Weddings are joyous occasions filled with happiness and celebration. But they can also be bittersweet when there is special loved one who did not live to see your special day. So, how do you honor your deceased loved ones at your wedding?
Many couples choose to honor those who are no longer with us on their wedding day. They want to honor and remember the deceased loved ones without getting too maudlin and melancholy.
There are several thoughtful and touching ways to honor those who are with us only in spirit.
You can:
- Wear a necklace or ring that belonged to the person (for a man, wear a tie or cufflinks that belonged to the person)
- Wear a locket with a photo of the special person, or pin it to your bouquet or your groom’s boutonniere
{original photo was cropped}
- Carry your grandmother’s handkerchief
- Have a special memorial table with photos of those you wish to honor
- Light a candle in their memory
- Include their favorite flower in your bouquet
- Have your officiant can lead your guests in a moment of silence
- Include an “In Loving Memory” section in your wedding program
- Place an empty chair at the ceremony to represent those who are not there (You may attach a small sign to the chair explaining its significance if you want)
- Play a song that was a favorite of the person you want to honor
- Have someone recite a poem that was a favorite of the person
- Make a toast in their memory with that person’s favorite drink
- In lieu of favors, make a donation in their honor
Photo Credit: Willow Glen Stationery
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
If you have questions or are looking for ideas, contact me at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net or at 937-581-3647.