Selecting Funeral Flowers, A Simple Guide to UK Funeral Arrangements
On this page…
Introduction to Funeral Flowers
Choosing funeral flowers can feel overwhelming at an already emotional time. Flowers are a powerful way to express love, sympathy and remembrance. Whether you are arranging a traditional service, selecting sympathy flowers to send to a family, or planning celebration of life flowers, this guide explains your options clearly and simply.
At AB Walker Funeral Directors, we are always here to guide you through every detail of arranging a funeral, including selecting the right floral tribute. You can find further information on our website here:
https://www.abwalker.co.uk/arranging-a-funeral/planning-the-service/funeral-flowers/
We also work closely with our trusted local partner, Sonning Flowers, who provide beautiful bespoke tributes:
https://www.sonningflowers.com/funerals-sympathy-flowers/
What Are Traditional Funeral Flower Arrangements in the UK?
Traditional funeral flower arrangements in the UK are usually formal tributes displayed on or around the coffin during the service.
Common Traditional Arrangements
Coffin Spray
A coffin spray sits on top of the coffin and is usually chosen by immediate family. It can be:
- Single ended (tapered at one end)
- Double ended (symmetrical at both ends)
These are often the largest and most central floral tribute.
Wreaths
Circular in shape, wreaths symbolise eternity and everlasting life. Funeral flower wreaths are one of the most popular choices for extended family, friends and colleagues.
Posies and Baskets
Smaller and more compact, posies and baskets are often sent as sympathy flowers when attending the funeral or sent directly to the family home.
Letter Tributes
Floral letters spelling out words such as “Mum”, “Dad”, “Nan” or a full name are very traditional in the UK.
Crosses and Hearts
These shapes may reflect religious faith or deep affection and are frequently chosen for traditional church services.
What Are the Most Popular Types of Funeral Flowers in the UK?
When choosing funeral flowers, many families select blooms that carry symbolic meaning.
Lilies
White lilies are one of the most traditional remembrance flowers. They symbolise peace, purity and the restored innocence of the soul.
Roses
Roses are versatile and deeply symbolic:
- Red, love and respect
- White, reverence and remembrance
- Pink, gratitude
- Yellow, friendship
Carnations
Long lasting and widely used in funeral flower arrangements, carnations symbolise devotion and remembrance.
Chrysanthemums
In the UK, chrysanthemums are strongly associated with funerals and sympathy flowers. They symbolise honour and respect.
Seasonal and Personal Choices
Increasingly, families are moving towards celebration of life flowers that reflect personality rather than tradition. Sunflowers, wildflowers, garden blooms or even football themed tributes are becoming more common.
At AB Walker, we support both traditional and personalised approaches, helping you create something meaningful and appropriate.
Seasonal and Personal Choices
Increasingly, families are moving towards celebration of life flowers that reflect personality rather than tradition. Sunflowers, wildflowers, garden blooms or even football themed tributes are becoming more common.
At AB Walker, we support both traditional and personalised approaches, helping you create something meaningful and appropriate.
Colour Choices, What Do They Mean?
Colour plays an important role when choosing funeral flowers.
- White – peace, purity, simplicity
- Red – love, courage, deep respect
- Pink – gentleness and appreciation
- Purple – dignity and admiration
- Blue – calm and serenity
- Yellow – warmth and friendship
For a celebration of life service, brighter colours are often encouraged to reflect a vibrant personality. For a traditional church service, softer palettes are usually preferred.
There is no strict rule. The right choice is the one that feels meaningful to you and your family.
How Much Do Funeral Flower Wreaths Typically Cost in the UK?
Costs vary depending on size, flower type and complexity of design.
As a general guide in the UK:
- Small wreaths, £40 to £70
- Medium wreaths, £70 to £120
- Large wreaths, £120 to £200 or more
- Coffin sprays, £150 to £350 depending on size and flower choice
- Letter tributes, often £40 to £60 per letter
Premium flowers such as orchids or out of season blooms may increase the price.
Working with an experienced florist like Sonning Flowers ensures you receive guidance on design and budget, while creating something beautiful and appropriate.
Can You Have Artificial Flowers at a Funeral?
Yes, artificial flowers are perfectly acceptable at a funeral.
Some families choose artificial remembrance flowers because:
- They last long term at a graveside
- They can be kept as a keepsake
- They are less affected by weather
- They may be more cost effective
However, some crematoria and natural burial grounds may have restrictions on non biodegradable materials. It is always best to check in advance. At AB Walker, we can advise you on what is permitted at your chosen venue.
Types of Funeral Flowers Explained
When choosing funeral flower arrangements, you may consider:
Family Tributes
- Coffin sprays
- Bespoke shaped designs
- Personalised colour schemes
Sympathy Flowers Sent to the Home
- Hand tied bouquets
- Vase arrangements
- Flower baskets
These are often sent before or after the funeral as sympathy flowers to show support.
Celebration of Life Flowers
- Bright mixed arrangements
- Themed tributes reflecting hobbies
- Garden style arrangements
- Loose flowers for guests to place during the service
Graveside and Memorial Flowers
- Wreaths
- Artificial arrangements
- Seasonal planters
- Remembrance posies
Flowers can also be coordinated with service sheets, venue décor and colour themes. If you are arranging a funeral with us, you may also find helpful guidance here:
https://www.abwalker.co.uk/arranging-a-funeral/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are traditional funeral flower arrangements in the UK?
Traditional arrangements include coffin sprays, wreaths, crosses, hearts and letter tributes. White flowers are most commonly used, particularly lilies and chrysanthemums.
What are the most popular types of funeral flowers in the UK?
Lilies, roses, carnations and chrysanthemums are the most popular. Many families now also choose personalised or seasonal flowers.
How much do funeral flower wreaths cost in the UK?
Typically, between £40 and £200 depending on size and flower selection.
Can you have artificial flowers at a funeral?
Yes, although some venues may have environmental guidelines. Always check first.
Who chooses the coffin spray?
Usually, immediate family members select the coffin spray as the main tribute.
Choosing Funeral Flowers
Choosing funeral flowers is a deeply personal decision. Whether you prefer traditional funeral flower arrangements, simple sympathy flowers, elegant remembrance flowers or colourful celebration of life flowers, there is no right or wrong choice.
The most important thing is that the flowers reflect love, respect and the personality of the person being remembered.
If you would like guidance, our team at AB Walker Funeral Directors are here to help. We can advise on appropriate arrangements, colour choices and budgets, and connect you with trusted local florists.
Please talk to us at AB Walker. Call us, email us, or visit one of our branches to discuss your wishes. We are here to support you every step of the way.
You can contact us 24/7
Email or call us with your questions, queries and requirements. For urgent assistance, call us on 0118 957 3650 24 hours a day, seven days a week.