When choosing funeral flowers, people often encounter several types of arrangements designed specifically for memorial services. Two of the most common options are funeral sprays and funeral wreaths. While both arrangements are traditional and respectful ways to express sympathy, they differ in shape, symbolism, and how they are typically displayed during funeral services. Many people ordering funeral flowers are unsure which option is more appropriate, especially when sending flowers directly to a funeral home.
Understanding the difference between a funeral spray and a funeral wreath can make it easier to choose an arrangement that honors the life of the person who has passed away. Both arrangements are designed to be displayed during memorial services and help create a respectful atmosphere where family members and guests gather to remember their loved one. In this article, we will explain what funeral sprays and wreaths are, how they differ, when each arrangement is typically used, and how to choose the most appropriate tribute for a funeral service.
WHAT IS A FUNERAL SPRAY
A funeral spray is a large floral arrangement designed to be displayed on a standing easel during a memorial service. These arrangements are typically placed near the casket, memorial display, or photograph of the person who has passed away. Because they stand upright on an easel, funeral sprays are highly visible during the ceremony.
Funeral sprays are usually created in an elongated shape that spreads outward from the center of the arrangement. Florists often design them with flowing lines and layers of flowers combined with greenery. The goal is to create a full arrangement that looks elegant and respectful in the memorial setting.
Flowers commonly used in funeral sprays include lilies, roses, carnations, hydrangeas, chrysanthemums, and greenery. White flowers are especially common because they symbolize peace and remembrance. However, some families request arrangements that include soft colors or flowers that reflect the personality of the person being remembered.
Standing sprays are often sent by close friends, extended family members, colleagues, or organizations that want to honor the life of the deceased with a visible floral tribute.
WHAT IS A FUNERAL WREATH
A funeral wreath is another traditional floral arrangement used during memorial services. Unlike a spray, a wreath is circular in shape and is also displayed on a standing easel. The circular design carries symbolic meaning that represents eternity and the continuous cycle of life.
Wreaths are constructed around a circular frame where flowers are arranged evenly around the shape. Florists typically use flowers such as roses, carnations, chrysanthemums, and lilies to create the wreath design. Greenery is often added to create fullness and balance.
The circular structure of the wreath makes it one of the most recognizable funeral flower designs. Because circles have no beginning or end, wreaths have long symbolized eternal remembrance and lasting connection with the person who has passed away.
Funeral wreaths are commonly sent by friends, extended family members, workplaces, or community groups who want to express sympathy in a traditional way.
HOW FUNERAL SPRAYS AND WREATHS ARE DISPLAYED
Both funeral sprays and wreaths are designed to be displayed on standing easels during memorial services. Funeral homes usually place these arrangements around the memorial area where the ceremony takes place.
Standing sprays are often positioned beside the casket or near the main memorial display. Because they are elongated, they tend to create a vertical visual presence that frames the memorial space.
Wreaths are typically placed around the room along with other arrangements. Their circular shape creates visual balance when displayed alongside sprays and other floral tributes.
During the service, guests often see these arrangements surrounding the memorial space. Together, they create a tribute environment where people can gather to remember and honor the life of the person who has passed away.
SYMBOLISM OF SPRAYS AND WREATHS
Both sprays and wreaths carry symbolic meaning connected to remembrance and respect. Flowers themselves symbolize life and the natural cycle of birth and death, which is why they have been part of funeral traditions for centuries.
Funeral sprays represent tribute and honor. Because of their size and position during the service, they often serve as prominent floral displays that acknowledge the importance of the person being remembered.
Wreaths carry the symbolism of eternity. The circular design represents the idea that memories and connections continue even after a person’s life has ended.
These symbolic meanings are one reason why both sprays and wreaths remain among the most traditional funeral flower arrangements.
HOW TO CHOOSE BETWEEN A SPRAY AND A WREATH
Choosing between a funeral spray and a wreath often depends on personal preference and the relationship between the sender and the deceased. Both arrangements are considered appropriate and respectful for funeral services.
Some people prefer funeral sprays because they create a large visual tribute displayed near the memorial area. Others choose wreaths because the circular shape carries traditional symbolic meaning.
In many cases, organizations or workplaces send wreaths while close friends or extended family members may send sprays. However, there are no strict rules regarding which arrangement should be chosen.
The most important consideration is selecting an arrangement that expresses sympathy and respect for the family during a difficult time.
FAQ
What is the main difference between a funeral spray and a wreath?
A funeral spray is an elongated arrangement displayed on an easel, while a wreath is a circular arrangement symbolizing eternity and remembrance.
Are both sprays and wreaths appropriate for funerals?
Yes. Both arrangements are traditional funeral flowers and are commonly displayed during memorial services.
Who usually sends funeral sprays?
Funeral sprays are often sent by close friends, extended family members, or colleagues.
Who typically sends funeral wreaths?
Wreaths are frequently sent by organizations, workplaces, or community groups.
Can sprays and wreaths be delivered directly to funeral homes?
Yes. Florists regularly deliver both types of arrangements directly to funeral homes before services.
What flowers are commonly used in sprays and wreaths?
Lilies, roses, carnations, hydrangeas, and chrysanthemums are commonly used in these arrangements.
Conclusion
Funeral sprays and wreaths are two of the most traditional floral arrangements used during memorial services. While sprays are elongated arrangements designed to create a large tribute near the memorial area, wreaths feature a circular shape symbolizing eternal remembrance.
Both arrangements are respectful ways to honor the life of someone who has passed away. Choosing between them often comes down to personal preference or the message the sender wishes to convey. Regardless of the choice, funeral flowers serve as a meaningful tribute that helps create a peaceful environment where family members and friends can gather to remember their loved one.
