The day that you get married is by far one of the most exciting days of your life. The hard reality, however, is that many of the people you love the most, won’t always be able to attend your wedding day. So, if you are someone who has lost a loved family member or friend, this article is for you. Today we will show you different ways that you can commemorate a lost loved one on your wedding day.
A Photo Display
This idea can be tackled in a number of ways. For example, you can set up a table or board at your reception that guests can look at. Or, just putting photos on a saved seat during your wedding ceremony can make you feel like they are still apart of your special day. The images below should give you some inspiration.
Add Them To Your Wedding Dress
Why not stitch on a favorite photo of a relative on the train of your wedding dress? Or, a piece of your veil? This can be an intimate reminder that they are with you on your big day. And, if you don’t want a photo, don’t be afraid to put a small heart or symbol on your dress that reminds you of them.
Picture Chains
Nothing showcases your lost loved one quite like carrying them with you down the aisle. Add a chain of pictures going down the side, or just wrap their favorite handkerchief around your bouquet. Hopefully, these photos can give you more direction and inspiration.
Wear Their Wedding Band
A great idea for including a lost loved one would be wearing their wedding band around your wrist as a bracelet or dangling around your neck as a necklace. Or, even wear it in addition to the wedding band you’ll be receiving during the ceremony. This will help you, and the rest of your family, to feel like your lost loved one is apart of your day.
Set A Place For Them
I have seen this done before at several weddings, and it has always given me goosebumps. If your family member can’t be here with you, leave a spot open for them as if they were. You can put whatever reminds you of your lost loved one the most on the chair. I have seen single white roses, family heirlooms, barn boots, and jewelry. Talk it over with the rest of your family and decide what you would like best.
Hold Framed Photos
During the ceremony, have trusty bridesmaids and groomsmen hold pictures of your lost loved ones. This can help you to visualize that they are here on your big day as you waltz down the aisle. Not to mention this is an easy way for both you and your husband-to-be to include your lost loved ones.
In Memory
Buy flowers or a plaque to commemorate those you’ve lost. You can include in your program that the flowers are in memory of someone. Or, put the plaque at your reception. Also, another good idea would be to donate to a charity of your choice in honor of your lost loved ones.
Though nothing can replace having your lost loved one at your wedding, these ideas can help to soothe the pain. If you have any further thoughts or pictures of what you did at your wedding, feel free to share them in the comments below!
