No "Mother of the Bride"-What do I do?!

I'm not in the situation, but I think giving them a guest of honor title..maybe a corsage if you plan to use them. If you and you FH plan to give a speech thanking everyone maybe a special mention of them?

I would do as FMM suggested, give the a corsage. Maybe they can do a reading? Sorry about your mom.

My mom passed away when I was young, also. I'm close to my best friend's mom. She helped me picked out my dress and the bridesmaids' dresses, among other things. She also is going to help out with, and might be hosting my bridal shower. I'm giving her a flower pin to wear on wedding day and having her walk down the aisle probably after my dad & stepmom, and FMIL. I'll also buy her a little gift and give it to her at rehearsal dinner. My FSIL is going to do a ceremony reading, but I think it is a great idea to have your aunt and/or best friend's mom do it.

PS - PM if you would like to talk. It is so hard at times during this planning process, so I can relate.

I like FMM's idea.

I agree with Melissa, have them do a reading and be part of the ceremony

I am in the similar situation but with no step mom. My aunt/god mother has really made an effort to help plan (even if I didn't always want it). We aren't super close so I think I will get her a corsage. It let's her know I am appreciate of her time without going over the top.

My mom also passed away about two years ago. There have been days (like picking a venue, dress shopping, etc) where I just break down because I never imagined having to do it without my mom. My stepmom is to me as your best friend's mom and aunt have been to you. I think the corsage and "Guest of Honor" is a great way to showcase them without making you realize like your mom is absent. Like for me, I can't put a rose on an empty chair because it will acknowledge the fact that my mom isn't there. I think your idea prevents that feeling.

So many couples have "Modern families" of all types and making a short tribute to the important family members who've meant a lot to you during the ceremony is a nice thing to do. A poem or even giving important family members small gifts as tokens of your affection will mean a lot to them. Some words about the important lessons you've learned from family members as you take this next important step in your life would not go amiss.

My Aunt, who is my second mother since mine passed, has been helping me with everything. I'm surprising her with a corsage. Her anniversary is also a few days before my wedding, so I'm having the DJ announce it and play a song for them..

Everyone's feedback has been so helpful! Thank you for posting to those who can relate to our position. Weddings bring up so many emotions in general and to not have your mom there adds to that.

I was definitely thinking of doing the corsage thing and mentioning them in the program. A gift at the rehearsal dinner is a great idea so I think I will do that as well. Once we have a better idea of what the ceremony is going to be I will see if either are willing to do a reading.

Thanks again everyone!