Parents, it’s time to spring into action. We all know the Easter bunny brings treats to the kiddos around the world, but when it comes to our older children, some say they are best left out of the juvenile Easter traditions.

Yes, Easter is around the corner. Remember, it is no bunny’s business whether your family does Easter baskets for your teenagers or not, but if you do, boy do we have the teenage Easter basket inspiration for you.

It’s a one-sided conversation for many. What is it that you should buy your teenager for Easter? There are many people in the world who think Easter baskets are not for teenagers and young adolescents. While many are opposed, that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the fun that comes with choosing Easter gifts for your teens.

What are the best gifts for teenagers for Easter? Compiling treats for Easter baskets for teens can be a fun and creative experience. With teenage years coming and going swiftly and ups and downs coming so abruptly, it is best to celebrate our teens whenever we can.

An Easter Basket that is “Funny and Useful”

If you are a little salty about giving your teenager an Easter gift basket because you think they are too grown, avoid the sweets and have fun with the schemes. You’ll find it funny. They may not, but hey, they still get an Easter basket that they so persistently requested.

Play dirty with a cleaning supply Easter basket. You’ll need a laundry basket for the base. What goes inside is completely up to you. If you feel this approach is a little too harsh, consider having a secondary Easter basket on hand as a sweet incentive.

When their room is clean and their chores are done, their Easter basket of goodies will be waiting on them. It puts the ball in their court. It is an Easter basket hunt. Once they make it to the end of their to-do list, they’ll find the Easter basket they desired on the other side.

An Easter Basket That Collects “All Their Favorite Things”

Creating your teen’s Easter basket can be a lot of fun too. Start from the basis of who your teen is and what they enjoy the most.

If your teenager loves makeup, use that as a source for inspiration. You know you’ll have to buy your teen more makeup soon anyway. Collect some of the essentials and assort them into a cute makeup carrying case. Throw in a couple of new items or a gift card if you are feeling extra generous.

The same applies to the sports-loving children of the world. If your teen needs a new baseball helmet, you can knock Easter out of the park. Make the helmet the base of a basket and add in some sunflower seeds, batting gloves, gum and some other must-haves to complete this homerun Easter look.

For the teens prepping for college, their ideal Easter basket is thrown together with ease. Collect some of their favorite junk foods, a few gift cards for groceries, for lunch and some comforting keepsakes for their dorm. A warm blanket, lotion, new socks and other simple tokens are bound to win them over and start gathering college supplies in the process.

An Easter Basket That Will Have Others “Green with Envy”

Among the most popular trends of the 21st century is the desire to go green. This trend has carried on through people’s clothing choices, daily habits, dietary decisions and overall resourcefulness.

This trend is particularly popular among our younger generations. Teens today are growing attached to this movement. With that in mind, you’ll find an Easter basket idea for your teen that is both good for the earth and will have others green with envy.

Your teen may have a green thumb or may just appreciate the ambiance plants and other florals bring. Either way, an Easter basket for the teen with a green theme is ideal. Among the more preferred gestures is receiving plants as gifts. Additionally, succulent gifts are among the most popular choice for natural décor in homes today. They are beautiful and trend-forward.

Your teen’s “green” Easter basket can consist of gardening tools and other useful essentials for remaining green. This is especially appropriate for the teen who appreciates the beauty in nature and all the benefits that come with caring for plants.

Our florists at Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts in Powell, WY, are here to help with any floral or plant needs you may have this Easter. Easter gifts can be as diverse as the teens in our lives. That is why Easter flowers are always a beautiful option. Deciding what to get a teenager for Easter doesn’t have to be hard. Easter flowers can be personalized to fit your teen and everything they like. Let us help you create a beautiful gift for your teenager this Easter.

There is something special about sharing natural beauty with others. Easter flower delivery just makes it easier. Giving a green Easter basket to your teen will not only share the beauty that is life, but it will help instill responsibility and direction into their daily habits. It is a life lesson and an Easter gift wrapped into one. Anything worth having is worth taking care of, right?

