It can be difficult to know what to do for a loved one who is grieving. Giving a gift offers you the chance to pay your respects to the grieving family, celebrate the life of the one who passed away by giving the gift of a memento, and even offer practical support to the family at a difficult time.
Here are 10 gift ideas for a grieving friend or family member:
Food Hamper
Sometimes when grieving, it can be difficult to muster the energy to look after ourselves properly, so a food hamper is a great gift for a grieving person. You can add fresh fruit, snacks, drinks, and maybe a treat for the bereaved. If you know them well enough, you can tailor it to them by including all of their favourite things.
A Gift Basket
When we’re grieving, it can be hard to remember to take some time out for ourselves. A gift basket including some treats can remedy that, and remind the bereaved that it’s important to take some me-time. You can include some bath salts, face masks, herbal tea, a book or magazine, anything to help your loved one to take some time out.
A Memento
A keepsake to help remember their lost loved one is another gift idea for a grieving person. There are many different things available, such as photo frames, engraved jewellery and ornaments that can be inscribed with the deceased’s name.
Pre-cooked Meals
At a time when the bereaved may be busy with funeral arrangements, or just doesn’t feel like cooking, pre-made meals can be a helpful and practical gift. They’ll ensure they are still eating properly and ease their burden a little bit, as they won’t have to worry about cooking on top of everything else.
A Treat
Something just for the bereaved, such as their favourite chocolates, a spa day, a bottle of wine - if you’re a baker you could make them a tasty treat, something to help them to focus on their own needs.
Candles
A scented candle is the perfect way to give the bereaved a little light in a dark time in their life. Scented candles are known for their ability to help people to relax, which can be difficult to do when grieving.
A Personal Gift
If you know the bereaved well, you could get them something personal to them. What is their favourite hobby? If they’re into cooking, maybe some new kitchen utensils or a recipe book; a new set of crayons or paints if they’re artistic; or a gift card for a class relating to their hobby is always a good idea too.
A Memorial Tree
If the bereaved has the garden space, a memorial tree is an excellent idea for a gift. It can be planted in a pot so they can take it with them if they were to move in the future, and it will serve as a place to remember and feel close to the person who passed away. An engraved plant pot is an idea for smaller gardens.
Flowers
This is the traditional option, though it is important to bear in mind that they may already be inundated with flowers from people. However, it is a classic gift for a reason; flowers serve to brighten up a home and remind the bereaved that you are thinking of them.
Sympathy Card
If you don’t know the bereaved very well, or are just unsure what to get them, sending a sympathy card lets them know you are thinking of them at this difficult time.
At the end of the day, any gift given to the grieving person will let them know you are thinking of them, and will be appreciated whatever it is.
Thank you for reading.
If you would like to read more about how to support a friend who is grieving, then take a look at this article:
How to support a friend who is grieving
