Weddings are a celebration of two people in love. But, often it is easy to forget that it’s about the community of family and friends who have helped you along the way and reach this point. Whether you want to pay tribute to your parents, grandparents, friends, or loved ones who are no longer with you, finding special ways to honor them can make your wedding feel more personal, celebrate those who you love and create unforgettable moments.
We’ve compiled ten thoughtful and creative ways to honor your loved ones on your wedding day. Both people who are present and those who are to be remembered in spirit.
#01: Include Family Heirlooms
One of the easiest way to honor those who you love are to include family heirlooms into your wedding attire or decor. This is a beautiful way to carry the presence of your loved ones with you. Think beyond something old, and get creative with your ideas!
Sew pieces of your grandmother’s wedding dress into the dress of your gown
Use your parents or grandparent’s cake knife and server to cut the cake
Use champagne glasses that have been in your family for decades to toast the night away
Carry a pocket of your loved one with a photo on your bouquet
Something simple that draws meaning to you and celebrates your loved ones is the perfect way to honor those who you loved. At my wedding, I used my grandfather’s mason pin on my bouquet. It was a simple reminder of his spirit on my wedding day.
#02: Reserve a Seat in their Honor
This is a very simple, yet moving way to honor loved ones who have passed. You can reserve a seat for them at the ceremony. Place a framed photo, a small bouquet, or a sign inscribed “reserved in loving memory of…” to acknowledge their place in your heart and at your wedding. This sweet gesture reminds everyone that even though they are not physically there, they remain a part of your story and your wedding day.
#03: Include a Tribute
Your ceremony or during your wedding toasts is the perfect place to share a heartfelt message or short memory to those who you are honoring. This can include a tribute paragraph during your ceremony, a favorite quote or saying they lived by, or a list of names under “in loving memory.” Moments like these allow your guests to learn more about the people who shaped your life, decisions, and supported you to reach this milestone.
#04: Include Loved Ones in your Speeches
Like we said previously, you can opt for including them in your ceremony or in your toasts. If there are specific family members or friends that have had a significant impact on your relationship, thank them – or mention them in your speech or toast. You can highlight memories or lessons learned from your dad or grandfather. Personal touches add depth to your words and honor their legacy in your love story.
#05: Play Their Favorite Song of Music
Music has the unique ability to draw out emotions and memories. Including a love ones favorite song during your ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception playlist as a subtle nod to their presences is a perfect way to honor their presence. At our wedding, my husband requested that we play “Sweet Caroline” to honor his grandmother, Carol. It was a nod to her presence and reminded his family of the sweet memories they shared. You can play your parents wedding song, a late grandparent’s favorite oldie, or a friend’s favorite dance song during the party. You can even select songs that help your guests feel connected, too.
#06: Create a Memory Table or Display
One of the most often used ideas is to create a memory table or display of those who have passed. You can set up a beautifully arranged memory table at the entrance of your ceremony or reception. Things that you can include are as follows:
Framed photos of loved ones
Candles or Flowers
Handwritten letters, recipes, or quotes
Personal Mementos such as military medals, flags, jewelry etc.
You can add a sign like “In Loving Memory” or “Forever in Our Hearts” to explain the significance to your guests. This is a touching tribute that becomes a conversation piece to share loving memories as well.
#07: As a Loved One to Officiate
If you’re looking outside of a religious official to officiate your wedding, ask a family member of a close friend to officiate your wedding. This can make the ceremony incredibly personable. If someone in your life has played a major role in your journey as a couple – such as a mentor, sibling, or family friend – ask them to marry you. This gesture honors them in a meaningful way, while also creating a deeply emotional, intimate atmosphere.
#08: Use Family Recipes in Your Menu of as Favors
Food speaks volumes, especially if there is a dish that celebrates your roots and family history. Celebrate your family and loved ones by incorporating a beloved family recipe into your wedding. This can be delicious, but also nostalgic. You can honor or pay tribute to a parent, grandparent, Auntie, or celebrate a cultural tradition. We love the ideas of…
Serving your grandma’s famous lasagna or your dad’s signature BBQ ribs at your reception
Offer cookie favors with a handwritten recipe tag from your loved one
Include a signature drink named after a love one.
Food brings people together. It’s the perfect way to honor someone through a share dish.
#09: Include a Moment of Silence
During your ceremony, or at your reception you can consider adding a moment in your timeline to honor your loved ones. You can ask someone to give a toast honoring parents, family, and friends. Think about pausing for a brief moment of silence at the start of dinner. Include a moment of thanksgiving or prayer to honor those who could not be with you today, or light a candle in their memory during the ceremony. Coordinate with your wedding planner and DJ, or emcee to help guide the meant with grace and respect. Even just a few words, can create a powerful emotional connection.
#10: Make it Personal
Decor can carry emotional meaning when infused with personal history. You can consider displaying generational wedding photos, using a family quilt as a backdrop, or incorporate cultural or religious traditions that are unique to your family. Small touches can bring family heritage, traditions, and history into your wedding style and help tell the story of who you are and where you come from.
Creating small pockets of time or effort show intentionality and love. These moments will mean more than you’ll realize. Weddings are deeply emotional, not just because of the joy, but also because of who is and isn’t present at your wedding. Find meaningful ways to honor your loved ones and create special spaces or moments for remembrance, celebration, and connection. Whether it is a subtle nod, spoken tribute, or a table filled with photos, these moments will be cherished and remembered. At the end of the day, your wedding is a reflection of you and your partner. It is a reflection of your love, the story you’ve created, and those who’ve help build your life. Honoring those who have helped you become the person you are is one of the most beautiful things you can do.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 20 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.