Wedding bells are ringing. You're getting ready to start the next chapter of your life. The day is almost perfect, except for that one special person who is unable to be there.
Losing a loved one is never easy. This is especially true when there is a momentous occasion, such as a wedding, that you know they will not be able to attend. Whether it is a mother, father, sibling, grandparent or someone you were extremely close with in your life, there are ways for you to honor their memory on your wedding day. No matter how you decide to do this, you should discuss it with other family members also. You don't want the memorial to overshadow the happy day.
Photo Courtesy: On-Location Photography
Wear something special that belonged to them
Whether it is a special handkerchief or tie used to wrap the bouquet, a piece of jewelry, or sewing a piece of their favorite shirt into the lining of your suit or dress, this will allow you to keep a piece of them close to you on your big day.
Use their favorite flowers
Incorporate their favorite flower into your wedding flowers. Or if they didn't have a favorite flower, use flowers in their favorite color.
Light a candle
A subtle way to include your loved one is to light a candle. This can be a public or private way to display your love, in case you are worried about upsetting other guests.
Photo Courtesy: Waddell Vineyards
Set up a picture table
This is a great way to incorporate your loved one, along with all of your great memories. You can set up a special table at your reception with pictures of you and your future spouse, as well as other family members. This is another subtle but meaningful way to include someone who may be missing from your big day.
Include a Remembrance on your program
This is a straightforward way to let all of those present at your wedding know that someone dear to you is missing. It allows you to honor their memory, without potentially overshadowing your day with sadness.
Give a special toast
This doesn't necessarily mean giving a sad speech in their honor. This could be as simple as
reading their favorite love poem or quote.
Dance to their favorite song
Is there a special song that always reminds you of them, or that was their favorite? Take the opportunity to dance to that song at your reception.
A simple gesture to show that your loved one will always be with you can help make your wedding day even more special. Just remember to take the feelings of others who might be missing them into consideration. The length of time since their passing might help you determine how to honor their memory. If it is a recent loss, you may want to try a more subtle way to incorporate their memory.
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