Flowers for a hospital visit or a condolence

Flowers for a happy occasion are easy to choose. Flowers for a hospital room or a house in mourning need more thought, and people often ask us to decide for them.

For a hospital visit, first check the ward. Many ICUs and some general wards in Pune hospitals do not allow fresh flowers at all. For private rooms, send a small arrangement in a vase rather than a large wrapped bouquet, because there is rarely a vase or space by the bed. Choose flowers with little scent and no loose pollen: gerberas, carnations, roses or a small potted orchid. Avoid strong-smelling lilies and tuberose.

For a condolence, white and pale colours are usual: white roses, white chrysanthemums, lilies and rajnigandha. In many Maharashtrian homes a simple white flower garland for the photograph of the person who has passed is more welcome than a bouquet. We make these to order in about two hours, from ₹650.

Keep the card short. For a hospital, “Thinking of you, get well soon” is enough. For a condolence, the name of the person, a line such as “With deepest sympathy” and your name is right. We write every card by hand, and if you are unsure of wording, tell us your relationship and we will suggest a line. Condolence deliveries are made quietly, without a call ahead, unless you ask us to call.