Celebrating and Remembering Loved Ones at Your Wedding

There’s no right or wrong way to do this. Some couples prefer a quiet, personal tribute, while others love the idea of sharing a moment with everyone. Here are some ideas for you to think about:

During the Ceremony

If you’d like to say something about a loved one, it doesn’t have to feel heavy or formal. A simple, warm mention can be just as powerful:

• In the opening words of your ceremony, I can mention your loved one and how much they would have liked to have been there.
• If your loved one knew your partner, you could think about adding a few words into your vows about what your person thought of your partner and your relationship.
• We can weave them into your story together - perhaps about the love they passed on to you.
• If you’re having a handfasting, you could use fabric that belonged to them or colours that remind you of them.

A Quiet Personal Tribute

If you’d rather keep things private, there are lovely ways to carry their memory with you throughout the day:

• A small locket or photo tucked inside your suit, dress, or bouquet.
• A piece of their clothing sewn into your outfit—a pocket square, a section of fabric inside a jacket, or lace from a loved one’s wedding dress.
• You could think about wearing something they gave you, like jewellery, cufflinks or their watch

A Dedicated Space

Some couples like to set up a small area at their wedding where guests can take a moment to reflect and remember. This could be:

• A small table with framed photos, candles, or a keepsake that reminds you of them.
• A chair within the ceremony space or reception with something meaningful placed on it—perhaps a hat or scarf, or their favourite flower.

A Toast!

Weddings bring people together, and sometimes the best way to honour someone is with warmth, laughter and a glass in the air. During the reception, you might:

• Toast to them with their favourite drink.
• Share a funny story or a piece of wisdom they passed down.
• Dedicate a particular song or dance in their memory—maybe even one they would have insisted on being played!

Making It Your Own

The best way to honour someone is in a way that feels right for you. There’s no need for it to be a big moment—sometimes the simplest gestures carry the most meaning.

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Hi! I'm Kate Rostance. I'm a celebrant based in North Wales, and I travel all over. If you’d like help finding a way to acknowledge someone special in your ceremony, I’d love to explore ideas with you. Get in touch, or book an intro call.