Heartfelt Ways to Honor a Deceased Loved One at Your Ceremony

Ideas by Maddy Sims
Article sourced from The Knot - Updated Jan 12, 2021

by MulberryMarketDesign

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1. Include a Note on the Program

One way to honor a deceased loved one at a wedding is to include them in the program. Add an "In Loving Memory Of" tribute on your program with the rest of your ceremony details. 

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2. Pin Their Photos on You

Sweet Jojo Photography

Place their photos in an ornamental case (perhaps a locket), and pin them to your outfit (inside your jacket or on the neckline of your dress). Another idea? Pin the photos to your bouquet wrap for your walk down the aisle. 

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3. Reserve a Seat in Their honor

by TheRitzyRose

Honor your late loved one with a front row seat by reserving a place at your ceremony. Hang a custom illustration or picture on the front or lay a flower from your bouquet on an empty seat at your nuptials. 

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4. Incorporate Certain Flowers

Image by Tiffany Kay from Pixabay

If you're missing a loved one at your wedding, consider paying homage to them with flowers. Fill the space with their favorite blooms, or simply pick ones that signify remembrance, such as gladiolus, rosemary, pansies and statice. Meghan Markle paid tribute to the late Princess Diana by incorporating forget-me-nots (Princess Diana's favorite flower) into her bridal bouquet in 2018.  Be sure to make a note of it either on the programs or via toast so your guests can appreciate the gesture as well.

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5. Have a Moment of Reflection

Image by Frank Dilorenzo from Pixabay

Yet another interactive way to honor a deceased loved one at a wedding is to incorporate it into the ceremony. At the beginning of your nuptials, have a moment of reflection or silence before carrying on with the celebrations. 

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6. Light a Candle for Them

by JSDelightfulDesigns

There are several different kinds of ceremonies you can perform at your wedding. One we particularly love is lighting a candle to remember a deceased loved one. Either at your ceremony or reception, take a moment to light a candle in their honor. ​

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To view the full article on The Knot and get ideas on how to honor lost loved ones at your reception, click here.