A Guide to Sending Funeral Flowers in Hong Kong
Sending flowers to a funeral is a meaningful way to express condolences and sympathy to the family of the deceased. In Hong Kong, this tradition is highly valued, and there are certain customs and expectations that one should consider when sending funeral flowers. Here is a comprehensive HK flower shop guide on how to do so with respect and care.
1. Understanding the Cultural Context
Respectful Attitude: Funeral flowers are seen as a gesture of respect, offering condolences to the grieving family. Flowers should convey sympathy without overshadowing the solemnity of the occasion.
Color Considerations: Traditionally, white flowers symbolize purity, peace, and mourning in Chinese culture, and they are the most appropriate choice for funeral arrangements. Red and bright colors are often associated with joy and celebration, so it's best to avoid them in funeral bouquets.
Symbolic Flowers: Specific flowers have different meanings in Chinese culture:
Lilies: Represent peace and the hope for the deceased's soul to rest in peace.
Chrysanthemums: A common flower for funerals, symbolizing mourning and respect.
Orchids: Symbolize love, beauty, and respect, often given for more formal occasions.
Lotus: Associated with purity and spiritual enlightenment.
Roses (especially white): Represent love and sympathy.
2. Types of Funeral Flower Arrangements
Wreaths (花圈): Large, circular floral arrangements, typically used at funerals in Hong Kong. They are often placed at the altar or at the entrance of the funeral home. Wreaths are the most common choice.
Baskets of Flowers (花籃): These are often smaller than wreaths but still elaborate and respectful. They can be placed near the deceased's casket or at a memorial service.
Standing Sprays (立式花牌): Large floral arrangements that stand upright and are typically placed next to the coffin. They are suitable for larger funerals and are often accompanied by a card with the sender’s message.
Bouquets: For smaller, more intimate expressions of sympathy, a simple bouquet of white lilies, roses, or chrysanthemums can be appropriate.
3. Choosing the Right Flower Delivery Service
Funeral Flower Shops: Look for specialized funeral flower shops in Hong Kong. Many florists offer specific funeral arrangements, including wreaths, sprays, and baskets. Some well-known funeral florists in Hong Kong include Flora Hong Kong, Flower Style Hong Kong, and Carolina Flowers.
Delivery Timing: Ensure the flowers are delivered ahead of the funeral service. It’s ideal to send the flowers at least a day before the service to ensure they are fresh and available for the ceremony. Florists usually handle delivery directly to the funeral home or the location of the service.
Online Ordering: Many florists offer online ordering services with delivery to funeral homes, which is especially convenient if you are not in Hong Kong or unable to attend in person. Be sure to check the florist’s website for funeral-specific arrangements.
4. Writing the Sympathy Message
Simple and Respectful: When sending funeral flowers, you will often be asked to include a condolence message. Keep it simple, respectful, and brief. Some traditional phrases include:
"With deepest sympathy and condolences."
"May you find peace and comfort in this time of sorrow."
"Our thoughts are with you in this time of loss."
"May [Name] rest in peace."
Language Choice: If you know the family’s primary language, it is thoughtful to send your message in that language (Cantonese, Mandarin, or English). In Hong Kong, English is widely understood, but Cantonese is often preferred for local families.
5. Proper Etiquette for Sending Flowers
Timing: Flowers should be sent in advance of the funeral service to allow time for the family to receive them before the ceremony begins.
Accompanying the Flowers: If you're attending the funeral, it’s customary to bow or offer your respects quietly as you place your flowers. However, sending flowers without attending is also acceptable.
Respect for the Family’s Wishes: Sometimes, the family of the deceased may request no flowers or a charitable donation in lieu of flowers. Always check for any such requests before proceeding.
Condolence Gift Etiquette: Along with flowers, some people may give red envelopes (typically filled with cash) to the family to assist with funeral costs. This is more common in certain Chinese traditions, though flowers remain the primary way of showing respect.
6. Popular Flower Shops in Hong Kong for Funerals
Flora Hong Kong: Specializes in funeral flower arrangements, offering wreaths, baskets, and sprays.
Flower Style Hong Kong: Offers an array of funeral flowers and personalized designs, with options for online ordering and delivery.
Carolina Flowers: Known for its high-quality arrangements, including funeral wreaths and sprays.
Kowloon Florist: Provides traditional and modern funeral flower arrangements, including same-day delivery services.
Sending funeral flowers in Hong Kong is a thoughtful gesture that conveys sympathy and respect for the deceased and their family. By following cultural customs, choosing appropriate flowers, and considering the family’s wishes, you can ensure your condolences are expressed in a meaningful and respectful way. Always take the time to choose the right floral arrangement and accompany it with a heartfelt message to provide comfort during this difficult time.
