Giving flowers for bereavement and at funeral in Poland

Deal all,
we have a bereavement in our in-law family in Poland. We have sent some flowers (Lillies) to the mourning household as a gesture with a note saying "Our thoughts are with you" . The funeral is next week and we will then also take with us a bouquet of flowers. (or should we do a wreath instead?)

It turns out that the flowers, which we have sent to the house might have been inappropriate. Does anyone have experience with polish bereavement etiquette?

Thank you.

Not at all. Lilies are perfectly appropriate though they are perhaps more associated with women or the death of a younger person. Nonetheless they are still a very good choice.

Wreaths are either given by a group like work colleagues or close family. A bouquet is fine from a more distant family member. It really depends on how close you were to the deceased and the size of the bunch can range from small to quite large depending on that relationship.

Flowers have different symbolism but you're absolutely safe with chrysanthemums and carnations or if you know what their favourite flower was, you can choose that. Gladioli are popular too.

As for colour, white and cream are very safe choices, purple is for mourning. I was once told by a florist in Poland not to give red flowers as these would only be suitable for a spouse.

Thank you for your reply. Is it inappropriate to send flowers to the mourning household before the funeral?
Is there a timing issue or is it ok?

It's perfectly ok to send flowers to the house especially if it is to family. Don't worry. You did nothing wrong. They will appreciate your thoughtful gesture.

What you sent was what's called a condolence bouquet in Poland 'wiązanka kondolencyjna'. These are intended for the family and are sent with an appropriate message of sympathy, exactly as you did. The funeral flowers on the other hand are sent for the deceased.

That's good. Thank you for your reply.