Key Considerations for Sending Sympathy Flowers and Thoughtful Gifts
- Staff Desk
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
It’s hard to know how to support and help those who are going through the loss of a loved one. Sometimes a simple gift, such as sympathy flowers, can be an effective way of showing your love and be a reminder to the receiver that they’ve got people around them they can count on during such a difficult time. However, knowing exactly when and how to go about it can be hard to gauge, so here’s what to consider.
What Are The Delivery Details?
First, it’s important to know where the receiver will be when you want to deliver the flowers. Whether you’re hand delivering yourself or using a courier, you don’t want your gift being left in the rain, or at a chance of being stolen if they’re sent to the wrong place. The receiver may be staying in a different place from where they normally are, so ask around to see where is best to send them. Using condolences flowers delivery from James Cress Florist rather than hand delivering can help keep socialisation to a minimum. The bereaved is most likely feeling overwhelmed and won’t want to have to speak to more people than they need to. You can also opt to send the gift to the funeral home if it’s more appropriate.
When’s The Best Time?
Sending flowers soon after a loss offers timely comfort and shows immediate support, especially when timed with a funeral or memorial service. However, a thoughtful gift or message sent weeks later can be just as meaningful, often providing comfort when the initial wave of support has faded and the bereaved may feel most alone. There really is no best time, unfortunately, but whether the gift is sent immediately or delayed, both will be appreciated by the bereaved.
How Close Were You?
Consider your relationship to them. Something more formal might be better for a colleague or someone you’re not that close with. Have a look at these traditional flower ideas:
● Lilies: Purity and peace.
● Roses: Love and remembrance (white or pink are often used).
● Chrysanthemums: Used in many cultures to symbolize death or mourning.
● Orchids: Eternal love.
Whereas a personalised gift with a handwritten note could be more suitable for someone you’ve known for years.
Flowers and Thoughtful Gifts: Are There Cultural Sensitivities?
When offering flowers and thoughtful gifts during times of grief, it's important to be mindful of cultural and religious sensitivities. For example, in Jewish culture, flowers aren’t typically sent, and in Buddhism, red flowers should be avoided. If you’re unsure, check with the community or look it up on the internet.
What Kind Of Gifts Are Appropriate?
Sometimes flowers might not always work, especially because they are perishable. Something that lasts longer might be required.
● Memorial Candles or Wind Chimes: Symbolic and comforting.
● Personalized Keepsakes: Such as framed photos, custom artwork, or engraved jewelry.
● Books on Grief or Journals: Helpful for those who process through reflection.
● Comfort Food Baskets or Meal Delivery: Offers practical help during a difficult time.
● Charitable Donations: Consider donating to a cause meaningful to the deceased or their family.
Make sure to consider the best place to deliver the gift and whether you want to do it immediately or delay. Take into account your relationship to the deceased and their family as well as thinking about any cultural sensitivities, and what kind of gift would work best.
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