With all these Easter baskets for teens in mind, you can customize them to fit who your teen is and what they like. It is always fun to add in some Easter eggs and chocolate bunnies for a festive touch. Whatever you decide, Easter baskets for teens are a must.

Somewhere between winter break and summer break, the week of spring break is there beckoning with the promise and appeal of warmth instead of extreme cold or heat. Spring break is the whisper of a vacation without the hectic holidays of winter or the potential boredom of summer to bring it down.

Of course, the existence and potential enjoyment of spring break is not surprising. Spring break isn’t a new concept. Colleges may have popularized the modern interpretation of spring break, but the partying that coincides with celebrating spring has been going on since the ancient Greeks and Romans celebrated the arrival of spring by honoring the god of wine.

It can be easy to ignore spring break, especially if you and/or your loved ones aren’t in school, but this time of year is perfect for a needed vacation. It’s 2020, and it’s a new decade. We have spring break ideas to fit every situation.

Spring Break Travel Destinations for Families

A parent’s priority isn’t finding a party, so the most popular and well-known spring break destinations often won’t coincide with family-friendly fun. For a beach within reach and without the rowdy antics of the party crowd, consider some of Florida’s destinations.

Cocoa Beach is a quaint surf town on the Atlantic coast of Florida that has family-run inns and beautiful beaches. Close to a wildlife drive in Merritt Island and Port Canaveral, there is a pier, a trolley and of course, the gorgeous beach all in one location.

Another Florida destination that has enough appeal for everyone in the family is Panama City Beach on the west coast. Not only does this city have powdery beaches, there are fishing trips, dolphin-spotting tours and air boat rides that explore nature.

For the west coast, Carlsbad in California offers theme parks, museums, beaches and Lego Land. It is also close to the San Diego Zoo. If you would rather stay in San Diego, you will still be in a family-friendly area as the beaches are patrolled by lifeguards. There is something for everyone in the family to enjoy in this part of California.

For the Midwest, think about Wisconsin Dells. Full of water parks, theme parks and family fun like campsites, dinner theaters and mini golf, this vacation locale is certain to keep everyone entertained.

Are you craving some history and fun? San Antonio, Texas offers learning opportunities and attractions. Learn about the cultures of Texas and Mexico in between visits to amusements parks, like Sea World and Six Flags, museums and of course, great restaurants and shops.

Spring Break Travel Destinations for Party People

If you are in the mood to party for spring break 2020, there are several places to celebrate spring break in style. For beachgoers, Cancun, Mexico, is still attracting plenty of partiers with low cost airfare, alcohol, hotels and surf and sun activities.

With the beach and the club, Cancun has a lot to offer. It is no surprise that it has maintained a reputation and is still a premier spring break destination in 2020. In Cancun, you can party with people from all over the world.

Another beautiful beach locale is the U.S. Virgin Islands. English is the language; no passport is required, and U.S. dollars are used for currency here. This is a comfortable place for American tourists. St. Thomas is the most happening with a lot of nightlife.

If you don’t want to stray that far for your sun and party fix, Key West is waiting with bars for pub crawls on a beautiful island where everyone is welcome.

For warm weather, affordable stays and a partygoer’s fantasy come to life, South Padre Island draws spring breakers to Texas. It may not be an obvious choice, but in recent years, this has become the spring break place of pool parties, beach bars and dancing.

If you aren’t interested in the beaches, Park City in Utah is beckoning with skiing and snowboarding opportunities. There is snow in the Wasatch Mountains all the way until April, and there is fun nightlife too. This makes it perfect for a spring break 2020 getaway.

Sin city may not be an obvious choice for spring break, but this time of year is when Las Vegas really goes wild. Along with the nightclubs, bars, casinos and unique, fantasy-themed hotels, this city hosts awesome afternoon pool parties.

