When someone experiences the loss of a loved one, it can be difficult to know what to do. You want to acknowledge their loss, offer support and let them know you’re thinking of them. However, many people worry about saying the wrong thing or choosing the wrong gift.

Flowers have traditionally been a popular sympathy gesture. They are beautiful, respectful and thoughtful. Yet sometimes you may be looking for something different. Perhaps you’d like to send a gift that lasts longer, provides comfort or feels more personal to the recipient.

If you’re wondering what to send instead of flowers, there are many thoughtful options that can help someone feel supported during a difficult time.

Is It Appropriate To Send A Sympathy Gift?

Yes. A sympathy gift is not about solving someone’s grief. Instead, it’s a way of letting them know they are being thought of and supported during a difficult time. Many etiquette experts note that simple, thoughtful gifts can provide comfort and help people feel seen during periods of loss.

Importantly, sympathy gifts do not need to be extravagant. In fact, the most appreciated gifts are often simple and practical. A small gesture can mean a great deal.

This is especially true when you’re supporting a colleague, neighbour, client or someone you may not know particularly well.

When Flowers May Not Feel Like The Right Choice

Flowers remain a beautiful sympathy gesture. They bring comfort, softness and a visible reminder that people care.

However, there are times when you may want to send something different.

For example:

• The family has already received many floral arrangements.
• You would like to send something that lasts longer.
• You want to provide practical comfort.
• The recipient lives alone and may appreciate something more personal.
• You are sending condolences to a colleague, client or professional contact.

In these situations, a sympathy gift basket or remembrance gift can feel particularly thoughtful.

A Remembrance Tree: A Lasting Expression Of Sympathy

One of the most meaningful alternatives to flowers is a Remembrance Tree Gift.

Unlike traditional floral arrangements, a living tree continues to grow long after the initial period of grief has passed. It can be planted in a garden, lifestyle block or special place and become a lasting tribute to someone who has been lost.

Many people also refer to these as memory trees because they provide a living reminder of a loved one. The symbolism is especially powerful. While flowers are enjoyed for a short time, a tree continues to grow and can become part of a family’s story for years to come.

About Giving’s Remembrance Tree Gift includes a baby tree, planter and white pillar candle. The candle offers a simple gesture of comfort, while the tree represents hope, remembrance and new growth.

For many families, it becomes a deeply meaningful keepsake.

Sympathy Gift Baskets That Offer Comfort

Food and comfort gifts are another thoughtful option.

When someone is grieving, everyday tasks can feel overwhelming. A sympathy gift basket provides practical support while also reminding the recipient that others are thinking of them.

Gift baskets are particularly suitable when sending condolences to:

• Friends
• Family members
• Colleagues
• Clients
• Neighbours

Thoughtfully curated baskets with tea, biscuits, chocolate and comforting treats provide something gentle and easy to enjoy. Practical comfort is one reason sympathy gift baskets remain one of the most popular bereavement gifts.

About Giving offers a range of sympathy gifts that strike the right balance between thoughtful and understated, making them suitable for both personal and professional relationships.

What To Send A Colleague Or Client Who Is Grieving

Many people feel uncertain when a colleague, staff member or client experiences a loss.

You want to acknowledge what they are going through, but you may not know them well enough for something highly personal.

In these situations, a sympathy gift basket or remembrance tree can be an appropriate choice. Both are respectful, thoughtful and professional.

A gift does not need to be large to be meaningful. Simply recognising someone’s loss and letting them know they are in your thoughts can make a genuine difference.

What To Write In A Sympathy Card

Often, people worry more about the message than the gift itself.

The good news is that sympathy messages do not need to be long or elaborate.

Simple messages are often the most effective.

Examples include:

• Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
• With heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences.
• Sending love and support during this time of loss.
• Our thoughts are with you.
• Wishing you comfort and peace in the days ahead.

If you knew the person who passed away, sharing a brief memory can also be meaningful.

The Most Important Thing Is Reaching Out

When someone is grieving, they rarely remember the exact gift they received. What they do remember is who reached out.

Whether you choose flowers, a sympathy basket or a remembrance tree, the gesture itself is what matters most.

A thoughtful gift says, “I’m thinking of you.” Sometimes, that’s exactly what someone needs to hear.

Why Choose About Giving For In Sympathy Gifts?

About Giving has been helping New Zealanders send thoughtful gifts for more than 40 years. Our sympathy gift range has been carefully selected to offer comfort, support and meaningful gestures during difficult times.

From our popular Remembrance Tree Gift, sometimes known as a memory tree, to thoughtful gift baskets and flowers, each gift is beautifully presented and delivered with care throughout New Zealand.

Whether you’re sending condolences to a close friend, a family member, a colleague or a client, About Giving makes it easy to send a gift that feels thoughtful, respectful and appropriate.