Your wedding day is one of the most special times of your life. And, of course, you want everyone to be there. If either of your parents has passed, there are ways that you can remember them. Here are five thoughtful ways to honor deceased parents.

When it comes to planning your special day, you want your loved ones to be involved. Of course, one of the hardest struggles can be planning it without one of your parents by your side.

Many couples deal with missing a lost loved one on their special day. It’s natural to miss your mother or father and seek a way to memorialize them in a special way.

You can choose to do something privately for you or honor them publicly for your guests. Either way, here are five beautiful ways you can honor deceased parents on your wedding day.

5 Ways to Honor Deceased Parents

1. Wear something that reminds you of your mom or dad.

One great way to honor a lost parent privately is by wearing something that will remind you of them. This can keep them close to your heart on your special day. It also doesn’t too much attention to their absence.

You can add a special something to your bouquet, such as a picture frame or a necklace. Another option is to wear a pair of your mother’s earrings or have the groom wear their late father’s tie.

2. Reserve a seat to honor deceased parents.

It’s tradition to have both the bride and groom’s parents sit on the front row for the ceremony. Instead of filling that seat, have a seat reserved for them.

You can place their ashes on the chair or set up a small memorial for them if you’d like. That way they can have a front-row seat for your special day.

3. Play your mom or dad’s favorite song.

If you’re looking for another private way to honor your deceased parent, play their favorite song at your wedding. This can be a song you dance to with your other parent during the reception.

It could also be a song during cocktail hour or even the song you walk down the aisle to after you say I do. When you choose to play this song will largely depend on the song. However, it can be a nice subtle way to honor them on your special day.

4. Create a memory table in their honor.

If you’re looking to incorporate your deceased loved one into your reception, set up a memory table for them. You can arrange a framed photo of family members who have passed.

Another option is to have a box where you can have guests write down a memory they shared with them. You can decorate the table with flowers, or just keep it simple with a frame and some kind words.

5. Recreate your mother’s bouquet to honor her memory.

This is specific to those who have lost their mother. Although it’s a beautiful way to honor her on your wedding day.

Recreate her wedding bouquet on your special day or incorporate some of the flowers into your own bouquet. It’s a fabulous way to add a special touch to your day. What a subtle yet beautiful way to honor her without drawing attention to it.

FAQ About Honoring Parents Who Have Passed

How do you honor dead parents at a wedding?

Depending on your preferences and cultural traditions, there are several ways to do this. One common way is to set up a memorial display at the wedding venue, where you can place photographs or sentimental items that belonged to your parents. This beautiful tribute allows guests to remember and honor them throughout the celebration.

How do you mention a deceased parent in a wedding ceremony?

Another way to mention a deceased parent in a wedding ceremony is through a special moment of remembrance. You can do this during the ceremony itself, where the officiant or a close family member acknowledges the presence and importance of the parent who has passed away. It could be a heartfelt reading, a moment of silence, or even a symbolic gesture like lighting a candle in their memory. This pays tribute to your loved one and allows everyone present to share in the memory.

How do you honor a deceased family in a wedding program?

Include a dedicated section acknowledging and remembering them. Write a few sentences expressing gratitude for their presence in spirit. Another option is to include their names and a memorable, significant quote.

How do you mention a dead parent in a wedding script?

Do so with grace and respect. One option is to include a special tribute or moment of silence during the ceremony. A few moments can be a touching way to pay homage to their presence and impact on the couple’s lives.

How do you honor dead parents at a wedding?

A display table or mention in the program is a subtle yet meaningful way. It also won’t overshadow the joyous occasion. The couple may also incorporate a symbolic gesture, such as lighting a candle in memoriam.

How to include a deceased parent in a wedding speech?

Share fond memories, express gratitude, and acknowledge the parent’s impact during a more intimate setting at the wedding reception or rehearsal dinner.