What goes on a wreath ribbon
The ribbon on a funeral wreath carries a short farewell message and the name of the person or group sending it. The space is small, so the message is only a few words.
Usually two ribbons are used: one bearing the message — for example 'Rest in peace' — and the other the name or relationship of the sender.
How to word the message
A few simple rules guide what to write:
- Short — just a few words, to fit the ribbon
- Sober — a tone of respectful, restrained grief
- Clear — name or relationship of the sender
- Accurate — check the name and message for spelling before printing
Messages from the immediate family
The immediate family writes warm, personal messages alongside their relationship:
- Forever in our hearts — your children
- We will never forget you — your family
- With deepest love — your wife
- Goodbye, dear Mum — your children and grandchildren
- In eternal memory — the whole family
Messages from a spouse
For a husband or wife, the message is the most personal:
- Goodbye, my love
- I will love you always — your wife
- With grief beyond words — your husband
- You will be in my heart forever
Messages from children and grandchildren
Children and grandchildren often choose messages of gratitude and love:
- Thank you for everything, Dad
- Dear Grandad, we carry you in our hearts
- With love and gratitude — your children
- Rest gently, Mum — your sons and daughters
Messages from colleagues and organisations
On behalf of a team or company, the tone is sober and formal:
- In deepest respect — your colleagues
- With esteem and gratitude — the team
- With sincere condolences — your workmates
- We will not forget you — your colleagues at [organisation]
Messages from friends
Close friends write warm messages, less intimate than family:
- Rest in peace, dear friend
- You will stay in our memory
- Goodbye, dear friend — your friends
- With love and sorrow
Religious messages for the ribbon
A religious note on the ribbon is fitting for a family of faith:
- May God grant you rest
- Rest in eternal peace
- Rest gently in the Lord's light
- May you rest where there is no pain
How the ribbon is attached
Ribbons are pinned to the wreath or spray so they hang at the front, with the message clearly visible. The florist or funeral home prepares and writes them to your specification.
Just give us the message and the name — we handle the writing and placement. See also the guide on flowers at a funeral.
Messages from a brother or sister
For a sibling, the message combines grief with the bond of family, in a few words:
- Goodbye, dear brother
- You will always be my sister
- With love, your brothers and sisters
- We will not forget you, dear sister
Very short messages — two or three words
When the ribbon space is very limited, a two- or three-word message is entirely appropriate:
- Rest in peace
- Forever missed
- In loving memory
- Always remembered
- With love always
Messages from a neighbour or acquaintance
For a colleague, neighbour, or acquaintance, the tone is warm but less intimate than family:
- Safe travels, dear neighbour
- With respect — your neighbours
- An unforgettable neighbour
- With sincere regret — those who knew you
How we help
We prepare the wreath or spray and write the ribbon with the message you choose, ready to be placed at the ceremony. We'll help you find the right wording for your relationship.
We're available around the clock. For a conversation with no obligations, call us or see our floral arrangements.