Honor a parent, a grandparent, sibling, friend or even a pet that has passed on, by incorporating them into your wedding, anniversary, memorial service or special event. By doing this you can create a special feeling of togetherness to the whole family throughout the day.
A special reading of the deceased's favorite Bible verse or inclusion of their favorite poem in your wedding program calling out their name is a great way to weave their memory into your event. Other ways may include: Having someone sing a song with special meaning to your loved one during the ceremony or reception. Have the significance of the song announced or indicate it in a program. You could also include a 3-4 minute slide show of your loved ones life during the song. Keepsakes are another way to remind you of them. Maybe they have given you a piece of jewelry. Wear it or keep it close on the special day.
Other suggestions include: Personalized Photos - pin a personalized photo pendant onto your bouquet so you can walk down the aisle with your loved one.
Something Blue-take a small piece of blue fabric from their favorite tie, shirt or suit, and sew it on the underside of your dress.
Reserve a Seat - leave an empty seat and set a framed photo on the chair with special flowers that include a photo pendant. The following day, the floral arrangements can be placed on their grave, along with a wedding photo. The photo pendant can become a necklace, a new keepsake for future generations.
Donate to their favorite charity by placing a special box at your event in memory of the deceased and let guests make contributions to their favorite charity or cause, or to the foundation that does research on cures for the same illness your loved one had. The box can be decoupaged with favorite photos of them.
A Table All Their Own - set up a special small table at the wedding reception with a flower arrangement and tent card or framed card reading "In memory of loved ones who cannot be with us today" or be specific by including their name. Also display a beautifully framed photo of the bride and/or groom with the deceased person you are honoring.
A Family Tree - set a beautiful branch painted white or silver in a vase filled with pebbles, marbles etc. and hang photo pendants of each family member from the branches.
One last classic yet elegant suggestion is to hold a candle lighting during the ceremony in honor of your loved one's memory and let the candles burn throughout the night to symbolize their presence.
Your event is a time to celebrate, but you still want to remember those who can't be with you. So celebrate their memory while creating new ones.
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