Finding the perfect way to honor a fallen hero’s memory is a deeply meaningful thing. The beauty of their service and the depth of their absence are deeply personal. But just like the countless ways they touched our lives, their stories can be honored in many different ways. I find memorial gifts to be a great way to hold onto those cherished memories. Whether for yourself or for those grieving, a thoughtful gift can serve as a constant reminder of the love shared and the life so bravely lived. This Memorial Day, let’s celebrate their legacy. Today, I want to help you pick the best Etsy memorial gift. Below are some inspiring ideas to consider, from handcrafted pieces to personalized keepsakes. These gifts allow us to not only remember our heroes but also to share their stories with future generations. Keep scrolling to explore the options!
SomeMagicGift Locket Necklace with Photo
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While there are so many lockets on Etsy, the SomeMagicGift Locket Necklace with Photo caught my eye the most. It offered me the perfect blend of personalization and heartfelt tribute. I chose a rose gold necklace with a chain that felt just right, and for the front, I opted for a simple block font engraving of my brave, old friend’s initials. It was a touching tribute that would be easy to carry with me. On the inside, I had a special message engraved, a personal note that only he and I would share.
The ordering process itself was smooth and hassle-free. After placing my order, I contacted the seller about the photo I wanted to include. They were incredibly helpful, even letting me know that I could have fit two photos if I opted out of the inside engraving. Best of all, it arrived quickly and looked exactly like the pictures. A+!
Pros
- The stainless steel feels sturdy and high-quality.
- The engraving on both sides is crisp and clear.
- You can easily adjust the length.
Cons
- There are only two colors to choose from.
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EvermoreMemorial Memory Lantern
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Lanterns provide light and can symbolize hope as well as remembrance, which is why I think the EvermoreMemorial Memory Lantern is a great option. The lantern is crafted from high-quality wood and metal. When I first had it, it felt both sturdy and timeless. The inscription, “There are some who bring a light so great that even after they have gone, their light remains,” is a beautiful sentiment that offers comfort, especially during Memorial Day.
Furthermore, you can have your hero’s name and years of life engraved on the front, creating a unique and meaningful keepsake. There’s also a dedicated space for a cherished photo at the back, allowing you to display a cherished memory alongside the glowing light. What amazed me the most, though, was the built-in flameless LED candle. It symbolizes the unwavering flame of remembrance that burns brightly within us.
Pros
- It features an automatic timer.
- The handle is sturdy and allows you to hang the lantern.
- The customer service is great.
Cons
- The lantern requires three AAA batteries, and they’re not included.
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SweetPrinceGifts Memory Slate
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The SweetPrinceGifts Memory Slate is a simple yet meaningful memorial gift. As you can see from the picture below, the slate features a beautiful poem. The seller offers a variety of pre-written poems available, but the one that resonated most with me was the one pictured below. It truly captured the essence of my fallen friend’s service.
While I loved the pre-selected poem, the shop also offers a variety of other verses to choose from, ensuring you can find the perfect words to represent your hero. You can also personalize the slate further by adding names and dates, making it a truly unique keepsake. I opted for the larger size, but there’s a smaller option available as well.
Pros
- The image is vibrant and has high resolution.
- The matte finish is simply beautiful.
- It comes complete with plastic feet.
Cons
- The shipping process can be a bit slow.
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ArdentFondness Morse Code Bracelet
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If you’re looking for the best Etsy memorial gifts with a deeper meaning, then this ArdentFondness Morse Code Bracelet is the perfect choice. When I first learned about this bracelet, I was intrigued by the concept, which I found simple yet beautiful. Each bead carries a unique meaning, transforming into a personal story right on your wrist. You can choose a phrase that embodies the values your hero fought for – courage, honor, or even a specific branch of service.
For me, this bracelet is a great way to carry our fallen soldier’s memory with us. Its understated elegance allows for everyday wear, offering a constant, comforting reminder without needing explanation. Additionally, the ability to personalize the bracelet with initials, dates, or a special message makes it an even more meaningful gift for anyone grieving a military loss.
