Losing a loved one is one of the hardest experiences someone will ever go through. It can feel like such a punch in the stomach. That blow feels extra hard when those special people can’t be there to experience the big milestones in life, like getting married. Since those loved ones can’t be there, it’s important for them to be honored and acknowledged on the day. Here are a few ways you can honor lost loved ones at your wedding.
A Saved Chair: This is one of the most common ways to honor lost loved ones. You leave an empty chair in the first row at the ceremony to represent those who couldn’t be there. Putting a sign on that seat is a good way to make sure people know what that seat is saved for.
Shout out in the Ceremony: Discuss with your officiant when would be a good time to call attention to lost loved ones during the ceremony. The officiant can say a few nice words about those missing on that special day or even just read a list of names of those that couldn’t be present. A moment of silence can be so insanely powerful and make everyone stop to remember those who we have lost and are missing on your special day. This is always a huge tear jerkers and one of the most respectful way to show your respects for a lost loved one during the ceremony.
Memory Table: Create a table in a prevalent place at the ceremony or reception with your favorite photos of your favorite people. This can be a good way to show off your grandparents vintage wedding photos or old photos of you with the person that couldn’t be there. Having their photos around can make it feel like they’re not so far away.
Something Written in the Program: At the bottom of the ceremony program is a good place to say something about those who could not be present on the wedding day. This is a good way to honor your lost loved ones even if you might not be able to say the words aloud.
Take A Shot: This is one of my all time favorite ways to remember a lost loved one. At Kourtney & Tanner’s wedding they took a shot of Kourtney’s dads favorite tequila, Patron, to celebrate their new marriage with their dad that couldn’t be there physically. He was obviously the cool dad! They had custom shot glasses made that went along with the Patron to complete the shot set. This is a little thing that they get to keep with them even after the wedding day. This is a light hearted and more fun way to remember a lost loved one and everyone loved it.
