How to include deceased best friend during ceremony/reception

We had a moment of silence at the beginning of the ceremony to recognize our deceased loved ones!

View Quoted Comment Ok. I think I can handle that. I think. Lol I'm still very much devastated and heartbroken and I just want to get through everything without breaking during the ceremony or any other part. Plus, her mother will be there and I dont want her to break either, you know?

Maybe you can do it in a more subtle way. You don’t want to make it a solemn event.

View Quoted Comment You're right. I certainly don't want it to be like that.

If her mother will be there, definitely rethink the empty chair idea. Believe me, her mother is quite aware that her daughter is dead and doesn't need such a blatant reminder smacking her in the face every time she looks that direction. I'd also be careful if anyone suggests a memory table at the reception. Seeing a picture of her daughter and knowing how much her daughter is missing might be a bit much for the mother.

Make a charm with your friend's picture and attach it to your bouquet. That way she will still be with you at the altar while you take your vows.

Ok. That was the other thing I was worried about. Her mother.

View Quoted Comment I love the charm suggestion!

My cousin passed away about 4 years ago. Her being 4 months older than me, we went through all of school together and first job together. She was my best friend. She would of been my MOH. So I didn’t chose a MOH, we instead have 7 groomsmen and 6 bridesmaids. The best man will be walking alone with a different color boutonniere, purple flower/rose (her favorite color) as a reminder that that’s her place.

You could do a game or a dance or a song or a tribute to her, like in loving memory of **** we ask that everyone comes to the dance floor, and maybe everyone sings to her favorite song! Just an idea. Something fun and light hearted but still honors her memory. Sorry you’re going through this 💕

View Quoted Comment Ok, that can be arranged. I was trying to figure out how to send the bridal party out before I come in. Did you include her name in the program anywhere?

View Quoted Comment I couldn’t agree more with Going. I think the charm idea is absolutely perfect.

View Quoted Comment One of her favorite songs was 'Angel'. Lol I wonder how I can pull it off without "ugly crying"? Lol pretty sure I will, no matter what. Thank you for your suggestion. I do like that idea.

In my bridal room, I'm surrounding myself with photos of my grandparents, father and my good college friend. I'm also going to honor their memory and influence on my life at the ceremony, along with the important people who have passed on my fh's side.

We are skipping the programs. Yes the bridal party will be walking in pairs before I walk in. I’ve told a few of my cousins what I was planning and for their sugguestions. They liked the idea after saying “aww, i hope i don’t cry”. That is not my intention though, but I just feel right about honoring her in that way. Everyone knows how close we were.

View Quoted Comment The Sarah McLachlan song?? If so I would skip that one, it's a beautiful song wayyy too depressing for a wedding. An upbeat song in honor of her would be much better, or I like the charm on your bouquet idea.

View Quoted Comment This has been an unbearable two years. I still just cant believe that she wont be standing with me. Just walkimg down there and her not being there is tearing me apart. I'm thankful for my FH. He's beyond supportive. I'm sorry for your loss. I understand how tough it is.

View Quoted Comment I appreciate your input. Thank you.

I am sorry you lost your best friend. I would counsel against any memorial type event during the ceremony. Your emotions will already be running on high -- you could break out in tears. No empty chairs - that is too jarring. How about a charm on your bouquet? Please no sad songs about Angels....it will bring everyone down!! Your friend would want everyone to party and have fun. She would not want you sad.

I’m sorry for your loss as well. It is very hard. I have thought about that moment, walking down the aisle and not seeing her there, hoping a don’t start tearing up. But will just focus on my FH. My FH sugguested that him and bridesmaids and grromsmen walk down to her favorite song BUT that would really get to people. At least in my case

View Quoted Comment I already know that I wont be able to handle walking out to her favorite song. I hear it on the radio and lose it. My focus will be on my FH, but whew....Lol thank you for your input. I appreciate it.