Sympathy bouquets

Sending a condolence bouquet: a loving gesture of sympathy

A condolence is often the moment you want to show someone that you’re thinking of them — that you care, want to offer comfort, and are there for the bereaved. Flowers can help express those feelings, especially when words are hard to find. A condolence bouquet is a beautiful and meaningful gesture. At Topbloemen.nl, you’ll find a fitting selection of sympathy flowers: tasteful, serene, and thoughtfully arranged. Ordering is easy online, and you choose the time and place for delivery.

What is a condolence bouquet?

A condolence bouquet is a hand-tied arrangement sent to express sympathy after someone has passed away. It typically has a more subdued color palette and tone than a festive bouquet, with flowers symbolizing love, respect, and remembrance. Unlike a funeral bouquet or funeral arrangement, a condolence bouquet is not intended for the service itself but rather as a comforting gift for the bereaved. It’s often sent to the family’s home before or after the funeral.

When to send a condolence bouquet: appropriate moments

A condolence bouquet is given when you want someone to know you’re thinking of them after a significant loss. This can be right after the passing, in the days leading up to the funeral, or afterwards, when the silence sets in and grief feels overwhelming.

You can send a condolence bouquet in the following situations:

• As a gesture of sympathy to the bereaved
• If you’re unable to attend the funeral or memorial service
• When colleagues want to send a joint message of support
• As a comforting gift in the weeks after the funeral
• On a meaningful date, such as the anniversary of the passing or the birthday of the deceased

A condolence bouquet doesn’t have to be given on or near the day of the funeral. Sometimes, a thoughtful gesture at a later moment is especially appreciated.

What’s the difference between a funeral bouquet and a condolence bouquet?

While both types of bouquets express sympathy, the main difference lies in their purpose and design:

Condolence bouquet:
✔ Hand-tied
✔ Meant for the bereaved, not for the casket
✔ Subtle and modest in color
✔ Easy to order and deliver
✔ Suitable after the funeral

Funeral bouquet:
✔ Hand-tied, laid flat
✔ Specifically meant for the casket or grave
✔ Often larger and with more symbolic flowers
✔ Usually delivered on the day of the funeral
✔ Limited shelf life (no floral foam)

Not sure which one to choose? Ask yourself whether the bouquet is for the funeral service itself (funeral bouquet), or to offer comfort to the bereaved (condolence bouquet).

Adding a card to your condolence bouquet

A condolence bouquet becomes even more meaningful with a personal message. During the ordering process at Topbloemen.nl, you can easily add a card with your own text. It doesn’t have to be long — a few heartfelt words are often enough.

Examples of condolence card messages:

• With heartfelt sympathy
• Wishing you strength during this difficult time
• Thinking of you
• We are here for you
• A warm gesture in a quiet time
• Words fall short, but our thoughts are with you

Prefer something more formal or want to send it on behalf of a group? Feel free to include names from a team or family.

What flowers are suitable for a condolence bouquet?

For a condolence bouquet, it’s best to choose flowers with a calm appearance and symbolic meaning. Common choices include:

• White rose – symbolizes love, purity, and remembrance
• Lily – a symbol of peace and farewell
• Lisianthus – expresses gratitude and connection
• Chrysanthemum – represents respect and memory
• Gerbera – conveys comfort and love
• Carnation – symbolizes dignity and loyalty

The florists at Topbloemen.nl carefully select seasonal flowers in colors that suit the occasion, so you can be sure your bouquet is appropriate and thoughtful.

Condolence bouquet delivery: when and where possible

Condolence bouquets can be delivered to any address in the Netherlands, including:

• The home of the bereaved
• A funeral home (please check opening hours)
• Your own address, if you wish to hand it over personally

Delivery options:

• Same-day delivery is available if you order before 1:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday)
• No deliveries are made on Sundays

Make sure the delivery address is correct, and use the ‘notes’ field during checkout for any special instructions (e.g. “please leave with the neighbors”).

Order a condolence bouquet online at Topbloemen.nl

Ordering a condolence bouquet via Topbloemen.nl is quick and easy. Choose a suitable bouquet, add a card, and select your delivery date. We’ll take care of the rest. Whether you opt for a modest arrangement or a larger bouquet, each one is crafted with care and delivered at the right moment.

Need personal advice when choosing a condolence bouquet?

Not sure which bouquet is most appropriate? Or have questions about the delivery? Don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We’re here to help with personal advice.