{"id":159,"count":14,"description":"<h3 style=\"text-align: left;\">Overview<\/h3>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">We debated whether or not to have an entry for this subject but in the end, decided to offer up some ideas. \u00a0We humans are not a \u201cgoodbye\u201d species. We don\u2019t like when we have to do it and whether it\u2019s a family member, a friend, a cherished pet or, in some cases, a famous personality, when someone is no longer with us it can be hard to know what to do. It\u2019s an intimidating situation as we all like to \u201cfix\u201d things when they\u2019re going badly. In this case, you can\u2019t fix anything, but what you can do is show your support.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Everyone responds to grief differently. We encourage you to find a reputable site that talks about how you can help your friends and family through rough times. Keep in mind there is no \u201cone size fits all\u201d solution here. You know the situation better than anyone on the internet, so go with your gut. Although everyone worries about saying or doing the wrong thing, in most cases, just trying to help will mean the world to your friend or family member.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<div id=\"accordion\" class=\"panel-group\">\r\n<div class=\"panel panel-default\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-heading\">\r\n<h4 class=\"panel-title\"><a href=\"#collapse1\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion\">Gift Ideas<\/a><\/h4>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"collapse1\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-body\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">General advice:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Saying \u201cif there\u2019s anything I can do, let me know\u201d is a nice sentiment, but often people won\u2019t ask for help unless you get more specific. Offer to pick up their groceries next week, watch the kids next Saturday night or mow their lawn on Tuesdays for the next month. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Giving a gift when someone dies is optional. Don\u2019t feel obligated to do so. By far the most important priority is to acknowledge the bereaved\u2019s loss and let them know you\u2019re there for support. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">If you were close to the deceased but don\u2019t really know their family members, etiquette suggests you send the gift to the closest relative and mention how you\u2019re connected. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Something to keep in mind is what the departed meant to those left behind. \u00a0If you're considering some sort of gift or item of remembrance you could get something in line with the influence the individual had in their life:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Companionship, e.g. a life partner or <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/pet\/\">pet<\/a>. The gift could include spending time with the person.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Role model, e.g. a parent, mentor or famous person. The gift could somehow support their favorite cause.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Breadwinner, e.g. the person who supported the family. \u00a0A gift of <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/grocery-gift-card-meal-delivery\/\">food<\/a> or services.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Guidance, e.g. patriarch or matriarch. \u00a0Even offering your support could go a long way.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Confidante, e.g. friend, close aunt, pet. \u00a0You could provide them with a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/framed-photo\/\">picture<\/a> of the departed so they could still talk to them.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Gift options:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/flowers\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Flowers<\/span><\/a>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Bouquets. Opinions on whether or not to give cut flowers are varied. Some will argue that they are just another item that will wither in front of the bereaved while others feel they are an integral and very appreciated part of the process. Other pros include the fact that they brighten up the funeral and aren\u2019t a long-term gift that someone has to find a place for in their home. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/flowering-plants-or-bulbs\/\">Potted flowers\/plants<\/a>. While this option will live much longer than cut flowers, consider whether or not your giftee has room in their house for them. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Seeds. These are a great option as the resulting flowers will last longer than any cut flowers will. On top of that, they can be planted when and where it\u2019s most convenient for your giftee.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/charity-donation\/\">Donations<\/a>\/dedications<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">As these gifts don\u2019t necessarily require any space and show that you\u2019re thinking about the deceased, they\u2019re an excellent choice. <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/gardening-tools-supplies\/\">Plant a tree<\/a> as a living memorial in your backyard, in a local park (with permission) or <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/charity-donation\/\">donate<\/a> to where it\u2019s needed most. Another option is to plant a tree with the cremated ashes using a biodegradable urn and a sapling. You can find out more information about this online. