When Flowers Aren’t Enough – Your Sympathy Gift Giving Guide
Sadly, death is a part of life and we offer our condolences to you for needing to find a sympathy gift giving guide. Friend or loved one, work colleague or family member, having to say goodbye to someone is very difficult. Even more challenging is knowing what to say and do for the family and friends they have left behind.
Traditionally flowers have been the sympathy gift given to acknowledge the bereavement they are now facing. While when gifted flowers look beautiful, they are already beginning to wither and last only days in a vase. Wouldn’t it be better to give a sympathy gift which lived on as a memorial for those whom have passed? Something loved ones would be able to care for, visit and see often? Today we’re sharing with you our sympathy gift giving ideas to help you find the perfect gift to give to those who have suffered a loss.
Understanding Modern Etiquette for Sympathy Gifts
When someone is grieving, it’s never easy to know what to say or what to do. You want to be able to convey that you are thinking about them, while acknowledging the immense pain and grief they will be feeling. Sometimes the words are hard to find which truly demonstrate you concern, which is when actions speak louder than words.
With the advances in social media, our lives are often on display. However, it is not appropriate to comment on the passing of someone online, even if it was first discussed by relatives. Nor is it okay to make light of their grief, saying comments such as “I know how you are feeling,” or “Aren’t you over it yet?”
Modern etiquette states that acknowledging the passing of someone is the most important thing to do. While the cooking of a meal, giving a hug and simply spending time with those grieving are common actions, due to time pressures, commitments and distances between us, they’re not always possible. Therefore, bereavement cards and flowers have been traditionally given instead. But what else could you do if they are not enough?
What can I send instead of flowers for sympathy in NZ?