Although flowers remain the most popular gifts for funeral services, many people have become more creative and expanded beyond cut bouquets. Discover what other items and sentiments you can present to the grieving family and show your support.
Check the obituary or postings at the funeral home for directions from the family regarding in lieu of flowers gifts. In many cases a particular charity or organization has been designated to receive financial gifts from fellow grievers. This can be a wonderful way to show support and honor the deceased with a lasting gift.
Funerals and visitations require enormous amounts of time and emotional energy, leaving grieving families with little time for the basics. Sometimes a hot meal or restaurant gift card is the most welcome gift you could give and provides the family with help and nourishment. Find out any food allergies or preferences beforehand and mark all homemade food well with storage and cooking directions.
Lasting memorials offer another touching gift option. Plant a tree, create a garden or place a park bench in a special location in honor of the deceased. Consider a local park or traditional vacation spot. Have a picture taken of the memorial for presentation to the family or take them to the location for a time of rest and reflection.
Look through your collection of photographs to find a unique picture. Have the photo specially framed or hire an artist to reproduce the scene as a painting. This provides the grieving family with a lasting memory both of the deceased and your support and love.
Friends and family can donate their time by providing acts of service to grievers. Many household tasks fall by the wayside during the grieving period, and offering to take care of things can be a major help. Think about the tasks you could handle and provide a certificate for the service. Remember to have them redeem it.
Choose an alternative to flowers and show your support to grieving families with one of these funeral gift ideas.