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Dedicate a bench or picnic table.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/charity-donation\/\">Donate to a charity<\/a>. Often the family will designate a preferred charity but if you aren\u2019t given guidance, give some thought to what the deceased would have wanted (eg: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/sports-fan-sporty\/\">sports<\/a> for kids, literacy, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/activity\/entertainment\/performing-arts\/\">performing arts<\/a>, environmental, wildlife, safe drinking <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/elements\/water\/\">water<\/a>\u2026).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Honour the deceased by <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/name-a-star-for-someone\/\">naming a star<\/a> after them.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/participate-in-a-charity-walk-or-run\/\">Participate in a charity walk<\/a>, run, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/bicycle-ride-gear\/\">bicycle<\/a> or <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/motorcycle-ride-lessons-or-gear\/\">motorbike<\/a> ride in honour of the departed (eg: multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's, mental health, kidney disease\u2026)<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/food-beverage\/food\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Food<\/span><\/a>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Before preparing any food, make sure you take religious preferences (eg: kosher), allergies and intolerances into account. <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/home-cooked-meal\/\">Home-made options<\/a>:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Making something yourself shows it came from the heart and meals can be very helpful and appreciated during the grieving period. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Be mindful that the bereaved may be inundated initially with food from loved ones. Take the reins on organizing a schedule with a bunch of people so the food is delivered steadily, not all at once. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Freeze some ready-made <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/cookies\/\">cookie<\/a> dough instead of bringing by a batch of already baked cookies. That way they can have fresh baked cookies anytime they want. <\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Professionally made options:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Freshly prepared <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/grocery-gift-card-meal-delivery\/\">meal delivery<\/a>. A quick online search should give you great options in your giftee\u2019s neighborhood. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/gift-card-restaurant\/\">Restaurant gift card<\/a>. Pick their favourite restaurant or something close by.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Groceries<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">You can offer to pick up groceries or simply purchase a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/grocery-gift-card-meal-delivery\/\">grocery gift card<\/a> to help cover the costs of hosting extra guests in the weeks to come.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Home &amp; lawn care<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">You can offer to tidy up yourself but be aware that sometimes people can be quite self-conscious about the state of their house. They may prefer a professional service over having it done by a friend. If you go with a professional service, take the reins on getting the date set up. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Mow their lawn or get a lawn care service on board<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Childcare<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Babysit for an evening or have the kids over to your place for a sleepover<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Pick up the kids from school for the next week<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Pet care<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Don\u2019t forget about <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/pet\/\">pets<\/a>. They grieve too!<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Offer to take the dog on their daily walk for a few days.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Work-related<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Check with your HR dept to see if you can work a day in lieu for them if they\u2019re a co-worker.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/activity\/\">Spending time<\/a> with your giftee<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Getting outside the house and spending time with friends or family can do wonders for someone who\u2019s dealing with grief. A few suggestions:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/coffee-lover\/\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Go for coffee<\/span><\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Do some <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/yoga-lover\/\">yoga<\/a> in the park<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Go to a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/sports-any-event\/\">hockey game<\/a> together<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Watch a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/activity\/entertainment\/movies-tv\/\">movie<\/a> or go out to see one. