Losing a loved one isn’t easy, which is why many friends and family members think about offering gifts in the wake of the event. However, deciding when to give and what to choose can be tricky. Here is a brief guide for giving gifts at a funeral.

Should You Give a Gift?

Ideally, you should give a loved one or friend a thoughtful gift as soon as possible after the death, while still being respectful of their time and space. The closer you are with the person who experienced the loss, the more appropriate it is to give the gift soon. For instance, if your best friend lost their sibling, bringing them a useful bereavement gift the next day would be appropriate.

Conversely, it may be more appropriate to wait a week or two after the funeral for a friend you don’t see very often. If the family of the deceased requests something specific, such as a donation in lieu of flowers, honor their wishes. In general, use your judgment to determine the right course for each situation.

Which Gifts Are Appropriate?

Appropriate gifts after a funeral include ready-to-eat meals, donations to relevant causes, cash for the family, flowers, gift cards for the bereaved, and even framed pictures. Keepsake boxes, mementos, and photos you have of the deceased can be helpful during times of grieving. Whatever gift you choose, give it in a kind, unassuming way, and never make assertions about how the bereaved are doing or how they should react.

If you have any questions about appropriate gifting after the death of a loved one, turn to the team at Frederick Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH. In addition to helping with everything from planning to hosting funerals and memorial services, this trusted team of professionals also offers bereavement services, including a convenient monthly newsletter for those who may be transitioning to their new normal. To learn more about how they can help, visit their website or call (513) 522-3700.