Weddings are about being with the people we love, including those that may have passed away. There are many different ways to remember and honor the people who share your day in spirit.
The most traditional (or at least the most common way I’ve seen) to honor a passed family member is by reserving a chair with a flower at the ceremony or by including a memory candle.
Photo Credit: wedsmack.com
Attach an antique locket to your bouquet featuring photos of people who you’d like to accompany you down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Jennifer Schumacher Photography
In a similar fashion, you could attach charms to the back of your shoes for a more subtle token.
Photo Credit: Weddingbee.com
Antique jewelry can be a gorgeous way to remember passed relatives. You can wear an inherited piece of jewelry or wear “something borrowed.”
Photo Credit: Jane Heller via Weddingbee.com
My grandma had beautiful brooches that always remind me of how elegant she was. Adding a couple brooches to your shoe is another subtle way to incorporate small mementos from loved ones.
Photo Credit: EverythingButTheDress.com
Family recipes are some of my family’s most cherished things. It would be a wonderful way to remember people by serving some of your favorite family recipes at the reception. Don’t want to give out secret recipes to your caterer? Give your favorite “top secret (from the back of the bag) recipe” chocolate chip cookies out as favors.
If there is room, include a “heritage table” at the ceremony or reception featuring wedding photos from the generations before you.
Photo Credit: brighthope8.blogspot.com
Of course, your groom may also have people he’d like to honor. Just like your antique jewelry, he can remember passed loved ones by wearing inherited (or borrowed) handkerchiefs or cufflinks.
Photo Credit: Tellez Photography
Many people also include a remembrance message in their programs.
Photo Credit: Renee de Sibour
How are you incorporating and honoring those who can’t be with you?
Comments
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I love the idea of including the deceased parents in the program. It is very sweet and gives the idea of honoring the parents in wedding even they departed from the living.
Lovely ideas. Thanks for the photo credit.