What flowers go to the wake? - Discover the meaning of flowers such as calla lilies, the death flower and other funeral plants

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In times of mourning, flowers become silent messengers of compassion and respect. Choosing them for wakes and funerals is an essential part of Romanian tradition, with each petal carrying a special meaning. In this article, you will discover which flowers are most appropriate for these delicate moments, what they symbolize, and how to choose them to pay a worthy tribute to the departed.

What is the role of flowers in Romanian tradition? - Their importance at funeral events

In Romanian culture and traditions, flowers are the bearers of our emotions at funeral events. They symbolize the ephemeral beauty of life, offering solace in the face of sadness. When you bring flowers to a wake, you convey a message of respect and compassion, contributing to creating a solemn atmosphere. Think of white lilies, which speak of the purity of the deceased's soul, or red roses, which express deep love and respect. Last but not least, carnations, known as the "flowers of death", are indispensable at wakes due to their sober appearance and profound meaning.

Keep in mind that, in Romanian tradition,funeral bouquets or wreaths with an even number of flowers are usually brought. White and red are the predominant colors, symbolizing purity and love.

So, by carefully choosing your flowers, you help create a suitable setting for saying goodbye and providing emotional support to those who are grieving.

What are the most common flowers brought to a wake?

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When we think of flowers associated with wakes and funeral rituals, certain species stand out due to their deep and symbolic meanings.

Carnations , with their sober and elegant appearance, are among the most common flowers chosen to accompany loved ones on their final journey. White carnations symbolize purity, while red ones express feelings of affection and deep respect. Chrysanthemums , a flower closely associated with mourning, are indispensable in funeral arrangements, having a special meaning in the traditions of many cultures. Roses , especially white or red ones, are a classic choice, full of depth, reflecting feelings of love and admiration.

Lilies , with their regal elegance, symbolize the purity of the soul and are seen as a perfect choice to honor the memory of the deceased.

A flower with a special meaning is the calla lily , known as the "flower of death," which, through its delicate form, brings a note of hope, being associated with rebirth and eternal life.

Gerberas , with their vibrant colors and fresh appearance, convey a message of appreciation and gratitude for the life of the deceased. These flowers are a symbol of joy and hope, offering a touch of light in moments of sadness.

Gladiolus are flowers that represent strength and courage. Due to their upright and imposing shape, they express respect and honor, and also have a symbolism of permanence, being often used to honor the life of the departed and to celebrate their memory. Gladiolus can also symbolize integrity, which makes them suitable in times of mourning.

Orchids , delicate and refined, are associated with beauty and elegance. They can convey a message of love and admiration, being considered a symbol of eternal beauty and elegance of the soul. Orchids are often used to express deep respect for the deceased person and to celebrate their remarkable life.

Tulips , with their simple and graceful forms, symbolize unconditional love and respect. They are a great choice to express feelings of appreciation for a life lived with dignity. Tulips can also be chosen to symbolize rebirth and hope for a better world.

Violets , with their subtle and delicate shades, are symbols of modesty and humility. They are the flowers that reflect deep respect for those who have passed away, often associated with pleasant memories and moments of inner peace.

The lilac is a flower that symbolizes both pure love and regret and the pain of loss. The lilac can be used to express irreplaceable love and the desire to keep the memory of a loved one alive.

Generally, flowers in delicate shades, such as white, lavender, pink or blue, are preferred in these arrangements, as they bring a sense of calm and reflection. At the same time, flowers in more intense colors, such as red or yellow, can symbolize deep respect and a special appreciation for the life of the departed.

The choice of flowers depends not only on their meaning, but also on the personal connection that those who offer them have, in order to truly honor the memory of the deceased person.

What do the colors of the flowers brought to the wake symbolize?

The colors of funeral flowers carry deep messages in our tradition.

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White , the predominant color, speaks of purity, innocence, and peace. White flowers are most often seen at wakes, offering comfort to the grieving family.

Red , although less common, finds its place in funeral arrangements, expressing love, respect, and courage. Think of red roses, which show deep affection for the deceased.

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Shades of pink bring a touch of grace and compassion, being especially suitable for funerals of young people. Yellow , although less common, can represent friendship and happy memories, bringing a ray of hope in moments of mourning.

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On the other hand, purple speaks of dignity and admiration, often complementing other shades in funeral arrangements.

