Wishing to change the funeral flowers arrangement for my father; I indicated number 7 in the brochure, but a different design is preferred this time.

In the face of loss, choosing funeral flowers can often be a source of stress and confusion. With numerous questions from funeral directors and the pressure to conform to standard choices, the process can feel overwhelming. However, one speaker argues that funeral flowers should reflect individuality, not adhere to the norm.

The speaker, who expresses regret over the standard funeral flowers chosen for their father's funeral, believes that these arrangements should be a unique and personal tribute to the life that has been lost. They suggest that discussing one's own death can help ensure that the funeral flowers truly reflect individuality, providing a way to remember and honour the deceased in a meaningful way.

During these difficult times, the days following a loved one's death can be overwhelming, making it challenging to make decisions, including about funeral flowers. The speaker hears concerns such as "We don't know what they would have wanted" frequently. But, by discussing one's own death and funeral preferences, families can avoid floundering and drowning when the inevitable happens.

Flowers can serve as an unthreatening way to start a conversation about one's own death and funeral preferences. For instance, a simple posy topped with an Ordnance Survey map might be fitting for a rambler, while a bouquet of delphiniums and peonies could honour a keen gardener in June. Giant leeks might have been used for someone who spent mornings on the allotment, and walking boots and a stick could symbolise a life spent exploring the outdoors.

Before the introduction of plastic floral foam, funeral flowers were more varied and often reflected the deceased's life. Today, there are florists and flower farmers who can create personal, plastic-free funeral arrangements based on cherished memories. One such example is the Hohenkrähen-Gärtnerei in Singen, which offers personalised funeral floral arrangements.

The act of choosing and handling funeral flowers can be calming and comforting, providing a sense of connection to the deceased and a way to celebrate their life. By embracing individuality and personalising funeral flowers, we can create a more meaningful and memorable tribute to our loved ones.

Wishing to change the funeral flowers arrangement for my father; I indicated number 7 in the brochure, but a different design is preferred this time.