My fiance's dad passed away last week and I would really like to do something nice in memory of him at the wedding, does anyone have any ideas? We are not religious at all and are having an outdoor ceremony in a garden gazebo so I don't think a candle would work as it would most likely blow out.

I also would like to say, sorry to hear about your loss, especially during this special time in your lives

I have seen notes in programs as well as roses placed near the couple during the ceremony. I have also seen people have a nice framed photo of their loved one on display as you enter the area. Maybe your FH and FMIL could dance to their old wedding song as their mother/son dance. I would definately check with your FH and your FMIL before you make any final decisions. It is going to be very hard for them. Bet of luck to you and your family in this tough time.

I'm sorry to hear of your loss, and so close to your wedding. The above poster is right that you will want to consult with the family before making any decisions. One suggestion I would offer is a white dove release. Many people include an additional memorial dove to release for the deceased person right before the release of the bride and groom doves. You can find a directory of professional white dove releasers at White Dove Releases Directory For Weddings Memorials Funerals to locate a professional in your area.

There are so many ways to honor a loved one at weddings. Some have placed a rose in the seat that would normally be taken by your loved one. Memorial candles are big, however might be an issue with an outdoor wedding as you stated. If you are having wedding programs, remember your loved one with a nice poem or verse. Have a poem read at the wedding in his honor. Place a small table with his picture on it either near the guest book, or another visible place. A picture and a single long stem rose can look elegant. Maybe you have a picture of your FH and his father you might like to use.
I'm sure you will find a beautiful way to honor your lost loved one...Good luck!

I really like the idea of the dove release... I can't seem to find any in my area though =(

My FH and I plan on having a table at the reception, reserved for all of our loved ones that have passed away. I'm going to get a 5 by 7 stand up frame and inside the frame will say something like "This table is reserved for our loved ones who are no longer with us. Though they are not here with us physically, they are with us in spirit....and forever in our hearts. Please take a moment to remember those who have passed." The frame will be set up in the middle of the table with white votives all around it. And then I'm going to get single white roses, one for every person we know that has passed, and have a tag on each stem with the person's name. The roses will be places all around the table.
Even though you're having an outdoor wedding, you can still have a memory candle. Just get a tall clear glass candle vase ~ that way the wind won't blow the flame out. Maybe you could get a calage frame or make one using a poster board, and have a bunch of pictures with fond memories of his dad. Have the frame set up on an easel with a small table next to it and the candle placed there ~ could also have a small vase of flowers on the table as well.

Hello!

My condolences! I think what you have to do is offer a prayer in the middle of the ceremony or just before the party starts.


You could also make some nice powerpoint slides of the father with a good music in the background, or draft one through Windows Media Player which is very easy to use.


Best wishes to you!



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There is no perfect wedding. We all need something to laugh back at 30 years later.