When a close family friend or relative passes away it seems only right to remember and honour them in such a way that doesn’t overshadow or darken the joyous occasion of your wedding day. Weddings are a celebration and while it can be bittersweet remembering those who can’t be there, grief shouldn’t overcome the day.
So, how do you strike the balance between bittersweet and all out bawling your eyes out ‘My Heart Will Go on’ kind of tears (don’t lie, you cried when it first came out too!)? Well these ideas are just some suggestions on how to honour missing loved ones at your wedding:
Photo love
Include photos of all of your relatives as part of your table décor. Maybe these are photos of past weddings or celebrations. They could even be photos of you with different family members!
Seating plan
Why not create an seating plan at your entrance with a table dedicated to names of people who can’t be with you? This is a very discreet but cute way of mentioning them and their presence on your day.
Something old
Wear something that belonged to them. Maybe it’s some jewellery or something customized.
Light a candle
Why not light a particular candle for that person? Candles are often a metaphor for the deceased as well as being a symbol for hope. If candles are apart of your décor, maybe you can find a special colour to make that one stand out about the rest?
Some tips on dealing with emotional situations
Personal comfort levels
Has this death been quite recent? Bear in mind that everyone processes grief at different rates and that you need to be comfortable with the amount of emotional triggers you have at your wedding. Maybe it’s a moment of silence that triggers you or a speech, but it’s important to ask yourself how much you can handle. While it is okay to be emotional on your wedding day, some people may not be comfortable with displaying their emotions publicly.
Do acknowledge them
Above all, acknowledging the person should be important. Not only is it respectful to the person but it is also good for closure and for your family.
What would he/she want
Think about what this person would like to be said about them and how they would like to be mentioned. If they were an outgoing person, maybe they would be happy with something grand and show stopping! If they were discreet and quiet, they might like something smaller. Try to imagine what that person would say if they were in the audience!
