Memorial traditions have been shifting as a result of the pandemic and an aging population, both causing a rise in death rates. One of the biggest changes is an increase in the number of cremations, which have more than doubled in the last two decades. Consumers attitudes are also changing with a move towards more death positivity, a shift from tradition to customization, and more modern approaches emerging that celebrate the individual and their unqiue life.
Memorials are Shifting from Tradition towards Customization
Modern
Memorials today are getting a modern update as new generations planning the events op for more contemporary looks, monochromatic and bolder florals, and more clean and streamlined styling. They are hiring event planners to plan the events, with more event planners offering memorial services.
Eco-Friendly
More eco-friendly methods of burial and green funerals have become more popular because they are friendlier to the environment. With this trend comes more natural and rustic floral styling for the events with greenery, moss, and twigs as well as the use of more local and seasonal florals. Having the event outdoors or having attendees plant a tree in honor of the loved one are also popular options.
Personalization
Loved ones planning today's memorials or celebration of life events want to capture the details that made their loved one unique and reflect their personality and life. This includes unique and personalized floral arrangements that incorporate their favorite things, favorite colors or flowers, or a favorite hobby or pasttime. These events can also be held at a destination with special meaning to the deceased.
Celebrations of Life
Modern death rituals are evolving with families opting in favor of a Celebration of Life event versus a traditional funeral where those present reflect on the lost loved one's life in a way that is more celebratory. These events become more of a party for the loved one with a more optimistic feel where family and friends can share stories and treasured memories with the departed's favorite foods, songs, and activities. Florals can include more dramatic installations or arrangements similar to those at an event or wedding.
Dried Florals
Dried florals remains a trendy option and will be incorporated into modern memorials as backdrops, wreaths, and centerpieces. A mix of dried and fresh is also trending with drieds adding interesting texture and contrast. These mixes can be incorporated into wreaths, sprays, or other memorial arrangements.
Bold and Beloved
Bolder and brighter flowers are being incorporated into memorial arrangements and reflect the more joyful and optimistic attitudes in memorials and celebration of life events. Tropicals transport us to happier times, and relfect the joyous life lived by a loved one.
Trend Source: WGSN
Products to Celebrate Your Loved One
Need a different product to bring your vision to life? Shop our full Sympathy Category.
FōM for Every Memorial Design
The color of flowers can also help create positive emotions for those grieving.
- Traditional white flowers are the most common at funerals and represent sympathy, faith, and honor.
- Red flowers denote love and loyalty as well as strength.
- Green and blue are linked to calmness and tranquility.
- Blue can also represent condolences, peace, and serenity.
- Brighter colors, such as yellow and pink, are associated with happiness, happy memories, and are mood-boosting.
- Purple reflects royalty as well as pride, dignity, and respect.