Sometimes being invited to a funeral can leave you unsure of how to act. If you didn't know the deceased personally, but you are acquainted with the family, how do you express condolences gracefully? Giving gifts is an appropriate way to show that your heart and sympathy are with the family, but stick to a simple list of appropriate gifts. A badly selected condolence gift isn't a crime, as the National Cremation & Burial Society would say, but it can show a lack of sincerity. Flowers This is the cliche funeral gift and can indeed be overdone. Close family members and friends usually take on the massive arrangements you'll see on the casket and decorating the funeral home or church. If your association with the deceased is only vague, stick to a small bouquet. A small potted plant is also appropriate for the family to keep, but still don't seek to steal the show with your gift. Food Platters The last thing a grieving family wants to do is cook and feed extended family that has flown in for the occasion. Dropping off fruit, veggie, and sandwich platters is a thoughtful way of taking care of the family during their time of need. You can choose to go the extra mile and pick up snacks or frozen pizzas for the little kids, who may have had their fill of deli meats. Adhere to Gift Requests Above all, respect a family's wishes to refrain from buying bouquets or other gifts if they'd prefer you use the money to donate to a specific charity in the deceased person's name. If this is the way the family prefers to honor their loved one, then be generous that way, and the National Cremation & Burial Society would agree. Unless you're a close friend of the family, it is inappropriate to do both or more than what they ask for, except perhaps a card or note expressing sympathy. National Cremation & Burial Society http://www.nationalcremationmilton.com is the largest, oldest, and most trusted Pace funeral home. Call our Milton funeral home for planning services at National Cremation & Burial Society.
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