Speaking of which, you should also read these lists of the best bracelet charms Etsy sells and the best Etsy crystal necklaces.
Pros
- There are various primary colors to choose from.
- It can be worn by both men and women.
- The size is adjustable.
Cons
- The color might fade when exposed to lotions or other chemicals.
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PersonalizationMall Look for Me in Rainbows Suncatcher
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Another great addition to this list is the PersonalizationMall Look for Me in Rainbows Suncatcher. This suncatcher is a stunning option to honor our heroes’ service and sacrifice, as their spirits forever sparkle in the warm sunlight. When I first tried displaying it, the genuine Austrian crystals caught the sunlight and cast little rainbows all around my room. I believe it can be a heartwarming reminder of the vibrant spirit and enduring memory of your hero.
What’s more, the seller allows you to add a name (up to 26 characters), dates (up to 16 characters), and even a short message on the piece. I chose to personalize mine with a fallen friend’s name and the years he graced the world with his presence. This personal touch made the suncatcher a truly cherished keepsake. What about the overall quality? The stainless steel disc felt sturdy, and the crystals seemed well-attached. Mine came with a suction cup that easily adhered to my window, so it was simple to hang.
Pros
- It’s not too big or too small.
- It can be used as an elegant decoration.
- The price is reasonable.
Cons
- The custom text is a bit small.
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USShoppingLand Acrylic Picture Frame with Light
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Among all of the Etsy personalized memorial gifts, I think the USShoppingLand Acrylic Picture Frame with Light is one of the best. To me, the biggest selling point of this item is its personalization aspect. It’s not a mere picture frame; it allows you to create a lasting tribute. You can choose a design that reflects your hero’s service, and personalize it further with a title and a heartfelt message. It’s a beautiful way to tell their story through a cherished photo.
“The word ‘beautiful’ can’t even describe this picture frame. It’s a special way to display your memories.”
WOW Travel
Another perk? The variety. The seller offers three different stand designs, so you can pick the one that best suits the photo and your taste. They even have a choice of frame materials, from classic wood to modern acrylic. For a timeless and dignified feel that evoked my fallen friend’s sacrifice, I chose the wooden frame. It felt sturdy and well-made, a fitting tribute to his strength.
Pros
- The built-in light creates a soft glow for the picture.
- There are three stand options to choose from.
- You can customize the color of the text, too.
Cons
- It’s smaller than some people expect.
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How To Choose The Best Etsy Memorial Gift
When choosing a memorial gift, make sure to always keep the following things in mind:
Personalization
I highly recommend choosing gifts that can be personalized to reflect the unique personality, interests, or special memories of the departed loved one. Customized items add a deeply personal touch, making sure the gift resonates with the recipient on a more personal level.
Meaning
Next, select gifts that hold deep significance or symbolism related to the life of the soldier. Whether it’s a cherished hobby, a favorite quote, or a significant date, meaningful gifts evoke memories and emotions, serving as lasting tributes to the person’s legacy.
Durability
You should also choose gifts that are built to last and stand the test of time. Whether it’s a durable piece of jewelry or a timeless piece of artwork, prioritize items that will endure as enduring reminders of your loved one’s impact.
Looking for something antique? Here are the 6 best antique shops on Etsy you should check out!
What is a memorial gift?
A memorial gift is a thoughtful way to honor someone who has passed away. When someone you care about is gone, a memorial gift can be a meaningful way to pay tribute to their life.
Do you take gifts to a memorial?
Bringing a gift to a memorial is not required, but it’s a thoughtful gesture to show your support. A sympathy card, flowers, or a donation to a charity in the deceased’s name are all appropriate options.
Do you wrap a memorial gift?
Wrapping a memorial gift is optional, but it can be a nice gesture. Use tasteful wrapping paper and avoid bright colors or celebratory designs.
Some images on this article are copyrighted by Etsy.
