What is Approriate to Write on a Sympathy Card?
Someone close to you has suffered a loss. Perhaps it’s soon to call them, however you want to show your support anyway you can. Suddenly it dawns on you: send flowers! Perfect! I can show my love without being intrusive.
You eagerly find their address and pick out the perfect arrangement to express your shared sorrow. The plan is flawless until….you need to fill out the card. What to say? Words never seem enough when trying to express sorrow or support.
Don’t worry, with 15 years of experience, we have seen thousands of these card messages. Here are our best tips and rules to write by:
Sending to a colleague or employee:
In this circumstance, when a professional relationship is involved, it is best to keep it simple.
“Your friends and colleagues at John Hancock Inc are thinking of you at this time”
“With deepest sympathies. From, Betty, Jackie, Phil and Dave at John Hancock Inc”
“Sincere Condolences. From your Friends and Family at John Hancock Inc”
Sending to the family home:
In this case, there are no rules. Feel free to pour your heart out.
Melanie & Family, You are in our thoughts during this difficult time. We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad and hope that your memories bring you comfort always. We are here for you. Love the Lorandus Family xoxo
Sending to someone with an unexpected or sudden loss:
In this circumstance lengthy messages can be overwhelming. The recipient was caught of guard by this loss and are dealing with their grief and many people reaching out at once. It’s best to keep it short as the act of flowers is enough in itself:
“With great sadness. We are here if you need us. Love, John and Deb”
“Our family is keeping your family in our thoughts and prayers. Love, the MacDonalds”
“Holding you close in my thoughts and hoping you are doing OK. -Jessica”
Sending to a funeral home:
In this situation the family will be busy greeting many mourners through the service and day. The important part here is to clearly convey who the flowers are from for people passing by the arrangement.
Other tips:
-Consider including your last name. The recipient may know several “Jessica’s” or “John’s”
-If you are sending to a funeral home an arrangement that is a bit on the showy side is more appropriate than a posy style or small arrangement.
-If you are sending to a home address a posy style or centerpiece style arrangement is preferred as it can be easy placed anywhere in the home.
-Consider scheduling your delivery for a several days after the news break of the death. Receiving too many deliveries at once may be overwhelming for the recipient.