For another party spot with a different flavor, check out New Orleans. The Big Easy offers drinks, colorful beads, amazing jazz and flavorful Cajun and Creole cuisine.

Staying Home –Spring Break Ideas

Even if you aren’t leaving town, spring break should be acknowledged and enjoyed. Before the week begins, give yourself and your space a makeover. Change up your hair, get some spring break outfits together and plan some activities.

For giving your space a makeover, start by clearing clutter the weekend before spring break. Clean your space and buy some beautiful things to make you feel more creative and inspired. Pick out a beautiful spring bouquet to get you in the mood to celebrate spring. Our florists at Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts in Powell, WY, can put together the perfect flower arrangement for your space.

Plan some activities to make yourself feel like a spring break tourist. Go to some concerts, museums, hike or find a pool, beach or lake to visit. Make the most of your time and take pics as if you are rediscovering where you live. There is nothing wrong with being a tourist in your own area.

Spend time with good friends and family away from the distractions of technology. In the evening, try to find time to read or learn something new. Spring break is also an opportunity for self-improvement.

No matter what your situation is and whether you stay or go, don’t let spring break pass you by unnoticed. After all, fun is a state of mind.

Easter is a meaningful holiday, but not everyone can be present for it. It can be difficult to feel like you are a part of Easter celebrations with loved ones when you live too far away. However, that doesn’t mean the holiday needs to go by unobserved.

Easter is a holiday full of significance and symbolism for those who observe it. If you can’t be there for Easter, you can still send a little something to let them know you are thinking of them on this very special holiday. If you are uncertain of what gift to pick, we have a list of gifts that will get to them quick, and they are Easter Bunny approved!

Books

From those who are still learning first words and what sounds accompany letters to those with fading sight necessitating thick glasses and large print, books can bring a new perspective and a glimpse of a different reality. The right story at the right time can bring light, hope and understanding.

There is no shortage of wonderful books on any topic, both online and in the store. Easter is no exception. Despite how important books are, they remain an inexpensive gift, but then again, you can’t put a price tag on learning.

For a new baby, board books are a great introduction to reading and stories. There is a delightful board book with beautiful illustrations designed for babies called, “My First Easter.” This is a very durable book explaining the traditions of family and sharing for Easter.

Another cute board book for little ones is called, “Easter” by Roger Priddy and is a Slide and Find Series book. There are 16 fun, interactive doors to open, Behind each door are Easter-related things like chicks, eggs and of course, bunnies.

For children over four years of age for whom religious stories are acceptable gifts, there is a book called, “The Easter Storybook: 40 Bible Stories Showing Who Jesus Is.”

This book brings Jesus into focus and tells the overall arching story of his entire life, making him more real and relatable. When you bring Jesus to life for children, Easter inevitably becomes more meaningful.

For a fun classic, The Berenstain Bears series by Mike Berenstain have several cute, illustrated books about Easter.

Another great book for religious households that is written in a way the whole family can enjoy is “The World Jesus Knew: A Curious Kid’s Guide to Life in the First Century.”

This book brings the world of Jesus to life through charts, maps, graphs, info on the culture of the time, occupations, religion and more. With beautiful illustrations, this book can bring the stories of Jesus to life for kids and adults.

For spiritual stories adults and children can read together on Easter, consider a book like “Easter Stories: Classic Tales for the Holy Season.” This book includes a collection of classic and spiritual short stories that capture the meaning of Easter by famous authors like C.S. Lewis, Leo Tolstoy and Oscar Wilde to name a few.

For a woman who enjoys religious stories with intriguing female characters, look no further than “The Women of Easter: Encounter the Savior with Mary of Bethany, Mary of Nazareth, and Mary Magdalene.”

Any woman or even man who appreciates the stories about the life of Jesus will enjoy these coinciding stories about the women who were important in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

Toys

When it comes to gifts for children, you can’t go wrong with toys. There are many cute and inexpensive options when it comes to toys with an Easter theme.

