Sympathy spray

"A large floral arrangement designed to drape over or stand beside a casket or urn at a funeral or memorial service, typically commissioned by close family members."

Why it matters

The sympathy spray is the central floral arrangement at most American funerals. Standard size ranges from 24 inches (small altar spray) to 60 inches (full casket spray). Pricing runs $200 for the smallest mass-market option to $1,200+ for a full custom casket spray with premium flowers. The cost reflects both the flower volume (200 to 600 stems) and the assembly labor (3 to 5 hours by a trained designer).

Etiquette: full casket sprays are reserved for the immediate family. Friends and extended family send standing sprays, baskets, or potted plants delivered to the funeral home or family residence.

Best practices

Order at least 48 hours in advance for any custom work. Specify the funeral home name, the deceased's name, and the service time when ordering so the florist can schedule delivery. For religious services, ask the family or funeral director about flower restrictions (some traditions limit flowers at funerals).

Frequently asked

How is a sympathy spray different from a standing arrangement?

A spray is one-sided, designed to be viewed from the front (as it sits on or beside a casket). A standing arrangement is round and viewable from all angles, designed to sit on the floor near the casket or at the entrance to the service.