Sentimental Wedding Ideas: Remembering Loved Ones

One of the most emotional parts of wedding planning is deciding how to honor the people who are no longer with you. It can be incredibly difficult to face such a meaningful day without their presence. Finding a way to include them in your celebration is a beautiful tribute to the love and support that helped shape your story.

We’ve seen some incredibly touching ways couples have remembered loved ones at our Massachusetts wedding venues. If you’re looking for heartfelt inspiration, here are five sentimental ideas to consider:

1. A Table for “The Love That Built Us”

A sweet way to acknowledge loved ones, both living and passed, is to create a special space with framed photos of the people who helped shape your story. Include photos of parents, grandparents, siblings, friends, or even pets. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate both those who are still with you and those who live on in your heart.

 

The Love That Built Us Memory Table With Gold Frames
Nicole Pelissier Photography
Frame showing memorial table meaning at wedding
Briana Ritoli Photography

2. Embroider a Meaningful Message

Incorporating a special quote, prayer, or name into your gown, veil, or suit is a subtle yet powerful way to walk down the aisle with your loved ones right by your side.

Embroidery On Inside Of Wedding Dress For Passed Loved Ones
Andrew & Jaclyn Photography

3. Save Them a Seat

Reserving a seat at your ceremony is a touching tribute. Save a seat for someone you wish could be there by placing a picture frame or a sentimental piece of memorabilia as a beautiful reminder that they’re still part of your big moment. As you look out at your guests, you’ll see your loved one right there with them.

Chair at wedding ceremony reserved for family member who passed away
Mary Morgan Photography
Save a Seat At Your Wedding Ceremony For Lost Loved One Boston Sports Fan
Jill Markley Studio

4. Memorial Charms

Add photo charms of loved ones to your bouquet or suit jacket and carry their memory with you throughout the day. Coordinate with your florist, so they can tie them with ribbon for a secure (and stunning) finishing touch.

 

charms-for-passed-loved-one-attached-to-wedding-bouquet
Once Like a Spark Photography 
Memorial charms on groom's suit jacket
Genevieve Photography
Memorial Charms for Bride's Wedding Bouquet
Jeannette Fuller Photography

5. Symbolic Roses & Candles

Use a single rose to signify each person you’re honoring as decor for your ceremony or in your bouquet. Or, light memorial candles, burning in honor of those forever in your hearts. It is a simple and elegant gesture to showcase those who could not be with you on the wedding day.

Roses Memorial Table for Honoring Passed Loved Ones At Wedding
J Brum Images
Memorial candle at a wedding used for decor and honoring loved ones
26 North Studios

While it can be emotional, finding a way to honor loved ones during your wedding day ensures they’re still part of the celebration, right by your side.

Looking for more sentimental touches? Visit our Pinterest for more wedding memorial ideas and inspiration.

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