Answer · Condolences

What flowers should I send for a funeral in Greece?

Greek Orthodox funeral customs are specific, and getting them wrong is the kind of mistake people remember. This is what is expected.

Short answer

White flowers. White lilies, white roses, white chrysanthemums - chrysanthemums, which we advise against for every other occasion, are entirely appropriate here. Send a wreath or a standing arrangement to the church or funeral home, or a smaller bouquet to the family's home. Never red.

Recommended

Sympathy arrangements

White and sober tones only.

Do

White - lilies, roses, chrysanthemums
A wreath or standing arrangement, sent to the church or funeral home
A smaller bouquet to the family's home in the days that follow
A short card. Two lines. Say the person's name
Calling us if you are unsure - we do this every week and we will guide you

Avoid

Red flowers of any kind
Bright or mixed colours
A cheerful arrangement, however well meant
A long message. Brevity is respect here

Card messages

With our deepest sympathy.

Thinking of you and your family.

There are no words. We are here.

Frequently asked

What colour flowers for a Greek funeral?White. White lilies, white roses and white chrysanthemums are all appropriate and expected.

Are chrysanthemums appropriate?At a funeral, yes - this is the one occasion where they are correct in Greece. For any other occasion, avoid them entirely.

Should I send to the church or to the family's home?A wreath or standing arrangement goes to the church or funeral home. A smaller bouquet to the family's home is appropriate in the days that follow.

What should the card say?Very little. Two lines. Name the person who died - it matters more than anything else you could write.

Can you deliver to a funeral at short notice?Yes. Call us on +30 210 89 40 100 and tell us the church and the time. We handle this every week.

Speak to us directly: +30 210 89 40 100

Call us