Funerals are an opportunity for you to pay respects and express sympathy to the bereaved family. Though it is not mandatory to bring a token of sympathy, this gesture will surely be appreciated by the deceased’s family. It can be challenging to decide what to bring, however.
Here are practical suggestions on what to bring to a funeral, and how it can bring comfort to a service.
What to Bring to a Funeral: 7 Sympathy Gifts for a Wake
Flowers
Flowers are a popular choice for funeral essentials. People often use flowers to convey their condolences when they cannot find the right words. Sympathy can go beyond ‘I am sorry for your loss’. White flowers symbolize death and grief. On a more optimistic note, it is also associated with rebirth, purity, and heaven.
There are a variety of funeral flowers to choose from, such as the following:
Funeral flower arrangements can come in different forms:
- Standing sprays
- Wreaths
- Sympathy basket or vase
- Urn arrangements
2. Sympathy Card
A simple but genuine message is a good way to comfort the bereaved. Express your sympathy by writing short, meaningful words of comfort to the family and loved ones. Sympathy cards are typically delivered alongside flowers.
3. Charity Donations
The grieving family may ask guests to donate to a charity or organization of their choice. Relevant charities are chosen by the family to honor the deceased in their passing. For example, their late grandmother used to feed stray animals, so the family chose a charity that rescues, feeds, and adopts out stray cats. Information is typically displayed in the funeral announcement or obituary.
4. Photographs
With today’s technology, it is easy to create digital scrapbooks, photo albums, and even video compilations of moments with your loved ones. Despite that, analog or printed photos have a special charm and feel, as if past memories become tangible in your hands.
If you have any photographs that include the deceased with their family, arrange them in a beautiful and neat album to bring to the funeral. It is one of the funeral essentials that can serve as a good conversation starter when talking about the deceased. Reminiscing of happy moments can help ease the emotions of the grieving family.
5. Food
Funerals can get emotionally and physically taxing for the bereaved. Bringing food is another way to show your care and compassion during difficult times. It also helps them regain more energy after entertaining guests and minding the deceased. It is not customary, but it is a comforting gesture. Choose convenient but filling meals that can be easily consumed and stored.
6. Memorial Necklace
A memorial necklace is a wonderful way to remember the deceased. These necklaces are handcrafted uniquely. There are silver and gold pendants where the deceased’s name, date of birth, and death can be engraved. Lockets can be personalized with their photo. Steel cremation necklaces can carry a small amount of ashes inside, similar to a regular urn.
7. Personalized Candle
Customize an intricately designed candle jar with a photograph of the deceased. These kinds of candles can be used each time the bereaved family visits the grave or columbarium. Lighting a dedicated candle not only honors the deceased in eternal life, but it also symbolizes hope.
Showing up is the most important form of support when attending a solemn event such as a funeral. When words fail, simple gifts of sympathy and grieving such as the suggestions above will console the bereaved.
ALSO READ: A Comprehensive Guide to Funeral Flowers
Source the most sincere funeral flower arrangements from Flower Patch. Our expert florists can help you choose the best flowers and arrangements to express your sympathy and condolences. Talk to us today to avail of our speedy same day delivery.
