Newspaper Rethinks 'In Lieu of'

Kentucky residents will soon see less of the "in lieu of flowers" phrase in obituaries, thanks to florist Ramsey Kraft of Nanz and Kraft Florist in Louisville, Ky. Kraft mailed several obituaries containing the "in lieu of flowers" phrase from The (Louisville, Ky.) Courier-Journal to SAF. An SAF representative, in turn, contacted the newspaper to offer alternative phrases and explained how the phrase is unnecessary. The paper agreed.

Denise Ivey, the newspaper's president and publisher writes: "I understand (SAF's) concerns about the 'in lieu of flowers' in our newspaper's obituary notices. I have discussed your concerns with my managers, and we are fine with your suggestions unless, of course, the family insists on saying, 'in lieu of flowers.' As I'm sure you understand, we cannot deny a family's specific request. Beginning August 31, The Courier-Journal will offer our customers an alternative phrase."

Is the "in lieu of" phrase rampant in your newspaper? Fax obituary clips to SAF at (703) 836-8705. Visit www.safnow.org/marketing/inlieu.cfm for more information.

-- Julia Sydnor
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