and arrangements.
The flower symbolizes love, grace, and tranquility. 7.
Orchids: Orchids are associated with elegance, beauty, and heartfelt condolences. They are often used to convey deep sympathy and are available in a variety of colors, allowing for personalization of the arrangement.
It’s important to keep in mind that funeral flower choices are highly personal, and individuals may opt for flowers that hold special meaning to the deceased or the bereaved. When selecting funeral flowers, consider the preferences, cultural traditions, and symbolic meanings associated with the flowers to create a meaningful tribute.
In conclusion, funeral flowers carry deep symbolism and serve as a way to honor and remember the deceased. When it comes to these beautiful tributes, beliefs, lifespan, and flower choices are common topics of discussion.
Understanding the various beliefs about bringing funeral flowers home, the lifespan of these flowers, and the types commonly brought to funerals can help navigate funeral flower customs and ensure a meaningful and respectful tribute to the departed. Funeral flowers hold a special place in our hearts, representing love, beauty, and remembrance.
Knowing what to do with funeral flowers and how to preserve them allows us to honor the deceased and extend the lifespan of these meaningful tributes. Whether we choose to take the flowers home, donate them, or preserve them through drying, pressing, waxing, or other methods, each option provides a way to keep the memory of our loved ones alive.
Additionally, exploring creative keepsake ideas allows us to incorporate the preserved flowers into personalized mementos that serve as lasting reminders of the love shared. Funeral flowers, in their many forms, offer comfort and solace during times of grief, and their significance should be celebrated and cherished.
May these practices and ideas guide us in honoring our loved ones and finding solace in their memory.