When someone you know loses a loved one, there are many ways to express your sympathy. No matter what type of sympathy gift you choose to give. It's likely to be deeply appreciated by the recipient. These gifts often take the form of personal service during the immediate bereavement period, such as providing meals, doing errands, looking after children or pets, or simply being there. Other sympathy gifts may serve as lasting memorials to the deceased, or as comforting reminders of a life well lived.

 First of all, you may send flowers, especially weeks after the funeral, when the attention has dwindled, and the family may be on their own to deal with their grief. Sympathy baskets are the most popular gifts. You may design your own or order one from a florist or gift basket store.

Another possible way of expressing your sympathy is preparing meals that can be used both when the house is full of people and later, when it's hard to muster the energy to cook.

Also you may give the family the gift of your companionship. A dinner out, a movie, or just spending an afternoon with the bereaved will help make his or her grief more bearable.

Many people find comfort in inspirational books and music. If you are familiar with the bereaved religious beliefs, you may be able to find an appropriate book or recording.

Making a voluntary donation in the name of the deceased to the charity of the family's choice may be an appropriate sympathy gift.

During a sad time of loss it is often hard to know what to say or do. Special sympathy gifts will help you to express your thoughts, and to let the others know how much you care.