Not every flower type is appropriate for every occasion. The bright colors of a "Get Well" Bouq may not suit the muted tone of a funeral, for example. In general, sympathy and funeral flowers tend to be white or pale pink. More specifically, common funeral flower types include:

• Lilies have long been popular sympathy flowers since they represent a return to innocence. White lilies, in particular, might be the most common type of flower funeral-goers will see.

• Chrysanthemums are typical funeral flowers around the world. In Europe, chrysanthemums are so associated with death that they're rarely found in other arrangements, and Asian Pacific countries see white chrysanthemums as a symbol of grief and mourning.

• Gladioli represent integrity and remembrance. They are often used as a funeral flower for people who were heavily involved in civic duties around their community such as judges, lawyers, and police officers.

• Carnations are another frequent choice of sympathy flower gifts. White carnations symbolize innocence, while red carnations represent undying love and admiration.

• Orchids are a lovely option for some women since they represent thoughtfulness and femininity. Pink orchids are the most common color choice when sending condolence flowers.

• Roses are the flower of true love, which makes them a natural choice for sympathy flower delivery. Since roses come in a variety of colors, you can select the color that best represents the deceased or your relationship to them.

We know that it can be tricky figuring out what to write in a card accompanying a sympathy flower delivery. After all, no words exist to cure somebody's grief. Your goal is to express your support for the mourner.  A few phrases that we commonly see on sympathy cards include things like:

• My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

• I'm sorry for your loss.

• My deepest sympathies and sincere condolences as you mourn.

Need help finding the right words? Explore our Sympathy Message Guide that features 50 thoughtful phrases you can choose from in order to send the right message.

You can send sympathy flowers any time, but we would suggest that the sooner you can offer your condolences, the better. That's why we offer same or next day delivery on some of our most popular Bouqs. If you want to send something to the funeral home, schedule flower delivery for the day before the service.