Honoring Deceased Parents: Wedding Invitation Wording

Planning a wedding is an exciting time, but it can also be difficult if you're missing a loved one. Honouring a deceased parent on your wedding invitation is a thoughtful way to include them in your special day. While there is no right or wrong way to do this, here are some ideas to consider:

- Include their name on the invitation: You can word it as son/daughter of [your name] and the late [parent's name].

- Use Together with their families: This phrase can be a simple way to include all family members without specifically mentioning your deceased parent.

- Feature a memorial table: Display photos, candles, or other mementos of your parent at the wedding venue.

- Wear a memento: Carry something of theirs with you, such as a piece of fabric or jewellery.

- Play their favourite song: Music can be a powerful way to evoke memories and honour your parent during the ceremony or reception.

Include their name on the invitation

There are many ways to honour a deceased parent on a wedding invitation. Here are some suggestions for including their name:

Traditional Wording

If you're inviting guests to witness the marriage of your son or daughter, you could use the following traditional wording:

> Mr. and Mrs. [Your Names]

> request the honour of your presence

> at the marriage of their daughter/son

> [Name of Bride/Groom]

> to [Name of Groom/Bride]

> son/daughter of Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Deceased Parent] and Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Other Parent]

Modern Wording

Alternatively, for a more modern approach, you could use the following wording:

> [Your Names]

> together with their families

> invite you to share in the joy of the marriage

> of their daughter/son

> [Name of Bride/Groom]

> to [Name of Groom/Bride]

> son/daughter of Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Deceased Parent] and Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Other Parent]

Honouring Stepparents

If you would like to include a stepparent, you could use wording such as:

> [Name of Bride/Groom], son/daughter of [Name of Deceased Parent] and the late [Name of Stepparent]

Or

> [Name of Bride/Groom], son/daughter of Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Deceased Parent] and Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Name of Stepparent]

"In Loving Memory" Section

Another option is to include a special "In Loving Memory" section in your invitation, where you can list the names of your deceased parent and any other loved ones who are unable to attend. This can be a heartfelt way to honour their memory and let your guests know that they are in your thoughts.

Honouring Multiple Deceased Parents

If both of your parents or your partner's parents have passed away, you can still find meaningful ways to include them. Here is an example of how you could word the invitation:

> [Your Names]

> together with their families

> invite you to share in the joy of the marriage

> of [Name of Bride/Groom], daughter/son of the late [Names of Deceased Parents]

> to [Name of Groom/Bride], son/daughter of the late [Names of Deceased Parents]

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to wedding invitations. You can customise the wording to fit your unique family dynamics and relationships. Feel free to modify the suggestions provided to create invitations that truly reflect your wishes and honour your loved ones.

Reserve a seat for them at the ceremony

Honouring a deceased parent on your wedding day can be a beautiful way to acknowledge their absence while also allowing you to focus on the ceremony and celebrations ahead. One way to do this is by reserving a seat for them at the ceremony. Here are some ideas to help you plan this special tribute:

Choose a Seat in the Front Row

Reserve a seat in the front row to honour your late parent. This way, they are close to you during the ceremony, and you can even dress up the chair with special decorations. It will be a touching reminder of their presence and a way to keep them in your thoughts.

Decorate the Chair

There are several ways to decorate the reserved chair and make it a meaningful tribute. Here are some suggestions:

• Use their jacket or hat: Place their jacket or hat on the chair to symbolise their presence and make it feel like they are sitting there with you.
• Add a bouquet of flowers: A beautiful bouquet similar to the ones carried by the bridal party can be placed on the chair. White roses are an excellent choice as they symbolise remembrance and honour.
• Block the seat with ribbons and a custom sign: Use ribbons to block off the seat and add a custom sign with a heartfelt message or a simple "Reserved" note.
• Display a photo: Place a framed photo of your late parent on the chair. It can be a recent picture or a cherished memory from their life.

Include a Special Sign or Note

If you wish to explain the significance of the reserved seat to your guests, you can add a special sign or note. Here are some ideas for what to include:

• A simple message: "Reserved for someone special", "In loving memory", or "Reserved for [name of parent]".
• A meaningful quote: Choose a quote that reflects your parent's spirit or a passage from their favourite book.
• A heartfelt tribute: Write a few words about your parent, expressing your love and honouring their memory.

Involve Your Officiant

If you would like to include a moment of recognition during the ceremony, you can ask your officiant to say a few words about your late parent. They can acknowledge their absence and their presence in your hearts before proceeding with the celebrations. It can be an emotional way to honour your parent and create a sense of inclusion during the ceremony.

