Flowers are frequently seen as the go-to condolence gift for a loved one. They can be sent to the bereaved directly or you can offer them as floral tributes sent to the funeral director so they can be involved in the funeral service itself.
Regardless, flower arrangements might not always be the best gift for everyone, in fact, some people request they do not be given. It may even be the case that you know that the bereaved individual doesn’t have a preference for flowers; perhaps you’re also concerned that they would consider them a waste of money and the money spent on them could go towards a better cause. Perhaps it may even be the case that you may want to show your loved one that you care but in a slightly different way!
In this blog, we will outline to you a couple of alternative gifts you can give a loved one during what is undoubtedly a very difficult time.
A cuddly toy or blanket
When an individual is experiencing grief, a little bit of comfort can go a long way. A simple gift such as a high-quality blanket or throw, a soft pillow, or stuffed toy (particularly for younger adults or children) which can be cuddled and provides physical as well as emotional ease. You can even get blankets, pillows or cuddly toys with personalised quotes embroidered on them if you wanted the gift to be personalised.
A scented candle
Candles are often associated with mourning and frequently available in churches to be lit in tribute of a loved one. and if you are seeking a gift with longevity, a candle may be a better option than flowers. For some people, taking some time for reflection while lighting a candle is a good way to reflect on the memory of a loved one. There are a couple of types of candle holders or gift sets which you can buy that are suitably designed for someone who is experiencing grief. Alternatively, you may opt for a calming aromatherapy candle instead.
Home-cooked food
Cooking for the bereaved is such a good and practical way to offer support in the days or weeks after a bereavement. Batch cooking a meal that can be popped in the freezer and eaten at a later time is the kind of gesture lots of people really appreciate. In addition to this, you could even send a basket of cupcakes, fruit or any other sweet treats you know they will like. Whatever you send them, it is important to write a condolence message with the gift.
Here at T & I Stockman, we understand that losing a loved one can be an extremely distressing thing for anyone to go through. Our focus is on caring for the families in our local community. Our family businesses have been trusted by local families for four generations and our family and staff are deeply connected to the local area. To find out more about the services we offer, please visit our website or contact us today.
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