When someone passes away in the Philippines, family and friends gather for the lamay, the wake, which usually lasts several days before the burial. Visiting the wake and sending flowers are among the most meaningful ways to show your support. But if you’ve never done it before, it’s natural to wonder: what flowers do you bring to a wake, and what’s the proper way to send them? This guide answers the most common questions so you can honor the departed and comfort the family with confidence.
Need to send flowers now? Browse our funeral and sympathy arrangements.
What Flowers Are Appropriate for a Wake?
The safest and most traditional choice is white flowers, which represent peace, respect, and the purity of the soul. Soft pastels such as cream, light pink, and lavender are also appropriate. The most common wake flowers in the Philippines are:
- White lilies: the classic funeral flower, symbolizing the soul’s peace and restored innocence.
- Chrysanthemums (mums): long-lasting blooms closely associated with mourning and remembrance.
- White roses: reverence, honor, and remembrance.
- Carnations: white carnations stand for pure love, and they last well through a multi-day wake.
- Orchids: elegant and long-lasting, a symbol of everlasting love.
For a deeper look at flower meanings, read What Are Sympathy Flowers and Where Can I Buy Them in Cebu?
Which Arrangement Should You Send?
The right arrangement often depends on your relationship with the deceased and their family.
| Your Relationship | Suggested Arrangement |
|---|---|
| Immediate family | Large standing spray or wreath, often placed near the casket |
| Relatives and close friends | Standing spray or wreath |
| Office, company, or organization | Standing spray or double floral stand with the group’s name on the ribbon |
| Acquaintances, neighbors, classmates | A smaller basket or vase arrangement |
Popular choices from our shop include:
- White Lily & Chrysanthemum Funeral Standing Spray
- Classic White Funeral Wreath with Coordinating Base Sprays
- Premium White Standing Sympathy Arrangement
- Classic White Sympathy Double Floral Stand
- Grand White Sympathy Flower Stand
When Should You Send Flowers to a Wake?
Flowers are best sent as early as possible during the wake, ideally within the first day or two after you hear the news. This way the family can enjoy them for the whole viewing period, and your support arrives when it’s needed most. If you only learn of the passing later, it’s still appropriate to send flowers any time before the burial or cremation.
Can’t make it in time? Sending flowers to the family’s home after the funeral, or bringing flowers to the grave on All Souls’ Day, is also a thoughtful way to show you remember.
What Should the Ribbon Say?
In the Philippines, standing sprays and wreaths usually carry a ribbon or sash showing a short message and the sender’s name, so the family knows who sent them. Keep it simple and respectful. Common formats include:
- “Deepest Sympathy” followed by your name or family name
- “With Heartfelt Condolences” from the [Company / Department]
- “In Loving Memory” from your friends at [School / Organization]
- “Rest in Peace” from the [Family Name] Family
Double-check the spelling of every name before you order. The ribbon will be displayed throughout the wake.
Sympathy Card Message Ideas
If you’re including a card, a few sincere words are enough. Here are some examples:
- “Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.”
- “With deepest sympathy. May you find comfort in the love of family and friends.”
- “Forever in our hearts. We are so sorry for your loss.”
- “Wishing you peace and strength in the days ahead.”
- “Nakikiramay kami sa inyong pamilya.” (Our condolences to your family.)
Wake Etiquette Tips
- Respect the family’s faith and customs. Catholic, Christian, Muslim, Chinese-Filipino, and other families may have different traditions. When in doubt, choose simple white flowers.
- For Chinese-Filipino wakes, white and yellow flowers are traditional, while red is usually avoided because it’s associated with celebrations.
- Flowers and abuloy can go together. Many Filipinos also give abuloy, a monetary contribution to help the family with expenses. Flowers are a lovely complement, not a replacement.
- Coordinate with your group. Offices, classmates, and organizations often pool money for one larger arrangement with a group ribbon.
- Visit if you can. Flowers say a lot, but your presence and a few kind words matter to the family too.
How to Send Flowers to a Wake in Cebu
To make sure your flowers arrive at the right place, have these details ready when you order:
- Full name of the deceased
- Name and address of the funeral home, chapel, church, or family residence
- Chapel or room number, if any
- Viewing schedule and the date of the burial or cremation
- Your ribbon message and sender name
Flower Bar Cebu prepares funeral and sympathy arrangements from our shop in Carbon Market and delivers across Cebu City, Mandaue, Lapu-Lapu and Mactan, and Talisay. In a hurry? See our guide to same-day flower delivery in Cebu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to bring flowers to a Filipino wake?
Yes. Flowers are one of the most common and welcome ways to show sympathy at a lamay. Standing sprays and wreaths are traditionally displayed around the casket throughout the wake.
What color flowers should I avoid at a wake?
Very bright or celebratory colors, especially red, are usually avoided, particularly at Chinese-Filipino wakes. White and soft pastels are always appropriate.
Can I send flowers if I can’t attend the wake?
Absolutely. Sending flowers with a ribbon or card is a respectful way to express your condolences when you can’t be there in person. It’s also common for OFWs and relatives abroad.
How long does a wake last in the Philippines?
Wakes commonly last several days, often between three and seven, depending on the family’s wishes and religious traditions. Long-lasting flowers like chrysanthemums, carnations, and orchids hold up well through the viewing period.
Send Your Condolences with Flower Bar Cebu
We’re here to help you choose a fitting tribute with care and discretion. Visit us at Unit 2 Carbon Market, Ermita, Cebu City (open daily, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM), call or text +63 917 305 3194, or message us on Facebook. You can also browse all our funeral and sympathy flowers.
With years of experience as a trusted florist and flower shop owner in Cebu, Evelyn Aragon is the heart behind Flower Bar Cebu. Her local expertise in sourcing the freshest flowers and understanding Cebuano preferences ensures exceptional floral artistry for every occasion.