Incorporate their favourite flowers

Honoring a deceased parent on a wedding invitation can be tricky, and it's important to consider your comfort level and that of your loved ones. While you may choose to omit mentioning your late parent on the invitation, there are creative ways to incorporate their favorite flowers as a heartfelt tribute. Here are some ideas to tastefully honor them:

• Bouquet and Boutonniere: One meaningful way to include their favorite flowers is by featuring them in your bridal bouquet or boutonniere. This allows you to carry a piece of your parent with you as you walk down the aisle. You can also add a photo charm to your bouquet, enclosing a picture of your late parent, for an even more personal touch.
• Aisle Decor: Transform the wedding aisle into a beautiful tribute by incorporating their favorite blooms as aisle markers. This creates a visually stunning display and serves as a reminder of your parent's presence.
• Floral Centerpieces: If your parent had a favorite type of flower, consider using it as the focal point of your wedding centerpieces. This idea is especially fitting if you plan to host a memorial table at the reception, adorned with photos and mementos of your late parent. The flowers will enhance the tribute and serve as a conversation starter for guests who wish to share memories.
• Floral Buttonholes: For a subtle nod to your parent, you can opt for floral buttonholes or small bouquets for the wedding party to wear. This gesture is a delicate reminder of your parent's favorite flowers without being overly prominent.
• Floral Accessories: Think beyond traditional floral arrangements and consider incorporating their favorite flowers into your wedding accessories. For example, you can adorn your hair with floral crowns or hairpins featuring their beloved blooms. Alternatively, grooms and groomsmen can wear floral lapel pins or pocket squares showcasing the chosen flower.
• Floral Details on Cake: Another unique way to incorporate their favorite flowers is by having them adorn your wedding cake. Whether it's through delicate sugar paste flowers or fresh blooms, this unexpected detail will be a beautiful tribute to your late parent.

Remember, these ideas can be tailored to fit your vision and comfort level. You may choose to implement one or a combination of these suggestions to honor your parent through their favorite flowers on your wedding day.

Wear something of theirs

Wearing something of your deceased parent's is a wonderful way to honour their memory on your wedding day. It can be a comforting way to feel their presence with you as you walk down the aisle and celebrate your marriage. Here are some thoughtful ideas to incorporate something of theirs into your wedding attire:

Accessories

A pocket square, handkerchief, or scarf in a pattern or colour they loved can be a subtle yet meaningful addition to your outfit. You could also wear a piece of their jewellery, such as cufflinks, a necklace, a watch, or a brooch. If you want to add a personal touch to your bouquet, consider wrapping the stems with a handkerchief or scarf of theirs, or attach a locket with their photo. For grooms, a special photo or memento can be kept close in an inside jacket pocket.

Clothing

If your parent had a favourite outfit or article of clothing, consider incorporating it into your wedding attire. This could be done by wearing a piece of their clothing, such as a jacket or shirt, or by using the fabric to create something new, like a waistcoat, a tie, or a dress. You could also add a special patch to your outfit, made from their clothing, or embroidered with their name or a meaningful phrase.

Fragrance

Scent is strongly linked to memory, so wearing your parent's favourite perfume or aftershave can be a unique way to honour them. It can be a private tribute, as not everyone will know the significance of the fragrance, but it will remind you of them throughout the day.

Embroidery

A beautiful way to keep your parent close is to have something embroidered into your wedding attire. This could be a message, a small picture, or even a copy of their handwriting. It can be added to a veil, the inside of a jacket, a dress, or anywhere else that feels right to you.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to honour your deceased parent on your wedding day. Choose something that feels meaningful and appropriate to you, and don't be afraid to ask your partner, family, or friends for their support and input.

Add a photo charm to your bouquet

Adding a photo charm to your bouquet is a beautiful way to honour a deceased parent on your wedding day. It is a subtle yet powerful reminder of their presence as you walk down the aisle. Here are some tips and ideas to create a meaningful photo charm:

Selecting the Photo

Choose a photo that holds a special memory or meaning. It could be a photo of you and your parent, or a photo that captures their essence. If you have a photo of a memorable moment with your parent, such as a birthday celebration or a family vacation, consider using that. You could also select a photo that showcases their smile or a characteristic that you cherished.

Customising the Charm

There are various ways to customise your photo charm. You can opt for a simple design with the photo encased in a small frame or locket. Alternatively, you could explore more intricate designs, such as a heart-shaped pendant or a charm in the shape of an angel wing. Consider adding personalised details, such as their name, a meaningful date, or a symbolic quote. You could also incorporate their favourite colour or a birthstone associated with the month they were born.

Attaching the Charm

When attaching the photo charm to your bouquet, consider its placement and visibility. You may want it to be visible as you hold the bouquet, or you may prefer it to be tucked slightly among the flowers. Discuss your preferences with your florist, who can help you find the perfect spot for the charm. They can also guide you in choosing a bouquet style and size that complements the charm.

Involving Family Members

Creating the photo charm can be a special collaborative process with your family. Involve your siblings, if you have any, or other close family members in selecting the photo and designing the charm. This can be a therapeutic way to honour your parent together and ensure that the final product holds significance for all of you.

Ordering the Charm

When ordering your photo charm, be sure to plan ahead to allow for sufficient creation and shipping time. Many vendors offer customisation options and can work with you to bring your vision to life. You can also explore DIY options if you prefer a more hands-on approach. Websites like Etsy offer a variety of photo charm options, and you can connect with sellers who specialise in memorial charms.

Adding a photo charm to your bouquet is a heartfelt way to honour your deceased parent. It serves as a reminder that they are with you in spirit, and it can provide comfort and strength on your special day.

Frequently asked questions