When choosing the colors of flowers for a memorial service, consider the age of the deceased. For young people, lighter colors are often preferred, while for the elderly, more subdued shades are chosen. Regardless of the color chosen, flowers remain a universal symbol of compassion and homage to the memory of the departed.

Floral arrangements and bouquets for wakes and funerals

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When it comes to choosing flowers for a funeral, this decision carries a deep emotional charge, because each flower and arrangement chosen is a tangible manifestation of respect, love and memory for the departed. In front of this choice, it is not just a simple selection of plants, but a reflection on the significance of each type of flower, which will convey a special message and will pay a fitting tribute.

With their circular shape,funeral wreaths symbolize eternal life and are a classic choice. In contrast, funeral wreaths, with their large, vertical bouquets, often arranged in a teardrop shape, lend a touch of solemn elegance, suitable for a respectful tribute. They are often preferred for their strong visual impact and the subtle message they convey. For funeral floral arrangements, you have both classic bouquets at your disposal, as well as flower baskets, a less conventional alternative that can add an air of delicacy and refinement.

Cross or heart shapes are often chosen to express deep feelings of love, respect, and grief. The choice of flowers for these arrangements should be made carefully, considering their traditional meanings. Chrysanthemums, a symbol of mourning and eternal respect, carnations, which express pain and boundless love, lilies, which signify the purity of the soul, roses, a symbol of eternal love, and callas, the flower of death that brings a symbolism of rebirth, are all excellent options, each enriching the funeral arrangements with a special meaning. So, make sure that the arrangement expresses your respect and compassion in a dignified and elegant way.

Rules and etiquette regarding bringing flowers to wakes and cemeteries

Like any rite of life, there are some essential rules to follow when bringing flowers to a wake or cemetery, to ensure that your gesture is respectful and sensitive, follow the rules below.

Choose flowers in calm, understated colors, such as white, cream, or pastel purple, avoiding bright colors that may be considered inappropriate in this solemn context. Flowers should be fresh and of high quality, and arrangements can range from simple bouquets to elegant wreaths, depending on preference and tradition. It is important to respect the custom of bringing an even number of flowers, a practice with significance in many cultures.

For wakes, flowers should be brought as soon as possible after the death, as a sign of respect and mourning. At the cemetery, flowers can be brought at any time after the funeral, but it is recommended to avoid doing so during the service, so as not to disrupt the ceremonial atmosphere. When offering flowers, do so in a discreet and respectful manner, taking care to express your condolences in a sensitive way towards the grieving family. Maintain a sober attitude throughout this gesture and avoid taking photos of the floral arrangements without the consent of those involved, respecting the privacy of the moment.

Important tips to remember about funeral flower bouquets

When choosing flowers for a memorial service, it is essential to focus on fresh, high-quality flowers that will last throughout the ceremony, while also conveying a message of respect and compassion. It is important to opt for simple, yet elegant floral arrangements that reflect the solemnity of the moment. The number of flowers should always be even, as is tradition, symbolizing balance and harmony. Additionally, don't forget to consider the preferences of the deceased or the grieving family, which can add a personalized element to the tribute.

Don't forget! Among the most appropriate flowers for a funeral are chrysanthemums, carnations, lilies, white roses and calla lilies, each of which has a deep meaning and connection to this period of mourning. The size and style of the arrangement may vary depending on your relationship with the deceased and local traditions, but it is essential that the flowers chosen express sincerity, respect and compassion in an elegant and discreet manner.

Additionally, you can add a ribbon with a discreet message of condolence as an additional gesture of respect. It is also recommended that flowers be brought as soon as possible after the death, before the service begins, so as not to disrupt the ceremony, and at the cemetery, they can be brought at any time after the burial. When offering flowers, it is important to maintain a sober attitude, avoiding photos without permission and expressing your condolences in a respectful and discreet manner.

By following these tips and choosing flowers carefully, you will be able to pay a worthy tribute to the departed and provide comfort to the bereaved during these difficult times. Flowers, in all their beauty and symbolism, remain silent witnesses of our love and respect for those who are no longer with us.

References:

• Chivu, O. (2011). Birth and baptism customs in rural areas. Romania: Lumen.

• Dictionary of theological terms and concepts. (nd). (np): ePublishers & Coresi Publishing House.