How to honour passed loved ones

🌸 Honouring Loved Ones Who Have Passed on Your Wedding Day

Weddings are filled with joy, love, and new beginnings — but they can also stir up a deep longing for the people we wish could be there to share the moment with us.

At Lightning Hill Estate, we often work with couples who want to find meaningful, gentle ways to acknowledge loved ones who have passed. Whether it's a parent, grandparent, sibling, or dear friend, honouring their presence in spirit can bring incredible comfort and connection on the day.

Here are some thoughtful ways to celebrate and remember those no longer with us:

🕯 A Quiet Moment of Acknowledgement

You don’t need a grand gesture — even a simple sentence during the ceremony, such as:

“While not physically present, we know they are here in spirit, watching over us with love.”

This can be incredibly moving and grounding for both you and your guests.

📷 A Photo Table or Memory Nook

Set up a small table with framed photos, candles, and personal keepsakes — maybe even a handwritten note or favourite quote from your loved one. Guests can stop by and reflect, offering a moment of pause and remembrance amidst the celebrations.

At LHE, we’re happy to help style this space to feel cohesive and gentle — nestled into a garden corner, or quietly placed near the guestbook or welcome sign.

🌹 A Reserved Seat in Their Honour

Leaving a seat empty at the ceremony, often with a small sign or flower, is a subtle yet powerful tribute. It visually honours their place in your life and ensures they are symbolically part of this milestone.

🎵 A Song or Reading

Include a favourite song, reading, or poem that reminds you of your loved one. It could be woven into the ceremony or quietly played during a significant moment — like walking down the aisle or signing the register.

💌 Personal Touches in the Details

• Add a charm with their photo to your bouquet or buttonhole.

• Use their handwriting or a quote from an old letter in your stationery.

• Incorporate their favourite flower into the floral design.

• Light a candle for them during your ceremony.

💬 Speak Their Name

Some couples write a short tribute in their order of service or have their celebrant share a few words. Hearing their name aloud — acknowledged and celebrated — is often incredibly healing.

“We remember with love Mary’s mum, Joanne, whose spirit surrounds us today. We know she would have been the first one on the dance floor.”

💖 Honour Them in Joy, Not Just in Grief

Most importantly, remember that your loved ones would want you to feel joy on your wedding day. Honouring them doesn’t have to be solemn — it can be warm, funny, sweet, and light. It’s okay to laugh while remembering. That’s love, too.

Whether you choose a quiet nod or something more symbolic, what matters most is that it feels right for you.

At Lightning Hill Estate, we’re here to help you craft a day that holds every piece of your heart — including the ones no longer with us.

If you’d like help weaving a tribute into your ceremony or styling a memory space, just reach out. It’s our privilege to support you through it.