There’s no easy way to deal with the loss of someone you care about. It’s an incredibly trying time for all involved, but especially the family of the deceased. There’s so much you want to do or say, but you may not be able to easily work out the right things or words to convey everything you want to. That’s why giving something heartfelt that expresses your sympathy can be a good idea. Doing so will not only communicate your sympathy to them, but it will also act as a symbolic reminder that you’re thinking about them and are always there for them should they need you. If you don’t know what items best communicate this, read on for 5 ideas.

1. A Bunch of Flowers

The most popular gift to give the family of the deceased is flowers. Whether presented or delivered to the family’s house upon news of the loved one’s passing, or given at the funeral, flowers are always a nice way to show your sympathies.

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to picking the right flower. If you know of the deceased person’s favorite flower, it is always a lovely gesture to make a bouquet featuring those flowers. Otherwise, there are certain flowers that carry symbolic meanings at this time that are most appropriate for such a time. For instance, common sympathy flowers include white lilies, orchids, and irises.

2. A Gift Basket

While flowers are a safe bet, you may be looking for a different way to convey your sympathy that is equally as heartfelt and meaningful. An edible bouquet is an ideal alternative. If you’re not sure what an edible bouquet is, it’s a hand-selected assortment of chocolates and fruits that are carefully arranged to look like a bouquet of flowers.

They are as beautiful as they sound. What’s more, there is a bouquet for any occasion, including sympathy fruit baskets. For instance, the Loving Memories Bouquet™ features the brand’s signature pineapple hearts, as well as semisweet chocolate dipped strawberries. Whereas the Peace & Doves Bouquet™ Swizzle Berries ® & Apples bouquet features will wholeheartedly express your sympathies with various fresh fruits, and dove-shaped pineapples pieces that are hand-dipped in delicious white chocolate.

3. A Home Cooked Meal

Dealing with a loved one’s death cannot only be emotionally overwhelming, but it can also be incredibly challenging in terms of time and money. The family often becomes rundown with all of the small and big tasks related the death, and may find themselves not taking a moment to themselves.

This is particularly true of meal preparation. Who has time to eat properly when they’re dealing with far bigger issues? That’s why making the family a home cooked meal can be a very welcome gift. Whether a baked dish, a plate of cookies, or something else, the family is sure to appreciate the effort and thought behind this gift.

4. A Photo & Photo Frame

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, which is precisely why a photo frame complete with a poignant photo of the deceased is one of the best gifts to give at their passing. You may choose to give a photo of the loved one by themselves that represents their character well, or a special one of just the two of you.

The most important thing is to choose a photo that reflects the person well—whether that be of their smiling face or doing one of their favorite things. It’s a gift that the family can cherish and keep as a reminder of just how loved they were. Choose a frame that suits the photo and isn’t too flashy (unless that was their aesthetic).

5. An Artwork

Gifting the family a meaningful piece of artwork is yet another thoughtful gift idea that will be well-received. It’s a gift that can be treasured for years to come, and does a strong job of demonstrating your feelings towards them.

Whether you choose to buy artwork or make one yourself is up to you. If you want to buy something, you can buy or even commission a handmade artwork online at an online marketplace for handmade goods like Etsy, or even go to a local artisan market. If you want to make something, there are a number of ideas about what type of artwork to make. Perhaps it could be a sketching of the person or a painting of the ocean or flowers. Or, you may choose to go for something more abstract, like a symbol that represents them. So long as it comes from the heart, you can’t go wrong.