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Spend a night at a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/hotel-motel-reservations\/\">hotel<\/a> nearby<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Pamper yourselves with a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/massage\/\">massage<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/spa-treatment\/\">manicure or pedicure <\/a><\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">For more ideas around stress relief check out our <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/rest-relaxation\/\">Rest &amp; Relaxation<\/a> theme<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Cherish memories<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Print out or send a digital photo that the family may not have of their loved one. Personalize it with a great memory you have of the deceased in general or of that moment specifically. If you\u2019re <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/framed-photo\/\">framing<\/a> the photo, consider having it engraved as well. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Have a memorial garden stone made<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Give your giftee a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/candle\/\">candle<\/a> and suggest that when they light it, they think of the departed.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Use their favourite shirts to make a quilt (you can find companies to do this online).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Do something creative with the ashes, something that the departed would have loved. There may be a lot more options than you thought. We were surprised to find a multitude of creative ideas online including sending them into space, using the ashes to help make an environmentally friendly artificial reef, or incorporate them into items like <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/diamond\/\">diamonds<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/fireworks\/\">fireworks<\/a>, hand blown glass, vinyl records or even tattoos!<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Convert a favourite <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/framed-photo\/\">photo<\/a> to a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/artwork\/\">painting<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">The little things<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">In the weeks after a funeral, family members may feel overwhelmed hosting guests and writing thank you notes. With this in mind, they may really appreciate simple but overlooked gifts like:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Postage stamps<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/fine-stationery-scrapbook-supplies\/\">Fine stationery<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/office-supplies\/\">envelopes<\/a><\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\"><a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/coffee-caffeinated-beverages\/\">Coffee<\/a>, creamer, sugar<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Napkins, <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/themes\/rock-paper-scissors\/paper\/\">paper<\/a> towel, toilet paper<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Still not sure what to do?<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Simple <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product\/cash\/\">cash<\/a> can be very appreciated as there may be outstanding funeral expenses that need to be paid. Be discreet when giving gifts like money (eg: enclose it in a card). \u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Have a suggestion for an idea we haven\u2019t covered here? <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/contact\/\">Let us know<\/a> and we\u2019ll try to add it onto the list.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"panel panel-default\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-heading\">\r\n<h4 class=\"panel-title\"><a href=\"#collapse2\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion\"> Wrapping<\/a><\/h4>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"collapse2\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-body\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">In the case of sympathy gifts, it\u2019s best to keep things simple and tasteful. <\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Try wrapping your gift with plain paper and having your kids draw a picture on it or write a simple message like: \u201cI\u2019ll miss you Grandpa\u201d.<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Tie a small item into the ribbon around the gift (eg: a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/gift-ideas\/flowers\/\">flower<\/a>).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">For smaller gifts, add a unique touch by making your own box.