Incorporating Family into Your Ceremony

: The Bride and Groom light a candle for a family member no longer with them.

Since today is ‘Family Day’ I decided I would start the week with some ideas for incorporating your family into the wedding ceremony. The notion of family has changed over the years and often we find couples are looking for ways to blend theirs together. This can be something as simple as having them in your wedding party, asking them to do readings or write a speech, or asking for their blessing as you and your partner make decisions.

People are taking it a step further and really wanting to acknowledge step children for example and are having them participate in the lighting of a unity candle, sand ceremonies, exchanging rings (getting one themselves and taking a family vow), and much more! It is a nice gesture if you have children of age who understand what is going on to include them in a way that makes them feel special.

If there is a family member who is no longer with you but you would like to honour their memory without making it feel like a funeral you could include a blurb in the wedding program letting people know you will be lighting an extra candle for your father (like my couple above did), or that you will be carrying your bouquet down the aisle with a locket and photo of you and your mother.

There are lots of things you can do! I would be happy to work with you to find your own special way to honour your family on your wedding day. Call 416.508.3370 or email today to start planning your Muskoka, Niagara, Toronto, Destination, Same-Sex, wedding.

tag : Ceremony, Deceased Relatives, Family, wedding planning

by : Holly

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About the Author

Holly Carney is the Owner & Lead Coordinator of Holly Matrimony Weddings, a Wedding Coordination and Consulting Company based in Toronto, Ontario and specializing in Muskoka Weddings. She is the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada Regional-Representative for Wedding Professionals in the Barrie-Muskoka Region and has been recognized for her 'Commitment to Continuing Education in the Wedding Industry". Featured in Dockside Magazine, iRun Magazine, various other wedding industry blogs and Industry Expert Speaker at the Cottage Life Show, "Holly Matrimony" is your go-to person if you're engaged and planning to marry! Give her a call today to book your date.