Holiday Memorial Gift Guide: Honoring Memories & the Signs They’re Still With Us
The holidays have a way of stirring up memories – especially of those we miss the most. Whether it’s the empty chair at the table or the quiet corner of the living room, grief can feel especially heavy this time of year.
For me, this part of my journey began after losing my mom 15 years ago. We lived in different states – her in Maine and me in New Jersey – but every December she’d visit during the second week, and I’d have the house fully decorated – just how she loved it. That was our special time… mother and daughter, best friends.
One tradition I still keep is sitting quietly by the Christmas tree when the house has finally settled. I let myself reflect. Some nights the tears come easier than others, but so do the memories – and the laughter, oh so much laughter!
The funny thing is, when I catch myself truly laughing, I can hear my mom’s laughter in me. To me, that’s a sign she’s right beside me, sharing the moment.
One of the most meaningful gifts I still treasure is a ceramic ornament my mom made for me after my grandmother passed. It holds my “Mema’s” photo and hangs by my desk to this day. I like to think that was the start of all this – before I even knew where it would lead.
I’ve included a photo of that ornament here. It’s simple, but it means the world to me – and it’s been a quiet inspiration behind so many of the keepsakes I now create.
I’m also a lifelong dog and cat mom – and over the years, I’ve said goodbye to many beloved furkids.
Their absence is deeply felt during the holidays too. Whether it’s seeing their stocking still hanging, remembering how they’d curl up by the tree, or open their presents on Christmas morning, that kind of love never leaves us. It simply takes on a new form - one we carry in our hearts furever.
Creating memorial keepsakes for the holidays is my way of helping others hold on to that love, while keeping the memories of their loved ones beautifully alive. When you order your keepsakes from us, each one is created with heart and meaning. My hope is that when someone receives one, they feel a sense of comfort - a closeness to the ones they miss. Every design is made to be a gentle reminder that you’re not alone in your grief and that the bond you shared still surrounds you - a love that time, or anyone, can never take away.
And for a lot of us, especially around the holidays, we seek the signs that our loved ones are near. Cardinals always bring comfort, but I especially look for them at Christmastime (or right after a snowfall).
A Recent Moment That Touched My Heart: With my dad’s passing this year, I found myself hoping to see a sign that my parents had been reunited. They lived up in Maine, and not long ago I saw a pair of deer standing right in front of their home - a buck and a doe. It brought tears to my eyes, and in that instant, I knew it was a sign they were together again in the place they loved most - their home in the northwoods of Maine. The image above is a reflection of how I imagine their spirits - peaceful, side by side, surrounded by the beauty of nature they cherished so much.
So whether you’re shopping for yourself or someone close to you who’s grieving this season, I hope this guide helps you find something special. Something that speaks to your heart. Something that says, “I remember. I care. I miss you. I still love you.”
Featured Holiday Memorial Gifts
The Angel Clothing Keepsake Ornament was created to help others keep a meaningful part of someone dear close by in a beautiful and comforting way. Each ornament holds a small piece of your loved one’s favorite shirt, blanket, or other cherished fabric, turning it into a heartfelt tribute you can see and hold. It also offers a special way to gather with family or friends - reflecting, sharing stories, and honoring precious memories together.
→ Order Your Angel Keepsake Ornament
🎁 Christmas in Heaven Ornaments & Frames
Honor those who can’t be here this season with our Christmas in Heaven collection. These ornaments and photo frames are perfect for placing on a mantle, next to a favorite chair, or hanging on the tree.
→ Shop the Christmas in Heaven Collection
🕊️ Memorial Ornaments
Sometimes, it’s the smallest things that help us feel closest to the ones we’ve lost. These personalized memorial ornaments are a gentle way to honor someone special - with names, photos, meaningful phrases, and quiet beauty that brings comfort all year long.
🐾 Pet Memorial Ornaments
Pets are family, and their absence is deeply felt at the holidays. Our personalized pet ornaments - featuring pawprints, Rainbow Bridge themes, and name options -offer a sweet way to honor your furkids memory.
💛 Closing Thoughts
Grief doesn't take a break for the holidays -but neither does love. My hope is that through these keepsakes, you're reminded that those we miss are never truly gone. They’re with us in every story shared, every smile that slips through tears, and every quiet moment of reflection.
Written by Kim, founder of Sunrise Keepsakes Co., inspired by 15 years of personal grief and helping others honor those they love.