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"panel panel-default\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-heading\">\r\n<h4 class=\"panel-title\"><a href=\"#collapse3\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordion\">Presentation<\/a><\/h4>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div id=\"collapse3\" class=\"panel-collapse collapse\">\r\n<div class=\"panel-body\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Use quotes or phrases that relate to your theme when you present the gifts or in your card. An online search of \u201cwhat to say on a sympathy card\u201d will give you a lot of options but here are a few examples:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">You can always keep things simple with sentiments like: <\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">I\u2019m so sorry to hear about your loss<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">My heart goes out to you and your family<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">In deepest sympathy<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">With heartfelt condolences<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Wishing you comfort and peace<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Keeping you in my thoughts<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">My heart is with you in this time of sorrow<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">With love and remembrance<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Using quotes can sometimes communicate your sentiments in an eloquent way:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">\"Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.\" ~Franz Schubert<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">\u201cThe best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, but just felt in the heart\u201d ~Helen Keller<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">\u201cTo live in hearts we leave behind is not to die\u201d ~Thomas Campbell<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Or you can try to make it more personal with details:<\/span>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Mention a great memory about the deceased (eg: that time he took us fishing).<\/span><\/li>\r\n \t<li dir=\"ltr\"><span style=\"font-size: 18px;\">Talk about the things you liked best about them (eg: her laugh always lit up the whole room).<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","link":"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/","name":"Sympathy","slug":"sympathy","taxonomy":"product_cat","parent":25,"meta":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Gift Ideas - Just a Token<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Gift Ideas - Just a Token\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Overview We debated whether or not to have an entry for this subject but in the end, decided to offer up some ideas. \u00a0We humans are not a \u201cgoodbye\u201d species. We don\u2019t like when we have to do it and whether it\u2019s a family member, a friend, a cherished pet or, in some cases, a famous personality, when someone is no longer with us it can be hard to know what to do. It\u2019s an intimidating situation as we all like to \u201cfix\u201d things when they\u2019re going badly. In this case, you can\u2019t fix anything, but what you can do is show your support. Everyone responds to grief differently. We encourage you to find a reputable site that talks about how you can help your friends and family through rough times. Keep in mind there is no \u201cone size fits all\u201d solution here. You know the situation better than anyone on the internet, so go with your gut. Although everyone worries about saying or doing the wrong thing, in most cases, just trying to help will mean the world to your friend or family member.   Gift Ideas   General advice: Saying \u201cif there\u2019s anything I can do, let me know\u201d is a nice sentiment, but often people won\u2019t ask for help unless you get more specific. Offer to pick up their groceries next week, watch the kids next Saturday night or mow their lawn on Tuesdays for the next month. Giving a gift when someone dies is optional. Don\u2019t feel obligated to do so. By far the most important priority is to acknowledge the bereaved\u2019s loss and let them know you\u2019re there for support. If you were close to the deceased but don\u2019t really know their family members, etiquette suggests you send the gift to the closest relative and mention how you\u2019re connected. Something to keep in mind is what the departed meant to those left behind. \u00a0If you&#8217;re considering some sort of gift or item of remembrance you could get something in line with the influence the individual had in their life: Companionship, e.g. a life partner or pet. The gift could include spending time with the person. Role model, e.g. a parent, mentor or famous person. The gift could somehow support their favorite cause. Breadwinner, e.g. the person who supported the family. \u00a0A gift of food or services. Guidance, e.g. patriarch or matriarch. \u00a0Even offering your support could go a long way. Confidante, e.g. friend, close aunt, pet. \u00a0You could provide them with a picture of the departed so they could still talk to them.   Gift options: Flowers Bouquets. Opinions on whether or not to give cut flowers are varied. Some will argue that they are just another item that will wither in front of the bereaved while others feel they are an integral and very appreciated part of the process. Other pros include the fact that they brighten up the funeral and aren\u2019t a long-term gift that someone has to find a place for in their home. Potted flowers\/plants. While this option will live much longer than cut flowers, consider whether or not your giftee has room in their house for them. Seeds. These are a great option as the resulting flowers will last longer than any cut flowers will. On top of that, they can be planted when and where it\u2019s most convenient for your giftee.   