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Here's How to Honor Your Parent Who Can't Be With You On the Big Day
02 Sep 2018 •1 min read
Customize your own event checklist with due dates, personal reminders, and timelines for all your wedding to do’s.
Photo by Roman Kraft
Losing a parent is always hard, and not having your mother or father around for major milestones like your wedding can be devastating.
While nothing can compare to your parent being present on the big day, these things will help you honor and show your love and appreciation for those who can't be present.
1Showcase pictures of them.
Decorate your reception with a few old photos of you and your parent, or your parents on their wedding day for a nice sentiment.
2Have a moment of silence.
During the ceremony, have your officiant signal a moment of silence for your loved ones that couldn't be at the wedding. Then, list off their names for a special tribute.
3Have a song played in their honor.
Did your mother love "Somewhere Over the Rainbow?" Maybe your father loved Frank Sinatra? Have the DJ play their favorite song during the reception in remembrance.
4Leave an open seat in the ceremony.
Leave a seat open in the front row where your parent would have sat during the ceremony as a reminder of their presence. Don't forget to leave a little note on the chair letting guests know it's reserved.
5Read a verse from their favorite poem or passage.
Incorporate one of your parent's favorite things in your ceremony reading or vows.
6Carry your mother's favorite blooms.
Carry a bouquet of your mother's favorite flowers, or the same flowers that she carried on her big day.
7Wear a memento that belonged to your parent.
Have your mother's favorite strand of pearls or your father's pocket watch? Carry it with you on your big day, wear it, or tie it onto your bouquet to feel even closer to your lost loved one. If you still have your mother's dress, consider taking a small snippet of the fabric and sewing it to the inside of your gown where your heart is.
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