It is never easy to lose a loved one. It's especially difficult when that loved one is your life partner or significant other. Those first few days and weeks after losing a spouse are the most difficult.
The only thing that makes these tragic moments bearable is the support of those you care about the most. If your loved one is a newly widowed or bereaved widow, the right sympathy gift can go a long way. Many of these people want to express themselves and be heard.
Though it can be difficult to know what to say to a bereaved widow, a thoughtful gift and the right message can mean more than you realize. It makes all the difference to be there for someone who is in need. If you're at a loss for what to get your loved one during this difficult time, consider these 18 thoughtful gift ideas for recently widowed or grieving widows.
1. Home-cooked meal
Sometimes the best gifts are your time and a home-cooked meal. This could be a difficult day for your loved one. Even though it is a time for celebration, it is also a time for mourning.
Being a gift for them on this day and preparing one of their favorite meals is the ideal gesture. Choose a meal they enjoy, preferably something comforting, and spend the day with them.
2. Memorial jewelry
If your loved one has their deceased spouse's lock of hair or cremated remains, you can send them in to be turned into a memorial diamond. After a consultation and a few months of waiting for the diamond to grow, you'll have a unique diamond that can be set in a ring, necklace, or other piece of jewelry.
Some companies, such as Eterneva, produce lab-grown diamonds and allow you to choose from a variety of cuts and colors for your gemstone.
3. Journal and pen
The best gifts are sometimes the simplest: reflection and time. It's okay if your loved one isn't ready to talk about their loss with you.
A journal and a nice pen provide them with the space and security they need to express their emotions.
4. Plant
Plants are a symbol of rebirth and newness. While sending flowers to express your condolences after a loss is common, flowers are only temporary.
A sympathy plant can live for many years, even hundreds of years. A tree, small plant, or even a succulent is a beautiful tribute to life and remembrance.
5. Self-care items
It's difficult to find time for yourself after a loss. By giving your loved one self-care items such as bath bombs, soaps, and oils, you are reminding them of the importance of prioritizing themselves.
They will reflect on the importance of wellness by taking this time.
Gifts for a Grieving Surviving Spouse for the Holidays or Christmas
After losing someone so close, the holidays and Christmas can be especially difficult. Because these close family members are the ones who help us celebrate the holidays, it's natural for them to change after the death of a spouse. With these gift ideas, you can help with this time of year.
6. Warm blanket
Few things in life are as soothing as a warm blanket. Having something warm to wrap yourself in on those chilly nights makes all the difference.
Get him or her something that can be used in all seasons as a reminder that comfort is always nearby.
7. Baked goods
Receiving baked goods during the holiday season has a special meaning. Make some of his or her favorite desserts if you're a skilled baker.
If not, go to your local bakery to find the right selection for them. When you're feeling down, reaching for a sweet treat can be extremely beneficial.
8. Streaming service
The holidays can be difficult, especially when surrounded by so many reminders of loved ones and years gone by. The holidays just don't feel the same as they used to.
Give your favorite streaming service to take your loved one's mind off things during these difficult times. A few hours of escape via TV and film on Netflix or Hulu can provide them with time to recharge just in time for the season.
9. Book or ebook
A book or ebook that they can turn to when they need to escape to another world is another welcome distraction.
Even if the story has nothing to do with grief or loss, putting yourself in the shoes of another character in a favorite story can be therapeutic.
10. Care package
A care package is a great idea for a grieving widow during the holidays if you have the time to make it yourself.
A care package containing self-care items, favorite foods, movies, or even small trinkets is a fun and practical gift to receive.
