Memorial Day and Flowers

Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May. It was formally known as Decoration Day and commemorates all men and women, who have died in military service for the United States. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on Memorial Day and it is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season.

What do people do?

It is traditional to fly the flag of the United States at half mast from dawn until noon. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials to honor everyone, who has died, and those, who have died in military service, in particular. Many volunteers place flowers, and an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries. Memorial Day is combined with Jefferson Davis' Birthday in Mississippi.

Background

Memorial Day started as an event to honor Union soldiers, who had died during the American Civil War. It was inspired by the way people in the Southern states honored their dead. After World War I, it was extended to include all men and women, who died in any war or military action.

Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. The current name for this day did not come into use until after World War II. Decoration Day and then Memorial Day used to be held on May 30, regardless of the day of the week, on which it fell. In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill was passed as part of a move to use federal holidays to create three-day weekends. This meant that that, from 1971, Memorial Day holiday has been officially observed on the last Monday in May. However, it took a longer period for all American states to recognize the new date.

Remember with Flowers

Monday, May 31th is Memorial Day. Your local florist can provide fresh or silk flowers for honoring the memory of your loved ones. There are many options available when taking flowers to a gravesite. Many people choose a cone arrangement, which can be placed into the ground.

Here are some things to keep in mind when taking loose fresh flowers to a gravesite. If you will be placing them in a cone, you should take a couple of supplies with you. A pair of scissors and a jug of water. When you arrive at the gravesite, place the cone in the ground. If you have floral preservative add this to the cone first. Fill the cone with water 3/4 full. Remove the leaves that fall below the water line from the stems. Finally clip off an inch or so from the bottom of the stems and place the flowers into the cone. You can then arrange the flowers to fill in the cone.

Silk floral designs can also be created. Ask your local florist for silk floral suggestions and design options for memorial pieces. Bouquets, Wreaths and Custom Memorial Design forms are all popular choices in silk flowers. You can even customize the design to reflect military service (red, white & blue flowers, flag design, etc.) to honor your loved one's service.

Memorial Day has also become a popular time for Family Reunions and Get Togethers. Consider having your local florist create centerpieces for your weekend celebration.

We suggest ordering your memorial flowers a few days ahead of time to ensure the best selection. Remember to ensure your floral order is filled to value, order direct from a local florist. No middleman, No extra fees!

Tenley McDonald- Former Florist- Now Co-Owner of [http://www.flowerpowernetwork.com] (Online Directory of Real Local Florists) Ms. McDonald has over 14 years experience in ~Consumer Relations/Marketing ~Customer Service Management ~Floral Design.