A classic and adorable plush toy can make a cherished gift that will be hugged long after Easter. There are Peter Rabbit plush toys in the recognizable little blue coat and the Velveteen Rabbit among other adorable stuffed bunnies with options for all age groups.

Plush ducks and lambs are also options if you fear the bunny may too closely relate to a gift someone else might be giving.

When it comes to Easter gifts for teenagers, plush animals can still be an option if you know what might spark interest. There are weird collectible plush toys called, “Fuglers” that have creepy teeth and funny bodies. There is a Rabid Rabbit one that will likely bring a smile to teenagers who mistakenly assume stuffed animals can’t be cool.

For teenagers who love animals and care about the environment, consider a plush toy that coincides with the symbolic donation in their name for an endangered species.

For smaller toys, Calico Critters make a cute rabbit family and have an abundance of accessories. Also, there are many options for little plastic eggs filled with fun toys like dinosaurs, trucks and animal finger puppets.

Hide and Squeak Eggs are a fun, educational gift for toddlers. Many young children are reluctant to take a bath, so getting them cute bath toys or even Easter soaps in fun shapes might be appreciated by both the child and parent.

Creative Crafts and Family Fun

LEGO has a holiday Easter Egg Hunt Building Kit that the whole family can enjoy together. An Easter egg or Easter bunny puzzle is another way for the family to spend a relaxing time together.

For games this Easter, there is an Easter Bingo game and an Easter edition deck of cards for the family to have a good time playing classic games like Go Fish, Old Maid and Slap Jack.

For little ones, there are many options for toys with matching eggs to teach color recognition. There are also Easter-themed bath toys for the little ones.

There are craft kits for making Easter Bunny headbands and masks. Pin the Tail on the Easter Bunny game can be fun for the whole family, and a Dig a Dozen Dino Eggs kit is a fun activity for fostering an appreciation for science as they excavate fossilized eggs of dinosaurs.

Other craft kits include egg-decorating, sand art and beading. To get the family active and outdoors, there is an Egg and Spoon Race game that will offer fun and activity long after Easter.

Any of these Easter gift options are a great way to encourage the family to spend time together, having a good time and enjoying each other.

Flowers for Easter

Living away, it can be difficult to know what Easter gift to buy. If you have waited until right before the holiday, you might have the additional concern of the gift not being delivered until after Easter has passed.

For a lovely last-minute Easter gift, flowers are a reminder of the fragile beauty of life, and they are a beloved representation of spring. Flowers in pastel colors or bright, fun colors are a perfect spring gift. Many people love receiving tulips and daisies, as they are a symbol of spring.

For a meaningful Easter bloom, white lilies are the traditional Easter flower. They represent love, hope and resurrection. Whichever flower you choose, you can feel confident knowing that receiving flowers makes people feel happy and loved.

If you would like to send someone you love some flowers this Easter, our florists at Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts in Powell, WY, would be glad to create a beautiful Easter bouquet for your loved ones.

These gifts are all inexpensive and can be combined with flowers. The best part is that some of these gifts will encourage families to spend time together to delve into what Easter means. Whether you are thinking of a small child, a teenager, an adult or all the above this Easter, being thoughtful and sending a little something to make someone happy aligns with the spirit of the holiday.

You love him, but he is hard to shop for, especially for Valentine’s Day. Heart-shaped candies and oversized plush animals may not be the way to win over your boyfriend or husband’s heart on Valentine’s Day. Regardless, if your man is a romantic at heart or a skeptic by nature, the goal of planning a Valentine’s Day he will actually enjoy is achievable.

They are commonly asked questions. What should I do for my husband on Valentine’s Day, or what should I do for my boyfriend on Valentine’s Day? Sorry, there aren’t direct answers.

It’s a challenge, but it is a challenge you can handle. You love him and want to be able to express that in a fun way on such a romantic holiday. Get past the barrier that is your husband or boyfriend’s gift list and plan a Valentine’s Day he’ll enjoy with these helpful tips.

