What to Do When a Loved One Has Passed Away? Creative Wedding Ideas from a Bride Honoring the Deceased
2017.03.21 published
A Loved One is in Heaven.
A wedding is a place where a couple makes vows to each other, surrounded by their cherished family and friends who come together to celebrate. Many people, including family members, relatives, and many friends, along with bosses and mentors who have supported the couple, gather to honor them.
However, among these important individuals, there may be some who have already passed away and are now in heaven. This could be beloved grandparents, parents, or friends.
How to Address the "Important Person" Who Has Passed Away at a Wedding?
Regardless, even if they are no longer with us, they remain important to the couple! Since this is a gathering meant to invite loved ones, we naturally want the souls of the deceased to be present too. This sentiment is something that anyone who has lost someone dear can probably understand.
However, the real question is how to include those who have passed away in the wedding. Sometimes a photo might just be placed gently in the groom's chest pocket, while other times, a proper seat and offerings may be arranged. Due to the celebratory nature of a wedding, it can be difficult to discuss, and having friends who have also lost loved ones can be rare. Therefore, when faced with such issues during wedding preparations, it can be quite distressing. For this reason, we will introduce some creative ideas from experienced brides who have honored their deceased loved ones in their weddings.*
Idea 1 from an Experienced Bride for Honoring the Deceased
One bride asked her grandmother and grandfather (the latter of whom had passed away) to escort her during the intermission. It was said that the grandmother held a photograph of the grandfather as they exited together.
Having such an escort during the intermission would surely create a touching atmosphere throughout the venue.
Idea 2 from an Experienced Bride for Honoring the Deceased
A bride who set up a seat for her father. Is that the bride pouring beer into the glass?
The seat for her father was adorned with a place card, flowers, and even beer, which surely made her father very happy. He must be joyfully celebrating the marriage of his daughter.
Idea 3 from an Experienced Bride for Honoring the Deceased
This bride lost her mother at the age of 18. When walking down the aisle with her father, he held a photo of her mother.
It seems common to hold a photo of a deceased parent during such moments. Although there was some concern about discussing this at a celebratory event, the fact remains that the departed were important to the couple.
Idea 4 from an Experienced Bride for Honoring the Deceased
This bride even arranged a seat for her beloved dog, who was considered a part of the family. Having grown up together since childhood, they shared a sibling-like bond.
Interestingly, the groom also owned a dog, who sadly passed away around the same time as the bride's dog, Ponta.
It surely appears to be a bond of fate. The groom's dog and the bride's dog must be reunited in heaven, watching the wedding together and joyfully playing around.*
Inviting a Loved One to the Wedding is a Wonderful Gesture!*
A bride who has lost her beloved partner feels sad. While it is unfortunate that they cannot be physically present at the wedding, please don’t rush to cancel or postpone it due to this sadness.
It is a natural part of life that death occurs. Since it is a journey everyone goes through, being in perpetual mourning may cause the departed to feel sorrowful as well.
We have shared stories from experienced brides, but this is just one example. Please consider the relationship with the bride and the timing of the loss when deciding how to incorporate such sentiments into the wedding.
➡ If a Beloved Family Member or Friend is in Heaven: What Kind of Care for the Deceased Should Be Prepared at the Wedding Reception?