Coffin/Casket Spray Help Page
Coffin Sprays: When, Why, and How We Send Them
Funerals are moments of profound reflection and remembrance, and floral tributes play a crucial role in expressing love and respect. Among the most significant arrangements is the coffin spray—a large, elegant display placed on top of the coffin or casket during the service. Close family members often choose this tribute, and it symbolises a final gesture of farewell.
When Do We Send a Coffin Spray?
Coffin sprays are usually sent for the funeral service, as they are intended to rest on the coffin or casket. They are most suitable when:
- Immediate Family Tribute: Coffin sprays are typically selected by the spouse, children, or close relatives as the primary floral arrangement.
- Central Display: When the family wishes to have a prominent floral tribute that embodies their love and respect.
- Formal Services: Coffin sprays are suitable for traditional or formal funerals where a large, elegant arrangement is expected.
- Personalised Farewell: Families often choose coffin sprays to reflect the personality of the deceased through colour, style, and flower selection.
Unlike smaller tributes, coffin sprays are usually not sent by friends or colleagues—they are reserved for the immediate family.
Why Choose a Coffin Spray?
The coffin spray is more than just a floral display — it represents devotion and remembrance. Here’s why families select them:
- A statement of love: As the most remarkable tribute, it signifies the depth of emotion and respect for the departed.
- Visual impact: Placed on the coffin, it becomes the focal point of the service, providing beauty and dignity.
- Personalisation: Coffin sprays can be customised with favourite flowers, colours, and even themes to reflect the individual’s life.
- Tradition and elegance: They maintain a long-standing tradition of honouring loved ones with grandeur and grace.
How Are Coffin Sprays Made?
Creating a coffin spray demands skill and artistry. Florists craft these arrangements to be both beautiful and securely suitable for placement on the coffin. The process involves:
- Selecting the base: A foam base is used to keep flowers fresh and hydrated throughout the service.
- Selecting flowers: Popular options include Roses, Lilies, Carnations, and seasonal blooms. White is traditional, but vibrant colours can be used to create a celebratory tone.
- Designing the shape: Coffin sprays are usually elongated to span the length of the coffin, with cascading foliage for elegance.
- Adding personal touches: Ribbons, messages, or symbolic flowers can be included for a distinctive tribute.
Types of Coffin Sprays
- Single-Ended Spray: Tapered at one end, suitable for smaller coffins or limited space. Often chosen for its simplicity and elegance.
- Double-Ended Spray: Full-length arrangement covering most of the coffin. The most traditional and popular choice for family tributes.
- Mixed Flower Spray: Combines various blooms for a vibrant, textured display. Perfect for reflecting a loved one’s personality.
- Themed Sprays: Features favourite colours or flowers. It can include symbolic elements such as national flowers or seasonal blooms.
Brief History of Coffin/Casket Sprays
Floral tributes have traditionally been part of funeral customs, symbolising purity, peace, and eternal life. Coffin sprays gained popularity during the Victorian era when elaborate funeral displays were widespread. Over time, they developed into a significant aspect of contemporary funerals, representing love and respect in a visually impactful manner.
Today, coffin sprays remain a tradition across cultures, blending historical significance with personal expression.
Coffin vs Casket: What’s the Difference?
The terms “coffin” and “casket” are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different designs:
- Coffin: Usually six-sided, tapering at both the head and foot. Common in the UK and linked to traditional funerals.
- Casket: Rectangular with a hinged lid, commonly used in the US and linked to contemporary or premium services.
Both serve the same purpose, but the choice often depends on cultural preference and funeral style. Coffin sprays can be adapted for either shape.
When Ordering a Coffin Spray
- Consult with Molly’s Florist: Share preferences for flowers, colours, and size.
- Confirm delivery: Ensure the spray arrives at the funeral venue on time.
- Consider personalisation: Add messages or select blooms with special meaning.
- Plan in advance: Place your order at least 2–3 days before the service for customised designs.
Final Thoughts
A coffin spray is a profound way to say goodbye—a tribute that speaks of love, respect, and remembrance. Whether you choose a traditional double-ended spray or a personalised design, this arrangement will remain a lasting memory of a heartfelt farewell.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a coffin spray cost?
Prices vary depending on size, style, and the type of flowers. Standard coffin sprays start at around £120, while larger or bespoke designs can cost from £200 upwards.
How much notice do you need for a coffin spray?
We recommend ordering at least 2–3 days ahead of the funeral for custom designs. Standard sprays can often be prepared within 24 to 48 hours.
Do you deliver coffin sprays directly to the funeral venue?
Yes, we offer direct delivery to the funeral venue or your home on the day of the service to ensure your tribute arrives fresh and on time.
Can coffin sprays be personalised?
Absolutely. You can select specific flowers, colours, and even add personal touches, such as ribbons or messages, to make the tribute unique.
