College campuses are communities where everyone connects over a love of learning. But outside the classrooms and activities, personal losses become something that everyone grieves together. And if you’re part of a tight-knit college campus, you might not be sure if sending flowers is an appropriate gesture of support.

Generally, yes, flowers are appropriate at campus memorials, but there are some specific details to weigh. Read on as we outline when flowers are the right choice and what you should do.

Showing Support with Flowers

Flowers are an excellent way to demonstrate support and concern in trying times. After a loss, flowers can offer comfort and joy, and they’re an appropriate choice for vigils, funerals, or celebrations of life. They can also add visual splendor to memorial displays or more intimate gatherings within a residence hall.

Although flowers are often a go-to contribution for memorials, it’s best to treat each situation differently. While some services may request flowers, others may prefer a monetary donation or another sign of support. Ask those coordinating the event for insights first.

Choosing the Right Arrangements

Campus memorials don’t require elaborate floral displays to be meaningful. In fact, more modest bouquets and arrangements featuring one or two types of flowers can work well. They’re also easier to carry and display.

From a budget standpoint, you can expect to pay as little as $25 for a small arrangement, while larger bouquets could fetch over $100. Peonies, roses, and orchids tend to be among the more expensive flowers.

When in doubt, work with an experienced florist to understand the best options. They can guide you toward anything from sympathy funeral flowers to more robust arrangements. They’ll also walk you through delivery information, plus the etiquette involved in presenting sympathy flowers.

Contributing Flowers Together

You don’t have to be a close personal friend of someone who is experiencing loss to send flowers. You don’t have to be a gardener with homegrown flowers ready to bundle and present, either.

Yes, intimate friends or classmates can send flowers to the family members of a fallen friend. But larger groups, such as residence halls or on-campus organizations, can send flowers, too. Similarly, groups of faculty or staff may band together to contribute toward an arrangement.

Considering Meanings and Traditions

Before purchasing flowers, weigh the symbolism of different colors and blooms. For instance, pink has long been considered a way to show thoughtfulness and compassion. Blue usually communicates a sense of calm and serenity.

White is always a classic choice for sympathy flowers. Its purity suggests peacefulness, joy, and remembrance. Similarly, purple flowers can signify dignity, respect, and faithfulness.

Additionally, be sure to look at cultural norms when you’re thinking of sending flowers. In many cases, flowers may be an appropriate gesture. But in other cases, candles, donations, or other signs of remembrance are more suitable.

Making a Meaningful Gesture

For campus memorials, flowers are usually an appropriate and well-received offering. Consider what level of bouquet is right given your connection to the event, and look into partnering with others on an arrangement. Further, know that it’s always wise to confirm that flowers are welcome from an event organizer.

With some thoughtful decisions, you can provide those experiencing loss with a beautiful and touching show of support.