Sympathy Arrangements Practicum Questions Flashcards
What is the primary purpose of flowers at funerals?
To communicate emotions and provide consolation to the bereaved
Flowers express what cannot be easily spoken and show support for those grieving.
Who conducted research on the effects of flowers on the bereaved?
Candace Shoemaker and Diane Relf
Their research indicates that flowers provide comfort and brighten somber environments.
What are some key considerations for designing sympathy flower arrangements?
Understanding the purpose and special needs of floral pieces
Funeral flowers must be fresh and durable for extended display.
How do funeral customs vary?
They vary by faith, geographic region, culture, and family
For example, the Jewish faith traditionally does not use flowers in funeral rites.
What is visitation in the context of funerals?
A time for loved ones of the deceased to receive family and friends
Visitors pay their respects and offer solace to the family.
What is a private viewing?
A time for family to grieve privately before public visitation
It allows the family to begin accepting the death of their loved one.
What trend has been observed in cremation rates in the United States?
The percentage of deaths resulting in cremation is rising
From 15% in 1985, it is projected to reach 56% by 2025.
What is a eulogy?
A speech about the deceased delivered by a relative or friend
Not all funerals include a eulogy.
What is interment?
The process of committing the remains of the deceased to burial or a mausoleum
Cremated remains may also be kept by family members rather than interred.
What has changed regarding the use of sympathy flowers at funerals?
Funeral practices now often involve shorter viewing times and fewer visitation hours
Families may opt for one-day memorial services instead of traditional funerals.
What is the purpose of selection guides in floral design?
To provide diverse, creative ideas for casket sprays and cremation designs
They help florists showcase their arrangements to clients.
How can florists build relationships with funeral homes?
By visiting and establishing connections with funeral directors
A small gift of flowers may enhance rapport.
What should be included in a funeral floral consultation?
Name of the deceased, funeral home details, service times
Consultations should be conducted in a private space.
How should payment be handled for funeral floral arrangements?
Payment should be collected upfront before arrangements are made
This ensures a fair exchange of goods and services.
What is the significance of enclosure cards for sympathy flowers?
To provide sender information and a description of the arrangement
This helps the bereaved family acknowledge floral tributes.
What are traditional casket sprays?
Floral arrangements placed on top of a casket during memorial services
They can also be referred to as casket covers or palls.
What is the difference between half-couch and full-couch casket sprays?
Half-couch sprays cover half the casket, while full-couch sprays cover the entire length
The choice depends on the type of casket lid.
What materials were traditionally used for casket sprays?
Styrofoam was commonly used as a base for floral arrangements
Foliage is placed directly into the foam or wire frame.
What is a half-couch casket spray?
A floral arrangement that extends two-thirds to the full length of the casket.
What is the purpose of a casket saddle?
To keep the arrangement from slipping off the casket and to avoid leaks.
True or False: Casket sprays can be placed on top of the United States flag.
False
List types of casket floral adornments.
- Tapestries
- Quilts
- Handmade blankets
What is a casket blanket?
A floral pall that covers some or all the top of the casket.
Fill in the blank: A _______ is designed to drape over a closed casket or the closed side of a half-open casket.
casket scarf
What are inset pieces?
Smaller floral arrangements displayed inside the casket or casket lid.
What is the function of standing sprays?
To serve as a focal point when a casket or urn is not displayed.
What are set pieces?
Sympathy floral designs displayed on an easel, often in symbolic shapes.
What materials are commonly used for sympathy set pieces?
- Styrofoam
- Fresh floral foam
- Papier-mâché
- Urethane
What is a cemetery saddle?
A device used to place a floral spray on top of a headstone.
True or False: Green burial cemeteries allow the use of silk flowers.
False
What are live plants often marketed as in sympathy offerings?
Living memorials
List examples of foliage plants.
- Schefflera arboricola
- Ficus benjamina
- Dracaena species
What is a European dish garden?
A planter that combines one or more blooming plants with others to resemble a miniature garden.
What is the responsibility of the funeral home staff regarding sympathy floral tributes?
To accept and place them in the funeral home or service location.
What should florists do to ensure proper delivery of floral tributes?
Clearly label all designs and inform staff upon delivery.
Fill in the blank: Funeral homes often run on a tight _______.
schedule
What should be turned off before arriving at a funeral home?
The radio of the delivery vehicle.
