Sympathy bouquet: a warm gesture of comfort for loved ones

What makes a sympathy bouquet so special?

A sympathy bouquet is a tender gesture that lets loved ones know you are thinking of them. It offers comfort, compassion and strength, even if you cannot attend the ceremony. The flowers are placed in the home - on a table, near a photo of the deceased or in a quiet corner - where their soft colours and subtle fragrance bring a sense of peace.

A gesture before or after the funeral

Unlike funeral bouquets, wreaths or arrangements intended for the ceremony, a sympathy bouquet is delivered exclusively to the home. It is a deeply appreciated gesture, as it reaches the bereaved at a moment that feels right for them, away from the intensity of the funeral day.

A condolence card instead of a ribbon

With a sympathy bouquet, it is best to include a personal condolence card. A ribbon is typically used for funeral arrangements displayed at the ceremony. At home, the bouquet accompanies a more intimate phase of the grieving process.

Your bouquet becomes a quiet presence, along with a message they can revisit for comfort.

Which flowers are included in a sympathy bouquet?

Flowers speak a gentle language. Through their colours, textures and symbolism, they bring calm and connection. Common flowers include:

• White roses – purity, respect and serenity

• Lisianthus – appreciation and connection

• Chrysanthemums – lasting support and remembrance

• Lilies – light, peace and comfort

• Eucalyptus or salal – a fresh, calming base

Our Fleurop-Interflora florists use only fresh flowers and tailor each arrangement to the occasion, ensuring your message is expressed perfectly.

What is the difference between a sympathy bouquet and a funeral bouquet?

Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a clear difference:

Sympathy bouquet / condolence bouquet: delivered to the home, before or after the funeral, placed in water, with a card

Funeral bouquet: used during the ceremony, placed near the coffin or urn, often with a ribbon

Still unsure? Our Fleurop-Interflora customer service team is happy to help. What matters most is that your message is conveyed in the way you intend.

Order a sympathy bouquet online with Fleurop-Interflora

Ordering a sympathy bouquet online is quick and easy. Choose the arrangement that best reflects your feelings, add a personal message and optionally include an extra such as a vase, so the recipient can immediately display the flowers.

Thanks to our network of local florists in Belgium, your bouquet is:

• Carefully created by a local florist

• Personally delivered to the home

• Delivered the same day (order before 2:00 PM on weekdays, before 12:00 PM on Saturdays)

• Available for worldwide delivery in more than 150 countries

For nearly 100 years, we have ensured that your gesture of comfort arrives at the right place and time.

When can you send a sympathy bouquet?

Expressing condolences is very important. You may wonder when it is appropriate to send a bouquet:

Before or shortly after the funeral:

• As soon as you hear the news

• Before or after the ceremony

• Within the first two weeks

Later:

• To show ongoing support

• During special occasions such as birthdays or holidays, when the loss may feel more present

Inspiration for sympathy card messages

“Thinking of you. Wishing you strength.”

“May warm memories bring you comfort during this difficult time.”

“Words fall short. You are in my thoughts.”

“With deepest sympathy and heartfelt compassion.”

A sympathy bouquet for every stage of grief

A sympathy bouquet is a respectful and caring gesture that supports loved ones throughout the grieving process. With its soft colours and natural textures, it offers comfort and reassurance.

Also discover our funeral bouquets, wreaths and sympathy arrangements to find the gesture that best reflects your feelings.