What to Do with Funeral Flowers: A Guide to Honoring Memories and Embracing Life

Funeral flowers are a beautiful and traditional way to express sympathy, honor the deceased, and provide comfort to grieving families. However, once the funeral or memorial service is over, many people are left wondering what to do with these floral arrangements. While some may feel unsure about how to handle them, there are numerous meaningful and creative ways to repurpose funeral flowers. This article explores various options, from preserving memories to spreading joy, ensuring that the flowers continue to serve a purpose long after the service has ended.
1. Preserve the Flowers as Keepsakes
One of the most heartfelt ways to honor the memory of a loved one is by preserving the funeral flowers. Drying or pressing the blooms allows you to create lasting mementos that can be cherished for years to come. Here are a few ideas:
- Pressed Flower Art: Press the flowers between the pages of a heavy book or use a flower press. Once dried, they can be framed, used in scrapbooks, or incorporated into handmade cards.
- Resin Keepsakes: Encapsulate small flowers or petals in clear resin to create jewelry, coasters, or decorative ornaments.
- Dried Flower Arrangements: Hang the flowers upside down in a dry, dark place to preserve their shape. Once dried, they can be displayed in a vase or shadow box.
2. Donate the Flowers to Spread Joy
Funeral flowers can bring comfort and beauty to others who may be in need of a little brightness in their lives. Consider donating the arrangements to:
- Hospitals and Nursing Homes: Many healthcare facilities welcome flower donations to brighten up patient rooms and common areas.
- Shelters and Community Centers: Flowers can uplift the spirits of those facing difficult circumstances.
- Churches or Places of Worship: These spaces often use flowers for services or to decorate altars.
3. Compost the Flowers for New Life
If the flowers are no longer fresh, composting is an eco-friendly way to give them a second life. By turning the flowers into nutrient-rich compost, you can contribute to the growth of new plants and gardens. This act symbolizes the cycle of life and can be a comforting way to honor the deceased.
4. Create a Memorial Garden
Use the flowers to start or enhance a memorial garden in honor of your loved one. Plant the flowers in a special area of your yard or a community garden. Over time, the garden will grow and flourish, serving as a living tribute to their memory.
5. Share the Flowers with Family and Friends
Divide the arrangements among family members and close friends. This allows everyone to take home a piece of the memorial and keep the memory of the loved one alive in their own homes.
6. Repurpose the Flowers for Crafts
Get creative by using the flowers in various DIY projects:
- Candles: Embed petals into homemade candles for a personalized touch.
- Potpourri: Dry the flowers and mix them with essential oils to create fragrant potpourri.
- Paper Making: Blend the petals into homemade paper for a unique and sentimental texture.
7. Use the Flowers for a Celebration of Life
If the funeral flowers are still fresh, consider using them for a celebration of life event. This can be a more informal gathering where family and friends come together to share stories and memories. The flowers can serve as a beautiful backdrop for the occasion.
8. Return Them to Nature
Scatter the petals in a meaningful location, such as a favorite park, beach, or hiking trail. This act of returning the flowers to nature can be a symbolic way to say goodbye and honor the deceased’s connection to the natural world.
9. Create a Floral Memorial Online
Take photos of the flowers and share them on social media or a memorial website. This allows friends and family who couldn’t attend the service to feel connected and participate in honoring the loved one.
10. Turn the Flowers into a Charitable Act
Sell or auction the flowers and donate the proceeds to a charity or cause that was important to the deceased. This transforms the flowers into a meaningful contribution that continues their legacy.
FAQs
Q: Can I keep funeral flowers fresh for a longer time?
A: Yes, you can extend their freshness by changing the water daily, trimming the stems, and keeping them in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
Q: Are there any flowers that are particularly good for preserving?
A: Roses, lavender, and baby’s breath are excellent choices for drying and pressing due to their sturdy petals and long-lasting fragrance.
Q: Is it appropriate to donate funeral flowers?
A: Absolutely. Many organizations appreciate flower donations, as they can bring comfort and beauty to others in need.
Q: How do I compost funeral flowers?
A: Remove any non-biodegradable materials (like ribbons or foam) and add the flowers to a compost bin. Over time, they will break down into nutrient-rich soil.
Q: Can I use funeral flowers to make essential oils?
A: While it’s possible, the process requires a large quantity of flowers and specialized equipment. It’s often more practical to use the flowers for simpler crafts like potpourri.
By repurposing funeral flowers, you can create lasting memories, spread joy, and honor the life of your loved one in a meaningful way. Whether you choose to preserve, donate, or compost them, these flowers can continue to serve as a beautiful reminder of the love and connection you shared.