How to Prepare a Sympathy Gift Basket

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By QueenofMisc
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Prepare a Sympathy Gift Basket

Take special care when putting together a sympathy gift basket. Whatever items you choose must convey the soft and appropriate message, with no confusion what-so-ever, that you are deeply sorrowful for the loss of their loved one. It is a careful and delicate undertaking which must be demonstrated with wisdom and mercy. But you can do it.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Consider your own emotions.

Step 1

Include a simple box of “thank you” cards, pretty postcards or a nice set of stationery; and don't forget the stamps! Later, they will want to communicate their thanks to those who were there for them in their time of bereavement.
Step 2

Choose a nice and decorative phone book. This also encourages communication. Assign a close friend/relative to get pertinent and updated information from others such as addresses, phone numbers, cell phones, email, pagers, etc.

These life lines as listed in numbers one and two provide an unspoken confirmation that others will be available with help when needed.
Step 3

Select a simple journal to encourage the individual to be aware of their emotions during this difficult time and to write them down when they feel up to it. Writing down one’s emotions can be cathartic and for many, it can promote healing as they go through the grieving process.
Step 4

Do some research. Talk with those who are close to them. Try to find out a gift they would absolutely cherish. Research this thoroughly and accurately. Include it if you can.
Would a soothing “CD” be appropriate. Choose carefully. Instrumental might be best to help relax them after all the guests leave each day.
Step 5

Include a comfort item such as a soft shawl a lady can wrap up in. Maybe a man would appreciate a foot massager or one of those rubber stress balls to squeeze.
Step 6

Write a simple note. Explain in a short paragraph how inept you feel but you will help in whatever way you can. Choose your words carefully because once written down they will last always.
Step 7

Find out from others if it would be helpful or hurtful for you to include an item given to you by the deceased that you now want to give to them. Include it with a note stating that the deceased gave it to you and you would like for them to now have it. If it would be more hurtful, do not do it.
Step 8

Get a few personal food snacks that this individual can enjoy alone or with a few others. Include a few of their favorite snack foods or a new one that you think they might enjoy.
Step 9

Try to interest them in a book of poetry. A book of short prayers can be soothing. The writings and poetry of Helen Stiner Rice is thought by some to be very inspirational.
Step 10

Pay for a get away trip for the individual and a friend or a relative. Only go this route if you can afford and if it would be in their best interest to get away for a while. They would not have to leave immediately. They could plan the trip when it is most convenient for them. Allow the time needed for them to gather themselves and to settle any other pertinent matters. Maybe several others would like to chip in to help pay for the trip. Include the trip info in the basket.
Step 11

Have the basket beautifully wrapped but don't make it a showy presentation. Select something that says you are wearing your heart on your sleeves; and your heart is filled with love for the individual suffering loss.