Creating a cemetery flower arrangement is a heartfelt way to honor a loved one who has passed away. When you make the arrangement yourself, it becomes a unique expression of your love and memories. This guide will help you create a meaningful and lasting tribute, with a few personal touches to make it special.

Table of Contents

  1. Choosing the Right Flowers
  2. Selecting a Memorable Container
  3. Gathering Your Materials
  4. Designing the Arrangement
  5. Assembling Your Creation
  6. Adding Personal Touches
  7. Keeping It Looking Fresh

Choosing the Right Flowers

cemetery flowers Picking the right flowers for your arrangement is about more than just aesthetics. Here are some tips to help you make a meaningful choice:

  • Weather Durability: Cemetery arrangements are exposed to the elements, so choose flowers that can withstand various weather conditions. For example, chrysanthemums and carnations are tough and hold up well over time. If you’re concerned about longevity, silk flowers are an excellent alternative.
  • Personal Significance: Reflect on the flowers your loved one cherished. Maybe they had a favorite bloom, or perhaps a particular color always brought them joy. For example, I once chose daisies for an arrangement because they reminded me of my grandmother’s garden, where we spent many happy afternoons together.
  • Symbolic Meanings: Many flowers carry specific meanings. Roses symbolize love, lilies stand for purity, and marigolds represent remembrance. Selecting flowers with these meanings can add a layer of sentiment to your arrangement.

Selecting a Memorable Container

The container you choose can also carry special significance. Here’s how to pick one that adds meaning to your arrangement:

  • Recycled or Sentimental Items: Instead of a traditional vase, consider using something with personal value, like a tin that belonged to your loved one or a basket you used together for picnics. This can make the arrangement even more personal.
  • Vase or Basket: If you prefer something more conventional, opt for a sturdy, weather-resistant container like a plastic or metal vase. A weighted basket can add a rustic touch, especially if you decorate it with meaningful items.
  • Foam Base: If you’re using a basket or an unconventional container, a Styrofoam or floral foam base will help keep your flowers in place and make arranging them easier.

Gathering Your Materials

Before you start arranging, gather everything you’ll need. This includes:

  • Flowers: Whether you choose fresh, silk, or a combination, ensure you have enough to create a full, lush arrangement.
  • Container: Vase, basket, or a personalized item.
  • Floral Foam or Styrofoam: To secure the flowers in place.
  • Tools: Scissors or pruners for trimming stems, and floral tape or wire for securing the arrangement.
  • Decorative Items: Consider adding ribbons, small personal mementos, or seasonal elements to make the arrangement unique.

Designing the Arrangement

Designing your arrangement is where you can get creative and make something truly unique:

  • Start with a Focal Point: Choose a central flower or a small cluster of blooms that will draw the eye. For instance, if your loved one adored sunflowers, use one as the focal point and build around it.
  • Layering and Balance: Arrange the flowers in layers, with the tallest in the center or at the back, and gradually work down to shorter ones. This layering creates depth and balance, making the arrangement look full and intentional.
  • Color Combinations: Consider using colors that were meaningful to your loved one. For instance, if they loved the ocean, a mix of blues and whites can evoke that memory.

Assembling Your Creation

Now it’s time to put everything together:

  • Prepare Your Container: Secure the floral foam or Styrofoam inside the container. This will hold your flowers in place and keep them secure.
  • Add the Focal Flowers First: Start by placing your focal flowers, ensuring they’re firmly positioned and stand out.
  • Fill In with Supporting Flowers: Gradually add supporting flowers around the focal point, working outward. Make sure to maintain balance, and fill in any gaps with smaller flowers or greenery.
  • Final Adjustments: Once all the flowers are in place, step back and look at the arrangement from different angles. Adjust as needed to ensure it looks full and balanced.

Adding Personal Touches

Adding personal touches makes your arrangement truly unique and meaningful:

  • Incorporate Memories: Add items that remind you of your loved one, like a small figurine, a seashell from a memorable trip, or even a piece of fabric from a favorite shirt.
  • Seasonal Themes: Tailor the arrangement to the time of year. For instance, you could add small pumpkins or autumn leaves in the fall, or incorporate bright, cheerful elements in the spring.
  • Handwritten Notes: Consider attaching a small, laminated card with a message or poem that holds special meaning.

Keeping It Looking Fresh

To maintain the appearance of your arrangement:

  • Regular Visits: Check on the flowers during your visits and replace any that have faded or been damaged by the weather.
  • Watering Fresh Flowers: If you’ve used fresh flowers, make sure to water them regularly to keep them vibrant.
  • Seasonal Refresh: Swap out flowers and decorative elements as the seasons change to keep the arrangement looking fresh and appropriate.

Conclusion

Creating a DIY cemetery flower arrangement is a deeply personal way to honor and remember a loved one. By incorporating meaningful flowers, a special container, and personal touches, you can craft a beautiful tribute that reflects the spirit and memories of the person you’re commemorating. This thoughtful process not only adds beauty to their resting place but also serves as a healing activity, allowing you to connect with your memories in a meaningful way.

Before you take your beautifully crafted arrangement to the cemetery, make sure to get a headstone flower anchor or two to keep the arrangement from blowing away.