Learn His Love Language.

Nagging him isn’t working and asking him what he wants may feel like you are extracting information from a criminal. Have you ever considered that you just aren’t picking up what he is putting down? You may be one of the most observant people in the world, but unless you understand how your significant other communicates, you will remain in the dust.

We all have our own unique love language, including the man in your life. A person’s love language isn’t always depicted through verbal conversation. The code is often cracked through a person’s actions and their nonverbal signals.

It isn’t always as simple as asking. In all fairness, many people don’t know how to communicate their love language, so don’t hold it against your boyfriend or husband. Just as you wouldn’t want them to hold it against you. They might be struggling with the same things you are. Trust us.

In order to plan a Valentine’s Day he’ll enjoy; you have to show him you know him. This can be done through unique Valentine’s Day gifts for him or through a well-thought-out Valentine’s Day date.

Relationships should never be one-sided. For them to work, the two parties have to be willing to work, supporting the other and understanding what makes the other tick.

Treat Him.

There are great Valentine’s Day gifts for men out there. They just may not be what you think.

Surprise him with his favorite coffee along with a hand-written love note. Have his favorite lunch delivered to work or better yet, bring it to him. Think about it. How much do those small, spontaneous gestures mean to you, or what is in your heart that you so desperately desire.?

That is your love language.

Just as you can’t read his mind, he can’t read yours. Cracking his love language often boils down the willingness to be observant and vulnerable to your partner. It may take some time. That’s okay. Communication is important, but it isn’t always key. Comprehension is. When you can comprehend the words and actions of your partner’s love language, treating him gets a whole lot easier.

What to do For Your Boyfriend or Husband on Valentine’s Day

It isn’t commonly discussed, but the status of your relationship is another determining factor in which you should base your gifts for him this Valentine’s Day. Is this your first Valentine’s Day together? Have you been dating for three weeks or one year? Are you casually dating, in a committed relationship or are you married?

These factors have a lot to do with the extravagance of your Valentine’s Day gift for him. All these answers will give you a better idea what gifts may be desirable to your male suiter’s mind. You will have to use your own judgment as to what fits your relationship status for the time.

Those heart-shaped candies may not be his thing, but that doesn’t mean gifting him his favorite treats won’t have him smiling from ear to ear this Valentine’s Day. A well-assembled treat bag or basket is a great gift for a new relationship or a great base gift to pair with another for the man in your life.

If you are looking for a more personal gift, consider gifting him some flirty photos of yourself. The photo quality can range from a professionally done boudoir photoshoot, or you can have some pics taken of you in his favorite t-shirt and ballcap. It’s a simple and easy way to personalize any gift, simple or extravagant, and he is bound to love it.

The Way to His Heart

Contrary to popular belief, there are Valentine’s Day gifts for men that they will actually enjoy. With these tips in mind, this Valentine’s Day should be about showing the special man in your life how much you care and how much you pay attention to what he wants or needs.

Plan that trip he has been dreaming of, treat him to dinner and do the little, simple things he loves to show him you care.

The way to his heart may be through his stomach, but the way to a long-lasting life together is through the constant pursuit of his heart, mind and soul. It is about trying to learn something new, being willing to fight for each other and the overarching goal of falling back in love with each other every day.

Our florists at Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts in Powell, WY, want to help you make this a Valentine’s Day that is special to him too. We would be happy to make the centerpiece for your date night or to create a basket full of goodies he’ll love. We even offer delivery, so you’ll have more time to get everything, including yourself, ready for the evening. It is all about the bare necessities after all.

Men want to feel loved too. Consider taking over the planning this Valentine’s Day. After all, you are a professional now.

Happy planning. We hope it is a Valentine’s Day you and he will never forget.