Donations\/dedications As these gifts don\u2019t necessarily require any space and show that you\u2019re thinking about the deceased, they\u2019re an excellent choice.  Plant a tree as a living memorial in your backyard, in a local park (with permission) or donate to where it\u2019s needed most. Another option is to plant a tree with the cremated ashes using a biodegradable urn and a sapling. You can find out more information about this online. Dedicate a bench or picnic table. Donate to a charity. Often the family will designate a preferred charity but if you aren\u2019t given guidance, give some thought to what the deceased would have wanted (eg: sports for kids, literacy, performing arts, environmental, wildlife, safe drinking water\u2026). Honour the deceased by naming a star after them. Participate in a charity walk, run, bicycle or motorbike ride in honour of the departed (eg: multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer&#8217;s, mental health, kidney disease\u2026)   Food Before preparing any food, make sure you take religious preferences (eg: kosher), allergies and intolerances into account.  Home-made options: Making something yourself shows it came from the heart and meals can be very helpful and appreciated during the grieving period. Be mindful that the bereaved may be inundated initially with food from loved ones. Take the reins on organizing a schedule with a bunch of people so the food is delivered steadily, not all at once. Freeze some ready-made cookie dough instead of bringing by a batch of already baked cookies. That way they can have fresh baked cookies anytime they want.  Professionally made options: Freshly prepared meal delivery. A quick online search should give you great options in your giftee\u2019s neighborhood. Restaurant gift card. Pick their favourite restaurant or something close by. Groceries You can offer to pick up groceries or simply purchase a grocery gift card to help cover the costs of hosting extra guests in the weeks to come.    Home &amp; lawn care You can offer to tidy up yourself but be aware that sometimes people can be quite self-conscious about the state of their house. They may prefer a professional service over having it done by a friend. If you go with a professional service, take the reins on getting the date set up. Mow their lawn or get a lawn care service on board  Childcare Babysit for an evening or have the kids over to your place for a sleepover Pick up the kids from school for the next week  Pet care Don\u2019t forget about pets. They grieve too! Offer to take the dog on their daily walk for a few days.  Work-related Check with your HR dept to see if you can work a day in lieu for them if they\u2019re a co-worker.  Spending time with your giftee Getting outside the house and spending time with friends or family can do wonders for someone who\u2019s dealing with grief. A few suggestions: Go for coffee Do some yoga in the park Go to a hockey game together Watch a movie or go out to see one. Spend a night at a hotel nearby Pamper yourselves with a massage, manicure or pedicure  For more ideas around stress relief check out our Rest &amp; Relaxation theme  Cherish memories Print out or send a digital photo that the family may not have of their loved one. Personalize it with a great memory you have of the deceased in general or of that moment specifically. If you\u2019re framing the photo, consider having it engraved as well. Have a memorial garden stone made Give your giftee a candle and suggest that when they light it, they think of the departed.\u00a0 Use their favourite shirts to make a quilt (you can find companies to do this online).\u00a0 Do something creative with the ashes, something that the departed would have loved. There may be a lot more options than you thought. We were surprised to find a multitude of creative ideas online including sending them into space, using the ashes to help make an environmentally friendly artificial reef, or incorporate them into items like diamonds, fireworks, hand blown glass, vinyl records or even tattoos! Convert a favourite photo to a painting.\u00a0  The little things In the weeks after a funeral, family members may feel overwhelmed hosting guests and writing thank you notes. With this in mind, they may really appreciate simple but overlooked gifts like: Postage stamps Fine stationery, envelopes Coffee, creamer, sugar Napkins, paper towel, toilet paper   Still not sure what to do? Simple cash can be very appreciated as there may be outstanding funeral expenses that need to be paid. Be discreet when giving gifts like money (eg: enclose it in a card). \u00a0  Have a suggestion for an idea we haven\u2019t covered here? Let us know and we\u2019ll try to add it onto the list.    Wrapping   In the case of sympathy gifts, it\u2019s best to keep things simple and tasteful. Try wrapping your gift with plain paper and having your kids draw a picture on it or write a simple message like: \u201cI\u2019ll miss you Grandpa\u201d. Tie a small item into the ribbon around the gift (eg: a flower). For smaller gifts, add a unique touch by making your own box.    Presentation   Use quotes or phrases that relate to your theme when you present the gifts or in your card. An online search of \u201cwhat to say on a sympathy card\u201d will give you a lot of options but here are a few examples: You can always keep things simple with sentiments like:  I\u2019m so sorry to hear about your loss My heart goes out to you and your family In deepest sympathy With heartfelt condolences Wishing you comfort and peace Keeping you in my thoughts My heart is with you in this time of sorrow With love and remembrance  Using quotes can sometimes communicate your sentiments in an eloquent way: &#8220;Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.