If you need to attend a wake after someone has died, it is correct etiquette to offer a token of sympathy. You can send flowers or memorial cards for funeral services. These gifts are typically offered to the family of the deceased. They are given during the wake or a few days after the interment.
Giving a basket of blossoms is common practice to show that you empathize with the relatives of the deceased. Be aware that there are appropriate flower species that you can bring to a service. Some of these include roses, lilies, and carnations. The blooms can be presented as a wreath or in a basket.
If you want to give something that will last a lifetime, consider giving a plat or tree. You may present this in a small pot at the funeral service. You can also send it to the residence of the grieving family. As a lifetime remembrance to the dead, the plant or shrub can be planted in the garden.
You may also give a donation to a charity in lieu of flowers and traditional gifts. The departed or the family left behind may patronize a particular charitable group. You could make a cash donation to the organization in memory of the dead. Your contribution can be dedicated to the deceased.
A guestbook is a necessity if the family of the deceased is holding a wake. Visitors can sign their name on the book so relatives can later go through the list after the burial. You can offer to provide a customized guestbook that guests can use to leave their mark of their presence at the memorial service.
Check out some note cards where you can write a short message of sympathy. There are those with pre-printed words of condolences and others that are blank where you can inscribe your own message. Send yours with a bouquet of flowers or a potted plant.
