How to Express Your Sympathy When You Cannot Attend the Funeral

Although most people would agree that funeral services for a lost loved one are important, there may be times when someone may simply not be able to attend. This could be due to a strict work schedule or perhaps they live too far away and do not have enough travel time. While attending the service in person is a respectful way to show your sympathy and support, there are other ways to do so if you cannot attend the service live. Directors of funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. share what these are. 

Send a Sympathy Arrangement 

Sending a sympathy flower arrangement is always a token of support that is always welcomed and appreciated by the grieving family. These arrangements can being the family much love and support in their difficult time. 

Send a Plant 

If you would like to send something a little different, consider sending a plant rather than a flower arrangement. While flower arrangements are beautiful and much appreciated by the family, they tend to wilt an die fairly quickly. A plant on the other hand will grow and thrive over time.  This is something that the family can care for and tend to. 

Create a Personal Photo Album of the Deceased 

Creating and sending a photo album of the deceased is a wonderful way to brighten the grieving family’s day. They may have never seen some the pictures, or even if they have, seeing their loved one again in these images and knowing the time and effort you put in making the album will surely bring love into their hearts. 

If you do not have enough images to create an album, considers pulling images off of social media channels like Facebook and Twitter. You could also reach out to other friends and family and ask for any images they could donate. 

Consider Sending Gift Cards 

You may not think of gift cards being the most appropriate gift when it comes to expressing your sympathy, but just stay with us. When you friend is grieving there will be many aspects of their daily life they may simply lack the motivation or will to take care of. 

One of the biggest things that people ignore when they are grieving is cooking for themselves or even eating at all. Adding in one, or more, gift cards to places they can grab a quick meal could be just the thing they need. Also consider gift cards for services such as a house cleaning, dog grooming, dry cleaning delivery, etc. Think of what your friend may need then supply gift cards for their needs. 

Create a Gift Basket 

A gift basket can be a huge help because it can contain so many different items. You could make a “self-care” themed basket full of things like a journal, scented candles, cozy socks, etc. You could also create a food themed basket full of easy snacks, healthy meals, gift cards, and more. 

If you cannot attend services from funeral homes in Ukiah, CA. know that you have several other ways to show your support and love. Just think of what your grieving friend or family member truly needs and select the gift you deem most appropriate.