🕯️ How to Honour a Loved One Who’s Passed at Your Wedding

Weddings are a celebration of love, unity, and new beginnings — but they can also stir up deep emotions, especially when someone dear isn’t there to share the moment. Whether it’s a parent, grandparent, sibling, or close friend, the absence of a loved one can feel especially poignant on such a meaningful day.

Honouring their memory doesn’t have to be grand or public. Sometimes, the smallest gestures carry the most weight. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 heartfelt ways to include someone who’s passed in your wedding day, from symbolic touches to quiet tributes — each one designed to bring comfort, connection, and love.

🌸 1. Reserve an Empty Chair

One of the simplest yet most powerful tributes is to reserve a seat for your loved one. You can place a framed photo, a single flower, or a small sign that reads “Forever in our hearts.” This gesture creates space for their memory and acknowledges their presence in spirit.

Tip: Choose a chair near the front or in a meaningful spot, like beside a parent or sibling.

🖼️ 2. Create a Memory Table or Altar

Set up a dedicated space at your ceremony or reception with photos, candles, keepsakes, or even a guestbook where guests can share memories. This becomes a quiet sanctuary for reflection and remembrance.

Ideas: Include items like their favourite book, a handwritten letter, or a framed quote they loved.

🕯️ 3. Light a Candle in Their Honour

A candle lighting ceremony can be woven into your vows, reception, or even a private moment before the festivities begin. It’s a symbolic way to acknowledge their light and legacy.

Consider using a personalised candle with their name or a meaningful date.

📖 4. Mention Them in Your Programme or Speech

A simple line in your printed program — “In loving memory of…” — can speak volumes. You might also include a tribute in your vows or ask someone to share a few words during the reception.

This is especially meaningful if the person played a key role in your life or relationship.

💍 5. Wear or Carry Something of Theirs

Incorporate a keepsake into your outfit — a locket, handkerchief, piece of jewellery, or even a small photo tucked into your bouquet. These intimate touches keep them close throughout the day.

One bride I worked with wore her grandmother’s brooch on her sash — it became a conversation piece and a source of comfort.

🎶 6. Include Their Favourite Song or Reading

Play a song they loved during the ceremony or reception, or include a reading that reflects their spirit. Whether it’s a poem, scripture, or quote, it can be a beautiful way to share their voice.

Bonus: Add a note in your programme explaining the significance of the song or reading.

💌 7. Make a Donation in Their Name

Instead of traditional wedding favours, consider donating to a cause your loved one cared about. You can include a small card at each place setting explaining the gesture.

Example: “In honour of [Name], we’ve made a donation to [Charity].”

🕊️ 8. Butterfly or Dove Release

Symbolic releases are often used to mark transitions, blessings, or remembrance. A butterfly or dove release can be a serene and moving tribute, especially in outdoor ceremonies.

Coordinate with local vendors who specialise in ethical and safe release practices.

🥂 9. Offer a Personal Toast or Moment of Silence

During the reception, take a moment to raise a glass or pause in silence. It doesn’t have to be long — just heartfelt. This can be done privately with close family or publicly with all guests.

Tip: Let your MC or officiant know in advance so they can guide the moment smoothly.

🌺 10. Incorporate Their Favourite Flower or Colour

Use their favourite bloom or colour in your bouquet, decor, or even your attire. It’s a subtle yet meaningful way to weave their essence into your celebration.

One couple I worked with chose lavender for its calming scent and connection to their grandmother’s garden.

💬 Final Thoughts

There’s no right or wrong way to honour someone you’ve lost — only what feels true to your heart. For some, a quiet candle or a favourite song brings comfort; for others, simply carrying their memory privately is enough. Whether you choose a visible tribute or none at all, your wedding can still be a celebration of all the love that’s shaped your life, past, present, and everything still to come.

If you’re planning a tribute, I’d love to hear how you’re honouring someone special. Share your ideas in the comments — your story might inspire someone else navigating the same journey.

👰 Planning a wedding? Stay calm and read on! 🎉

With over a decade in the wedding industry, I’ve seen it all—from joyful "I dos" to last-minute dress disasters. That’s why I wrote The Calm Bride’s Blueprint—a no-nonsense guide to planning your perfect day without the stress. Packed with practical advice, sanity-saving tips, and real talk, this book is your secret weapon for staying organised, confident, and, most importantly, calm.

Because weddings should be about love, not logistics. 💍 Grab your copy now and plan your day your way!

📖 Get it here!

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I genuinely believe will benefit my readers. Your support helps me continue creating valuable wedding planning content. Thank you!