&#8221; ~Franz Schubert \u201cThe best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, but just felt in the heart\u201d ~Helen Keller \u201cTo live in hearts we leave behind is not to die\u201d ~Thomas Campbell  Or you can try to make it more personal with details: Mention a great memory about the deceased (eg: that time he took us fishing). Talk about the things you liked best about them (eg: her laugh always lit up the whole room).\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Gift Ideas - Just a Token\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"CollectionPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/\",\"name\":\"Gift Ideas - Just a Token\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/#website\"},\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Significant Occasions\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"Sympathy\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/\",\"name\":\"Gift Ideas - Just a Token\",\"description\":\"Gift Giving Ideas Made Easy - The Little Things Matter\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Gift Ideas - Just a Token","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.justatoken.com\/product-category\/significant-occasions\/sympathy\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Gift Ideas - Just a Token","og_description":"Overview We debated whether or not to have an entry for this subject but in the end, decided to offer up some ideas. \u00a0We humans are not a \u201cgoodbye\u201d species. We don\u2019t like when we have to do it and whether it\u2019s a family member, a friend, a cherished pet or, in some cases, a famous personality, when someone is no longer with us it can be hard to know what to do. It\u2019s an intimidating situation as we all like to \u201cfix\u201d things when they\u2019re going badly. In this case, you can\u2019t fix anything, but what you can do is show your support. Everyone responds to grief differently. We encourage you to find a reputable site that talks about how you can help your friends and family through rough times. Keep in mind there is no \u201cone size fits all\u201d solution here. You know the situation better than anyone on the internet, so go with your gut. Although everyone worries about saying or doing the wrong thing, in most cases, just trying to help will mean the world to your friend or family member.   Gift Ideas   General advice: Saying \u201cif there\u2019s anything I can do, let me know\u201d is a nice sentiment, but often people won\u2019t ask for help unless you get more specific. Offer to pick up their groceries next week, watch the kids next Saturday night or mow their lawn on Tuesdays for the next month. Giving a gift when someone dies is optional. Don\u2019t feel obligated to do so. By far the most important priority is to acknowledge the bereaved\u2019s loss and let them know you\u2019re there for support. If you were close to the deceased but don\u2019t really know their family members, etiquette suggests you send the gift to the closest relative and mention how you\u2019re connected. Something to keep in mind is what the departed meant to those left behind. \u00a0If you&#8217;re considering some sort of gift or item of remembrance you could get something in line with the influence the individual had in their life: Companionship, e.g. a life partner or pet. The gift could include spending time with the person. Role model, e.g. a parent, mentor or famous person. The gift could somehow support their favorite cause. Breadwinner, e.g. the person who supported the family. \u00a0A gift of food or services. Guidance, e.g. patriarch or matriarch. \u00a0Even offering your support could go a long way. Confidante, e.g. friend, close aunt, pet. \u00a0You could provide them with a picture of the departed so they could still talk to them.   Gift options: Flowers Bouquets. Opinions on whether or not to give cut flowers are varied. Some will argue that they are just another item that will wither in front of the bereaved while others feel they are an integral and very appreciated part of the process. Other pros include the fact that they brighten up the funeral and aren\u2019t a long-term gift that someone has to find a place for in their home. Potted flowers\/plants. While this option will live much longer than cut flowers, consider whether or not your giftee has room in their house for them. Seeds. These are a great option as the resulting flowers will last longer than any cut flowers will. On top of that, they can be planted when and where it\u2019s most convenient for your giftee.   Donations\/dedications As these gifts don\u2019t necessarily require any space and show that you\u2019re thinking about the deceased, they\u2019re an excellent choice.  Plant a tree as a living memorial in your backyard, in a local park (with permission) or donate to where it\u2019s needed most. Another option is to plant a tree with the cremated ashes using a biodegradable urn and a sapling. You can find out more information about this online. Dedicate a bench or picnic table. Donate to a charity. Often the family will designate a preferred charity but if you aren\u2019t given guidance, give some thought to what the deceased would have wanted (eg: sports for kids, literacy, performing arts, environmental, wildlife, safe drinking water\u2026). Honour the deceased by naming a star after them. Participate in a charity walk, run, bicycle or motorbike ride in honour of the departed (eg: multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer&#8217;s, mental health, kidney disease\u2026)   Food Before preparing any food, make sure you take religious preferences (eg: kosher), allergies and intolerances into account.  