Selecting & Sending a Sympathy or Bereavement Gift Basket

10 Tips for Selecting & Sending a Sympathy or Bereavement Gift

1. Remember That Timing Matters, But So Does Thoughtfulness

   • While it’s natural to want your gift to arrive quickly, remember that grief doesn’t end after the funeral. Sending something a week or two afterwards— even a month later—can be an especially comforting reminder that you’re still thinking of them.

2. Choose Items That Offer Comfort

   • Look for gifts that nourish or soothe: a basket of comforting snacks, premium teas, cozy throws or pashmina, or a candle with a calming scent. Small gestures of comfort can mean a lot in difficult times.

3. Be Mindful of Cultural or Religious Traditions

   • Different cultures and faiths have specific customs around bereavement. When possible, consider whether certain items (wine, food types, flowers) are appropriate for the recipient and occasion, even some colours in certain cultures are frowned upon. Some tips to keep in mind are that in the Asian culture we avoid red in their bereavement gifts, since the colour red is associated with happiness, celebration, and good fortune therefore not appropriate for mourning and neither is black in the Hindu culture, most even wear white to their services.  If you are nervous, please just ask when placing your order, we are happy to help.

4. Include a Personal, Heartfelt Message

   • Even the most beautiful gift basket feels incomplete without a personal and thoughtful note. Keep it simple and sincere. A few lines acknowledging their loss and expressing your support will feel meaningful and personal.
     Avoid ‘canned’ sentiments ie. ‘From the Whole Team’ when its from the office.

5. Consider Practical Help

   • For families going through a loss, practical support is often as valuable as emotional support. A gift basket stocked with ready-to-eat meals, nourishing ‘quick open and eat’ snacks – think cookies, nuts, olives or pantry staples can ease daily burdens when energy is low.

6. Respect Dietary Restrictions

   • Before sending edible gifts, discreetly check if the recipient or their household has allergies, dietary practices, like Gluten Free or sensitivities. This thoughtfulness shows you care about the details.

7. Select Subdued, Elegant Presentation

   • For sympathy occasions, choose packaging that feels understated and tasteful—softer colors, elegant ribbons, and simple arrangements rather than bright or celebratory designs.

8. Avoid Overly Cheerful or “Fix-It” Messaging

   • Sympathy gifts aren’t meant to erase grief. Avoid cards or tags with overly upbeat language (“Everything happens for a reason”) and instead offer messages of care, remembrance, and presence. Jefferson Fisher, the brilliant lawyer, offers these points to remember when speaking to someone grieving.

9. Think About Longevity

   • Sometimes, gifts that can be kept—like a memory book like in our Tranquil Moment Gift, a living plant, or a keepsake candle—can be a comforting, lasting reminder of your kindness and support in the weeks and months ahead.

10. Follow Up Later

• A sympathy gift can be the first step, but checking in with a note, a phone call, or a small gesture weeks later helps remind someone they’re not alone in their grief.

If you are nervous about what to send,please don’t hesitate to reach out and we are happy to offer some assistance.

Thanks for stopping by,

Carole