Expressing Sympathy

The natural beauty of flowers at a funeral or at the home of the mourners brings a sense of warmth and comfort to the bereaved.  Sending flowers are one way to express your love and respect for the deceased and concern for the family members.  Quite often we are asked what is appropriate to send to a funeral.  Standing sprays, flower baskets, individual plants and garden plant baskets are all appropriate.  Sprays and flower baskets can be customized using the deceased's favorite colors or flowers.

Sending flowers to the family's home is a common trend and a thoughtful way to express your sympathy.  Some people send flowers to the home immediately, while others prefer to wait a week or more.  Gift baskets filled with food are also a comforting reminder during the grieving process that friends & colleagues have not forgotten.

It's easy to be at a loss for words when it comes to expressing your condolences.  Following are some commonly used phrases that you may want to consider...

- Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time
- Our deepest sympathies during your time of loss
- [Name] will always be in our our hearts and memories
- With deepest sympathy
- May the peace which comes from the memories shared, comfort you now and in the days ahead
- We wish to express our sympathy for your loss and to let you know that our thoughts are with you