Groomsman who has passed

I don't think it's tacky. I say whatever way you guys choose to honor him would be best.

My FHs dad has passed, most of my grandparents have passed, one of my best friends has passed, etc. I’m thinking of having a table at the reception with their pictures and a sweet little sign explaining that while theyve passed, they are still in our hearts and part of who we are and where we are today. Just to honor the loved ones who couldn’t be there. I’ve seen it before and really liked it.

I think that sounds like an absolutely beautiful way to include and honor your friend.

Iam so sorry for his loss. Losses like that are particularly poignant at times like a wedding. I think a gentler way to honor him would be to include subtle remembrances. Your fh could incorporate something about him into his boutonniere, pocket square, or socks (favorite sports team, guitar pick, super hero, car, other hobby). If you are having programs have a line or two of remembrance. Did he have a favorite drink? Offer a toast with it.

Weddings are happy occasions and while remembering those we have lost and wish were there is understandable, it's important to not turn them into memorial services. If guests aren't anticipating remembrances, a bold one could stir up unwanted grief on a happy day. My daughter chose to put one of her grandfather's lab coats in the pew. She told her grandmother in advance and grandma saw it before the ceremony, it still made her cry during the ceremony.

My sister has a son who passed away and anytime they do family pictures they bring a large framed picture of him and they work it in. They’re pictures are always so sweet and it’s such a sweet thing to have him still be a part of them. So I like your idea!

Will any family members of this friend be at your wedding? If so, ask them if they would be ok with that. What is sentimental to you may be hurtful to them. If there are no family members present, then use your best judgement. You have over a year to think about this.

Definitely consult with FH first, and if he's ok with it, go for it! I don't think this is tacky at all. FH and I are doing something similar to honor his dad and my grandma - who both passed away in 2017. They will have a seat in the front row with their pictures to honor their memory.

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We are planning to do this too! Putting framed pictures of them on the chairs they would have sat in.

But thank you to PPs who have suggested to ask other people how they'd feel about it. I wouldn't want to hurt or upset anyone so I will definitely ask those that would be affected before I do anything.

What about a pocket watch with the friend's picture in it? FH can keep his friend close to him, yet be subtle. Or a bouquet picture charm attached to his boutonniere?

What would FH like to see done?

We have the same situation. We're honoring him by playing one of his favorite songs at the reception