The times are changing, and the way funerals are conducted reflects the changing times and a shift in attitude about death. For some, this means that a funeral is less about religion and more about celebrating someone’s life in a more personal way. For others, the rising costs of funerals led to at-home services or memorial services held in places like parks, beaches and other natural locations that were meaningful to the deceased.

Speaking of natural, for people concerned about the environment, there are also eco-burials and services. Eco-burials eliminate the harmful chemicals used in embalming and involve burial with a biodegradable coffin.

Another interesting change is that in recent years, cremation surpassed burial. Cremation is much less expensive, and in some areas, there is an option for a water cremation. This is ideal for those concerned with the fumes expelled by traditional cremations.

Religions and cultures vary greatly in funeral practices. Cultural differences may include spiritual practices involving nature, like those practiced by Wiccans. Some faiths are very minimalist when it comes to funeral traditions, and some are grandiose. Some faiths demand modesty and avoidance of certain colors.

With changes to some funeral traditions and the cultural differences in funeral customs that you may encounter, it can be difficult to know how you should appropriately express sympathy and condolences when someone’s beliefs may be different from your own. Don’t worry. We have some practical advice regarding how to express your sympathy and whether it is appropriate to send flowers.

Non-traditional Funerals

Non-traditional can encompass a variety of different types of funerals and beliefs. Typically, non-traditional funerals may be held in a place that had meaning for the deceased. For example, someone who surfed might be memorialized at the beach. Someone who enjoyed nature might have a memorial service in a park or by a lake.

For non-traditional services, the most important part is celebrating what made the person unique. The memorial should celebrate in a personal way. If you would like to send flowers, find out what flowers he or she favored and consider adding something to the arrangement that would reflect an attribute or hobby of the deceased. When expressing your condolences, make your words heartfelt and specific to the individual.

Eco-Funerals

Eco-funerals are for the environmentally conscious, so it is often inappropriate to send cut flowers. Sending a plant would be a better alternative, but the deceased may have wished for donations in lieu of flowers. Bringing meals to the family is another way to show you care.

These funerals may take place in a funeral home or in a natural setting. Sometimes the body is buried in a shroud, and in other cases, a coffin made of a natural material like wool or wicker, is used. Some cemeteries do offer spaces for eco-burials. If a nature burial is chosen, there will probably not be a headstone or marker, but the burial will be in a beautiful setting in nature.

Due to the ever-rising costs of traditional funerals and burials, changing attitudes about the environment and the desire to return to nature and the natural, eco-burials are expected to gain popularity.

Jewish Funerals

Jewish funerals are very simple and symbolic. Like eco-funerals, the body is not embalmed and is often wrapped in a shroud and placed in a natural wooden coffin to encourage decomposition. Male guests to the service are expected to wear a jacket and tie with a yarmulke as a head covering. Women do not need head covering but should dress very conservative with no revealing or colorful clothing.

Many Jewish funerals are held entirely by the gravesite, but some may be held in a synagogue or funeral home. The service begins with a rabbi cutting a black cloth to symbolize the individual breaking away from life, and the remainder of the service is recitation of prayers. The family typically places dirt on the coffin before it is buried.

Flowers and wreaths are not appropriate for a Jewish funeral. Donations to charities and Jewish organizations and kosher food are welcome. There is also a seven-day period of mourning called Shiva, and during that time, it is considered a thoughtful deceased gesture to send fruit baskets, condolence baskets with chocolates or to plant a tree in Israel in memory of the deceased.

If you visit the family during this time, they may cover mirrors, burn candles and refrain from normal daily activities to show that death is an interruption of life.

Buddhist Funerals

Buddhist funeral traditions vary between different traditions and countries. Although Buddhists do not believe death is an end but a transition from one life to another, it is acceptable to show grief. Mourners may walk with sticks to symbolize the difficulty of carrying the weight of grief.

An altar to the deceased will display a portrait and offerings of candles, incense, flowers and fruit. An image of the Buddha will also be present. Flowers, donations and fruit baskets are appreciated. The appropriate color for flowers is white, and the color red should be avoided.

