Funeral tribute
Standing Sprays
A standing spray is a flat-backed, fan- or teardrop-shaped arrangement displayed upright on a tripod or easel beside the coffin. At eye level rather than lying flat, it is one of the most visible tributes in the room.
Standing sprays are built in floral foam on a rigid frame, with the florist supplying the easel. Designs range from formal all-white arrangements of lilies and roses to brighter mixed displays. They read as a respectful tribute, a step up in presence from a wreath.
In the UK they are a common choice for groups: a workplace, a sports club or a branch of the extended family will often contribute together to one substantial standing spray rather than sending several small tributes.
The florist delivers the spray and easel to the funeral director or directly to the crematorium chapel before the service, and staff position it. Afterwards it is moved outside with the other tributes.
When to Choose Standing Sprays
- A standing spray suits senders who want a substantial, formal tribute but are not the immediate family, since the coffin usually carries the family's casket spray.
- It works well as a joint tribute from colleagues, club members or friends, with one card naming everyone who contributed.
- Choose one when the service is at a venue with space for displayed flowers, such as a church or crematorium chapel; for a small graveside service a wreath or sheaf is more practical.
- Do not send one if the family has asked for family flowers only or donations in lieu.
Typical Price Range
£80–£250 depending on size, flowers, and florist
Prices vary by florist, flowers chosen, and size of arrangement.
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Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a standing spray and a casket spray?
A casket spray lies flat on top of the coffin and is reserved for the immediate family. A standing spray is displayed upright on an easel beside the coffin, so anyone can send one without competing with the family's tribute.
Do I need to supply the easel or stand?
No. The florist provides the tripod or easel with the arrangement and the funeral director's staff set it up at the venue. The florist or venue usually collects the stand afterwards.
What size should a standing spray be?
Most are between two and three feet tall, sitting at roughly chest height on the easel. Larger displays exist for big venues, but the standard size suits almost all UK services.
Can several people club together for one?
Yes, and this is very common for workplaces and clubs. One person places the order, the cost is shared, and the card names the group.
What happens to it after the funeral?
At a crematorium it is placed on the flower terrace with the other tributes for the family to view. After a burial it is usually laid at the graveside.
Related Guides
- Can You Send Flowers to a Crematorium?How to send funeral flowers to a crematorium, how deliveries work on the day, and what happens to the tributes after the service.
- How to Choose Funeral FlowersA practical guide to choosing the right funeral flowers for your loved one's service.
- Funeral Flower Etiquette in the UKA clear guide to who sends funeral flowers in the UK, what to do when the family asks for "family flowers only", and how to get the timing and wording right.
- Wreath vs Spray vs Casket ArrangementHow wreaths, sprays and casket arrangements differ in shape, placement and price, and how to choose the right one for your relationship and budget.