Wedding without my mom

Wow, I am so sorry for your loss Kathryn. First off, I am not going to pretend to know what it's like to not have your mom by your side. I have heard of brides, though, that honor their mom in different ways in their ceremony. That could be by having a pendant with their photo in their bridal bouquet, a dance dedicated to her, or any number of things. I think it will be a struggle throughout, but you can lean into your fiance and his family hopefully.

It's tough when your parent isn't around, my dad passed and it feels weird going through life without him. Especially big moments like marriage. Try to find a way to make her apart of the ceremony. Courtney provided some good ideas for this. Definitely turn to your good friends, family, partner during this time. They will be your rock.

My mom passed about 4 years ago. I was much older than you, but can understand how you feel. My stepmom is stepping up to help with a lot of stuff a mother would do and while I appreciate her kindness, I do feel a little bit like I’m betraying my mother. I try to remember that my mom would be beyond thrilled for me and would want me to enjoy this time. She wouldn’t want me to feel anxious or sad. Sometimes I even talk to her.
I am also finding ways to include her. I’m having a small memorial table with her picture and will tie this beautiful silver “K” keychain that she used for years on my bouquet (her name was Kelly).
It may not be the best advice, but it does get me through those tough moments. Sending hugs.

I am sorry for your loss. I lost my mom when i was 16 as well( i am 28 now) each loss is different. I agree it is tough not having her here. It makes me feel less excited to not share the experience with her. Take small moments. Don't ignore it and go through the motions cuz its what is expected. Its ok to feel sad, so take extra time to mention her or deal with your feelings.

You aren't betraying her. I am sure she would be thrilled to see you happy and that is what you are doing. Make her presence felt and known if you want to or keep her in your heart whatever you feel most comfortable with. I get emotional and upset easily when it comes to my Mom, so i will do small things. Probably a private moment alone so i can "talk" to her before the ceremony. a bouquet charm. A rose on a chair.

Sending hugs amd prayers.

It's hard I know. I lost my mom when I was 14, and my dad when I was 17. It's hard planning without them. You aren't betraying her at all. Do you have an aunt or other family member you're close to? Maybe a friend's mom who was there for you? An older neighbor or coworker? Someone in your fiancee's family?

My mom passed away last year and I got engaged a few days after 1 year of her passing away. So it was a lot of emotions being involved. It definitely feels weird to not have her around...