Hi everyone. Happy new year to all!
Newly engaged? Congratulations! Planning your wedding? Lots to do!
I have had discussions with couples who wanted to make sure that the family members who have passed away were honored in some way during their ceremony. As a wedding officiant, I always ask my couples if they want to do a “moment of silence” at the beginning of the ceremony? This could be for anyone who has passed away, parents, siblings, grandparents, important people in their lives, etc. I always recognize loved ones who have passed by saying, “though they may not physically be with us, know they are here in spirit.” I have also had many couples who want to mention specific people by name and do something special in their honor. This does not have to be sad or somber. It can be festive and light as well (American Marriage Ministries https://theamm.org/articles/445-honoring-the-memory-of-loved-ones-in-your-wedding-ceremony.) There are many ways to do that…below are just some examples:
- Add photos of those who have passed and place them in the front row (on an empty seat)
- Add pictures and place them on a table at the end of the aisle
- Reserve a seat for them at the front of the ceremony, with a photo, flower, candle, or special item
- Light a candle during the service in memory of ALL who have passed
- Share how important they were in the couple’s life with a short story
- Add an heirloom/photo to the bouquet or the boutonniere
- Incorporate a special flower into the bouquet or the boutonniere
- Play a special song for walking down the aisle
- Make a note in the program
The above are just some ideas. Ask your wedding officiant how they might be able to incorporate the loved ones into the ceremony. CBL is here to help…just send us a note.