Melbourne is a culturally diverse city, with a variety of cultural backgrounds that include Anglo-Celtic, Italian, Greek, Chinese, Vietnamese, Indian, and Lebanese. Other significant cultural groups include Indigenous Australians, Turkish, Sri Lankan, and Filipino. The city's diverse population is reflected in its food, festivals, and arts, making Melbourne a vibrant and multicultural city.

It goes without saying that funeral flower etiquette also varies between each culture and faith. As it is such a sensitive subject matter, it’s important not to commit any faux pas when you’re attending a funeral. Since 1980, Mordialloc Florist™ has been providing a range of premium quality bereavement flowers for different customs in Melbourne. We share funeral flower etiquette below.

Funeral flower etiquette for Jewish funerals

Please bear in mind that Orthodox Jews do not find flowers appropriate. However, you can offer a fruit basket or food hamper during the seven-day mourning period, known as Shiva. This will follow the funeral, and burial usually takes place within 24 hours of death.

Funeral flower etiquette for Roman Catholic funerals

Flowers are welcomed and appreciated. They may be sent to the funeral home, church, or home of the deceased’s family. Prior to the funeral service, a vigil will be held and it may or may not include a Rosary service. Other expressions of sympathy that are appreciated may include a small angel statue, a candle, or crucifix.

Funeral flower etiquette for Orthodox Christian funerals

For Russian, Greek, Coptic or Armenian Orthodox Christian funerals, flowers are welcomed and usually sent to the funeral home. An emphasis is on white flowers, which symbolise purity, peace and innocence.

Funeral flower etiquette for Muslim funerals

It is best to seek the opinion of an Imam, who may decide the appropriateness of sending flowers to a departed person’s family. Should flowers be appropriate, roses and fragrant varieties are acceptable.

Funeral flower etiquette for Buddhist funerals

For Buddhists, family practices may vary when it comes to sending flowers. Sending food or red flowers to the family is frowned upon, as red is considered a happy colour (as is Chinese custom). A financial donation may also be made to the family at the service or after - but never before the funeral.

Funeral flower etiquette for Hindu funerals

Flowers can be sent as a kind gesture however it is not part of the Hindu tradition. The family will arrange floral garlands and funeral sprays to be placed in the casket.

Sympathy flowers in Melbourne, for Melbourne

Mordialloc Florist™ specialises in delivering stunning sympathy arrangements , funeral wreaths, casket flowers and funeral sprays across Melbourne. Our dedicated team of floral artists can work with any budget or unique request. Speak to our florists today to discuss how we can honour your loved one’s memories through a flower arrangement.

You might also like to read our blog on funeral and sympathy flower dos and don'ts.