What is the best present for someone who is grieving?

Loss is not easy. When a friend or loved one loses someone who was close to them, we naturally want to do anything we can to help them through their grief. Offering kind words and thoughtful sympathy gifts is a way to let someone know that we care for them and to help them feel less alone in their time of sadness. The best sympathy gifts serve not only as a symbol of the giver’s concern and affection for the receiver but also as a remembrance of the person who passed away. 

Flowers are a traditional means of expressing all types of emotions. They are used as sympathy gifts, tokens of love and affection, celebrating someone’s accomplishments, and much more. Sometimes, though, it can be more thoughtful to give sympathy gifts other than flowers since flowers wilt and need to be thrown away only a few days after they are given. Read on for inspiration on more long-lasting and unique sympathy gifts to offer. 

One important factor to take into consideration is whether the person for whom you are giving a gift is of religious persuasion or not. If they are religious, which religion do they follow? Many gifts for sympathy feature motifs such as deities, angels, or references to the afterlife. For people who are not of a faith that uses these types of symbols, gifts of this nature might not have the consoling and comforting effect that the gift giver intends to relate. 

Another thing to remember is that it is never a good idea to give a live pet animal as a gift for any occasion to someone who has not asked for one. Although it is sometimes suggested that a new pet could help the bereaved take their mind off things or to heal through caring for another living thing, this is a decision that needs to be made by the person who has suffered the loss. Caring for a new pet is a big responsibility that requires a lot of time and energy. Your loved ones may not appreciate having such a large commitment thrust upon them without having any choice in the matter. Selecting a pet is a personal choice that should be left up to the person. 

With these factors to keep in mind, the following guide gives an overview of unique bereavement gifts that can help you convey your condolences and support for your loved one. 

Sympathy Gifts for Loss of Mother

It is an unfortunate truth that most people will at some point have to experience the death of their parents. The fact that it happens to all of us, however, does not make it any easier to deal with when the time comes. 

Appropriate memorial gifts for someone who has lost their mother might be a bottle of her favorite perfume, a photo family tree that can be filled in to honor the matriarch of your loved one’s family, or a throw pillow or other item embroidered with her favorite saying or quote. 

Sympathy Gifts for Loss of Father

The father’s favorite snacks or beverages are a good gift to be enjoyed in celebration of his life. Items such as tools or watches can be inscribed with a particularly memorable piece of advice, or his favorite Dad joke. 

Sentimental Gifts for Someone Who Lost a Loved One

Items intended to give comfort to the person who has experienced a loss might take into account both their physical and emotional comfort. Scented candles and bath salts help to lift spirits. Pillows, stuffed animals, and cozy blankets can provide physical comfort and represent a hug as well. Since writing has been shown to help people overcome periods of emotional turmoil, a blank diary is another thoughtful option. 

Personalized Sympathy Gifts

Remembrance gifts such as drawings or paintings of the deceased are generally very well received. Anything inscribed or printed with the name, dates of birth and death, favorite quote, or image of the loved one adds the personal touch that the receiver will likely treasure. If you do not know the deceased well, a photo frame or scrapbook allows the recipient to fill it with memories of their choosing. 

Here at Reflection of Memories we understand that loss is challenging. Which is why we strive to help you create sentimental sympathy gifts for you or your loved one. View our Sympathy Gifts collection to find the perfect gift that shows your affection and serves as a thoughtful remembrance.