When you arrive, you should walk up to the altar, bow your head and have your hands before you and together in prayer to show respect. If you are not Buddhist, you should not speak to the family before the funeral.

The family usually wears white, and the service includes chanting and ringing of gongs. Guests should wear dark, loose clothing and avoid jewelry and the color red. Most Buddhists are cremated because Buddha was cremated, but some choose burial.

If there are monks present at the service, they perform last rites before the casket is sealed and carried off by family members. During that time, those in attendance should send good thoughts and accept the impermanence of life.

Muslim Funerals

The Muslim faith values simplicity and moderation. Like some of the other funeral customs listed above, the body is wrapped in a shroud. Once wrapped, a rope is tied at the top of the head and another below the feet. One or two ropes are tied around the middle of the body. The religion forbids embalming and cremation.

At the funeral, men and women are separate, with women traditionally seated at the back. An Imam or the oldest male relative stands at the front with his back to the mourners. He is directly in front of the body facing Mecca. He presents the funeral prayer. The funeral is somber and mostly silent. There should be no talking.

For clothing, men should wear plain pants that do not show any skin, and the shirt should cover everything up to the neck. Nothing should fit tightly. Women should conceal everything except the face and hands.

Views on flowers vary, but since the faith values moderation, they are often not given. Instead, they sometimes prefer a donation to charity be made. If there are flowers, they are usually handled by the family. However, it never hurts to ask what is appropriate before the service.

Hindu Funerals

Like Buddhists, Hindus do not believe death is an end. Instead, it is viewed as a transition. A Hindu funeral consists of chants or mantras led by a Hindu priest.

A Hindu funeral typically takes place within one day, sometimes two, after the time of death. No gifts or flowers should be brought to the funeral, as that would be viewed as a distraction. Although flowers may be sent or brought ahead of time.

At the funeral, the body is placed in an open casket. Guests at the funeral should view the body and offer condolences to the family. Non-Hindus can simply sit quietly during the ceremony, but they are also welcomed to participate in the ritual chanting of mantras, if they would like to do so.

Mourners should wear white and dress conservatively with arms and knees covered. Black should not be worn. Excessive mourning should be avoided. It is believed the deceased is still aware of what is happening, and the sadness they sense may inhibit the soul’s journey.

There are special ceremonies that take place during cremation. After cremation, there may be a reception at the family’s home. After the period of mourning, which typically lasts 10 days, it is considered a thoughtful gesture to send fruit.

Wiccan Funerals

Wiccan funerals are similar to eco-funerals because many Wiccans prefer a natural burial without chemicals to allow quick decomposition. However, a Wiccan may opt for cremation if a natural burial isn’t possible.

If the body of the deceased is present, he or she may be laid on an altar. A priest and/or priestess conduct the ceremony and recite chants. Afterward, mourners are invited to speak. The funeral may take place outside in nature or at a private home.

Attendees may or may not form a circle. White candles and flowers may be used to represent death and rebirth as they call the goddess and speak directly to the departed. The body, ashes, a picture or a personal effect may be placed in the center of the circle.

Customs can vary greatly, but Wiccans often expect that mourners may not be aware of what is appropriate. It doesn’t hurt to ask. The desire for funeral flowers also varies. Dress for a Wiccan funeral is often more relaxed and less formal and reserved than other faiths.

No matter what kind of funeral you will be attending, it is important to remember that the funeral is not just for the deceased. The funeral also exists to help the loved ones celebrate a life and recognize and accept the passing.

If you are in doubt about etiquette regarding a funeral, don’t hesitate to ask. It is always better to err on the side of caution to avoid offending anyone at such a delicate time.

If you are looking for a way to express your condolences, our florists at Rayven’s Flowers and Gifts in Sugar Powell, WY, are here to provide a beautiful and appropriate flower, plant or fruit basket.