When someone you care about is grieving, finding the right words can feel almost impossible. 

You want to say something kind. 
You want them to know you’re thinking of them. 
You don’t want to say the wrong thing. 

And sometimes, that tiny gift tag suddenly feels like the hardest thing to write. 

At JoJo Co., we handwrite your gift tag for you, so your sympathy gift can be sent directly to the recipient with care. Our free gift tag has space for a short message of up to 150 characters, or you can choose one of our luxury handwritten cards if you’d like to say a little more. 

So, if you’re sending a bereavement candle and you’re not sure what to write, here are some gentle, thoughtful message ideas you can use exactly as they are - or adapt to sound more like you. 

Short Bereavement Gift Tag Messages 

These are ideal for our handwritten gift tag. 

1. Thinking of you and sending so much love.  
2. With love and deepest sympathy.  
3. Holding you close in my thoughts.  
4. Sending love at this very sad time.  
5. Thinking of you today and always.  
6. With heartfelt sympathy and love.  
7. So sorry for your loss. Sending love.  
8. You are in my thoughts every day.  
9. Sending comfort, love and strength.  
10. With all our love at this sad time.  

Gentle Messages When You Don’t Know What to Say 

Sometimes the most honest thing to say is that there are no perfect words. 

1. I don’t have the right words, but I’m thinking of you.  
2. Words feel impossible, but please know I care.  
3. There are no words, only so much love.  
4. I’m so sorry. You are very much in my thoughts.  
5. Sending this with love when words don’t feel enough.  
6. I wish I could take away the pain. Sending love.  
7. Just a little light to let you know I’m thinking of you.  
8. I’m here, I care, and I’m thinking of you.  
9. Sending love for the days that feel especially heavy.  
10. May this bring a small moment of comfort.  

Bereavement Messages for the Loss of a Mum 

1. Thinking of you as you remember your lovely mum.  
2. Sending love as you grieve your wonderful mum.  
3. Your mum was so loved. Thinking of you always.  
4. With deepest sympathy for the loss of your mum.  
5. Sending love and strength as you remember your mum.  

Bereavement Messages for the Loss of a Dad 

1. Thinking of you as you remember your lovely dad.  
2. Sending love and strength after the loss of your dad.  
3. Your dad was so loved. Holding you in my thoughts.  
4. With deepest sympathy for the loss of your dad.  
5. Sending so much love as you remember your dad.  

Messages for a Friend Who Is Grieving 

1. I’m here for you, always.  
2. Sending love, strength and the biggest hug.  
3. You don’t have to go through this alone.  
4. Thinking of you and here whenever you need me.  
5. I’m so sorry. Sending all my love.  

Messages for the Loss of a Pet 

1. Thinking of you and remembering your beautiful companion.  
2. Sending love after the loss of your much-loved pet.  
3. They were so loved and will never be forgotten.  
4. Thinking of you as you miss your loyal friend.  
5. Sending comfort after such a heartbreaking loss.  

Slightly Longer Bereavement Card Messages 

If you choose one of our luxury handwritten cards, you’ll have more space to say something personal. 

1. I’m so sorry for your loss. I know there are no words that can make this easier, but I wanted you to know I’m thinking of you and sending so much love.  
2. Sending this little light with love. I hope it brings a quiet moment of comfort when you need it most.  
3. I know nothing can take away the sadness, but please know you are surrounded by love and thought of more than you know.  
4. Thinking of you and your family at this heartbreaking time. Sending love, strength and deepest sympathy.  
5. May this candle bring a little warmth and comfort in the days ahead, and remind you that you are not alone.  

What to Avoid Writing in a Bereavement Card 

When someone is grieving, simple is usually best. Try to avoid phrases that might unintentionally minimise their loss, such as: 

• “Everything happens for a reason.”  
• “At least they lived a long life.”  
• “They’re in a better place.”  
• “Stay strong.”  
• “I know exactly how you feel.”  

Even when well meant, these can feel difficult to receive. A softer approach is usually more comforting: 

“I’m so sorry. I’m thinking of you and sending love.” 

Sending a Bereavement Candle When Words Feel Impossible 

A bereavement candle can be a gentle alternative to flowers - something lasting, comforting and meaningful. Our sympathy candles are hand-poured in small batches in our Fife studio and beautifully boxed, with the option to send directly to your recipient anywhere in the UK with a handwritten message from you.  

If you’re still unsure what to write, keep it simple. A short, sincere message is enough. 

Sometimes the kindest words are the quietest ones.