The Flower Journal · Guidance from Welch
How we help families choose funeral flowers
You do not need to know the names of flowers, understand tribute sizes or have the perfect words ready. A conversation about the person you are remembering is a good place to begin.
Choosing funeral flowers often comes at a time when there is already a great deal to organise. At Welch, we can help you work through the choices, from the style and colours to the card message and delivery details. Here is how to prepare for that conversation, and what we can help you decide.
Start with the person, rather than the flower list
A favourite colour, a garden they loved or a hobby that meant a great deal to them can all provide a starting point. You may want something quiet and understated, or an arrangement full of colour that reflects a lively personality.
You can also begin with a photograph of a design you like. Tell us what draws you to it: the shape, the colours or one particular flower. That helps us discuss the possibilities without assuming that every detail of a photograph can be reproduced.
If a specific flower or a bespoke shape is essential, please speak to us before ordering. Availability, the date and the construction of the design all matter.
Choose a shape that suits the farewell
A casket spray is an elongated arrangement often chosen as a main family tribute. A wreath has a circular shape, while a posy offers a more compact arrangement. A sheaf has a gathered-stem style.
Hearts, lettering and bespoke designs offer other ways to express a relationship or personal interest. There is no single style that every family should choose. Consider where the flowers will be placed, whether you are sending together or individually, and any wishes shared by the family.
Our funeral flower range is a useful starting point. We can help you compare the options if you are unsure.
Talk openly about your budget
You do not need to apologise for having a budget. Giving us a comfortable figure helps us discuss suitable designs and sizes from the outset.
For a bespoke request, we will need to understand the design before confirming a price. Ask what is included and how different sizes compare. A photograph is helpful for understanding the style, but it is worth checking the dimensions if the space available is important.
Bring family orders together clearly
Some families choose a shared tribute; others prefer each household to send its own flowers. Both can feel personal. If you would like to coordinate colours or delivery, contact us before placing separate orders so we can confirm the arrangements.
A simple list helps: who each tribute is from, which design they would like and the exact wording for each card. One family contact can make it easier to keep track of decisions, particularly when several relatives are ordering.
Natural burials: discuss the materials before ordering
If the flowers are for a natural burial, tell us at the start if floral foam, plastic or other materials must be avoided. A design’s appearance does not tell you everything about how it is constructed.
A gathered-stem style may be a useful starting point for the conversation, but the ties, wrapping and supporting materials also need to be considered. Ask us to confirm a suitable design and its materials before you place the order.
Your card message can be simple
There is no need to find an elaborate phrase. A few personal words and the names of the people sending the flowers can be enough.
You might write “With all our love, always”, mention a happy memory, or use words that were familiar within your family. Check names and spelling, and remember to include who the tribute is from. When several households are sending flowers, keep each message clearly matched to its design.
The details that help us arrange delivery
Before ordering, have these details to hand:
- The name of the person who has died.
- The funeral date and service time.
- The full delivery address and postcode.
- The funeral director’s name and any instructions for accepting flowers.
- Your contact details, in case we need to clarify something.
The service venue and flower delivery address may be different. Check where the funeral director would like the flowers delivered, and give us the service time separately from any requested delivery time.
Please allow at least two days’ notice where possible. If the funeral is sooner, call us before ordering: we can often help at shorter notice, but availability needs to be confirmed with the team.
Local care, with help for funerals further away
Our home is in Stapleford, Nottingham. Within our own-van area, Welch prepares and delivers the flowers. You can read our guides to Nottingham funeral flowers and Derby funeral flowers for local arrangements and more examples of our work.
Outside that area, we arrange funeral flowers through Interflora partner florists, who make and hand-deliver the tribute near its destination. Our UK funeral flower delivery guide explains the service. Bespoke designs shown here are Welch examples; availability through the wider network must be checked before ordering.
Our family business began in 1920, and Welch has been an Interflora member since 1951. You can read our family story and learn more about the people behind the flowers.
We can help you take the next step.
Tell us the funeral date, your ideas and anything you are unsure about.
Call Monday–Saturday, 07:30–16:00.