Funeral Flower Etiquette: What to Send and When in Baltimore

When someone passes, sending flowers is one of the oldest and most comforting ways to express sympathy — but it's also a moment when many people worry about getting the etiquette right. As a Baltimore florist who helps grieving families every week, we've put together this simple guide to what to send, when, and to whom.

Who sends funeral flowers?

Almost anyone can send funeral flowers — close family, extended family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Traditionally the largest arrangements (casket sprays) come from the immediate family, while friends and acquaintances send standing sprays, wreaths, or smaller sympathy bouquets. If you knew the person or you're close to someone who did, sending flowers is always appropriate.

What type of arrangement should you send?

• Standing sprays & wreaths — large, display-style arrangements sent to the funeral home for the service. Appropriate from friends, colleagues, and groups.
• Casket sprays — placed on top of the casket, usually chosen by the immediate family.
• Sympathy bouquets & plants — sent to the family's home to offer comfort in the days and weeks after.
• Crosses & custom tributes — often chosen to reflect faith or a personal connection.

If you're sending on behalf of an office or group, a standing spray with a shared card is a thoughtful choice.

When should flowers arrive?

For arrangements going to the service, aim to have them delivered to the funeral home a couple of hours before the viewing or service begins. For sympathy flowers going to the family's home, anytime in the first few weeks is appropriate — and flowers that arrive after the service, when the rush has passed and visitors have gone, are often especially meaningful.

What should you write on the card?

Keep it short and sincere. A few examples:

• “With deepest sympathy — thinking of you and your family.”
• “Holding you close in our hearts during this difficult time.”
• “In loving memory of [name]. They will be deeply missed.”
• “With heartfelt condolences from all of us at [company].”

What about color and flower choice?

White flowers — lilies, roses, and chrysanthemums — are the traditional symbols of peace, reverence, and remembrance. But there are no hard rules: soft pastels convey gentleness, while the person's favorite color or flower can make a tribute deeply personal. When in doubt, a classic white or soft arrangement is always appropriate.

Sending sympathy flowers in Baltimore

At Blooming Treasure we deliver same-day to funeral homes, churches, cemeteries, and family homes across Baltimore when you order by 3 PM — and we coordinate directly with the funeral home so your tribute is in place before the service. For a full breakdown of where we deliver and the arrangements we offer, see our guide to funeral & sympathy flowers in Baltimore, or browse our sympathy collection. If you'd like help choosing, call us at 443-930-5040 — we're here for you.