Home-made options: Making something yourself shows it came from the heart and meals can be very helpful and appreciated during the grieving period. Be mindful that the bereaved may be inundated initially with food from loved ones. Take the reins on organizing a schedule with a bunch of people so the food is delivered steadily, not all at once. Freeze some ready-made cookie dough instead of bringing by a batch of already baked cookies. That way they can have fresh baked cookies anytime they want.  Professionally made options: Freshly prepared meal delivery. A quick online search should give you great options in your giftee\u2019s neighborhood. Restaurant gift card. Pick their favourite restaurant or something close by. Groceries You can offer to pick up groceries or simply purchase a grocery gift card to help cover the costs of hosting extra guests in the weeks to come.    Home &amp; lawn care You can offer to tidy up yourself but be aware that sometimes people can be quite self-conscious about the state of their house. They may prefer a professional service over having it done by a friend. If you go with a professional service, take the reins on getting the date set up. Mow their lawn or get a lawn care service on board  Childcare Babysit for an evening or have the kids over to your place for a sleepover Pick up the kids from school for the next week  Pet care Don\u2019t forget about pets. They grieve too! Offer to take the dog on their daily walk for a few days.  Work-related Check with your HR dept to see if you can work a day in lieu for them if they\u2019re a co-worker.  Spending time with your giftee Getting outside the house and spending time with friends or family can do wonders for someone who\u2019s dealing with grief. A few suggestions: Go for coffee Do some yoga in the park Go to a hockey game together Watch a movie or go out to see one. Spend a night at a hotel nearby Pamper yourselves with a massage, manicure or pedicure  For more ideas around stress relief check out our Rest &amp; Relaxation theme  Cherish memories Print out or send a digital photo that the family may not have of their loved one. Personalize it with a great memory you have of the deceased in general or of that moment specifically. If you\u2019re framing the photo, consider having it engraved as well. Have a memorial garden stone made Give your giftee a candle and suggest that when they light it, they think of the departed.\u00a0 Use their favourite shirts to make a quilt (you can find companies to do this online).\u00a0 Do something creative with the ashes, something that the departed would have loved. There may be a lot more options than you thought. We were surprised to find a multitude of creative ideas online including sending them into space, using the ashes to help make an environmentally friendly artificial reef, or incorporate them into items like diamonds, fireworks, hand blown glass, vinyl records or even tattoos! Convert a favourite photo to a painting.\u00a0  The little things In the weeks after a funeral, family members may feel overwhelmed hosting guests and writing thank you notes. With this in mind, they may really appreciate simple but overlooked gifts like: Postage stamps Fine stationery, envelopes Coffee, creamer, sugar Napkins, paper towel, toilet paper   Still not sure what to do? Simple cash can be very appreciated as there may be outstanding funeral expenses that need to be paid. Be discreet when giving gifts like money (eg: enclose it in a card). \u00a0  Have a suggestion for an idea we haven\u2019t covered here? Let us know and we\u2019ll try to add it onto the list.    Wrapping   In the case of sympathy gifts, it\u2019s best to keep things simple and tasteful. Try wrapping your gift with plain paper and having your kids draw a picture on it or write a simple message like: \u201cI\u2019ll miss you Grandpa\u201d. Tie a small item into the ribbon around the gift (eg: a flower). For smaller gifts, add a unique touch by making your own box.    Presentation   Use quotes or phrases that relate to your theme when you present the gifts or in your card. An online search of \u201cwhat to say on a sympathy card\u201d will give you a lot of options but here are a few examples: You can always keep things simple with sentiments like:  I\u2019m so sorry to hear about your loss My heart goes out to you and your family In deepest sympathy With heartfelt condolences Wishing you comfort and peace Keeping you in my thoughts My heart is with you in this time of sorrow With love and remembrance  Using quotes can sometimes communicate your sentiments in an eloquent way: &#8220;Some people come into our lives, leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same.&#8221; ~Franz Schubert \u201cThe best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, but just felt in the heart\u201d ~Helen Keller \u201cTo live in hearts we leave behind is not to die\u201d ~Thomas Campbell  Or you can try to make it more personal with details: Mention a great memory about the deceased (eg: that time he took us fishing). 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