Couples have found unique ways to keep their family and loved ones close on their big day, that aren’t able to attend. Honoring loved ones in your wedding is one of my favorite ways to create a bond and show your love. It’s such an intimate and special way to bring families together, while celebrating the next step in your life. Sometimes those closest to us pass away, or can’t make it to your special day, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be honored. Here are a few ideas for honoring your loved ones on your big day.

Honoring Loved Ones

Throughout my experience as a Jackson Hole elopement photographer, I have seen some incredibly special touches. Some couples choose to showcase various elements of their relationship, their family pets, or a shared hobby. But honoring loved ones, is always one that tugs on my heart strings. I’ve seen family heirlooms and lockets, framed photos, pictures in the bouquet or handkerchief and the loved ones’ favorite items. No matter what you choose, the important thing is to find something unique and special to honor those you love.

Family Heirlooms and Lockets

Most commonly with my brides, I’ve seen family heirlooms and lockets. My brides are able to hold those family members close, whether around their neck, or as a trinket on their bouquet. Not only are you able to carry a picture of that person, but you’ll have them close by. It can also be your something borrowed for your wedding! Whether you decided to showcase the locket as your necklace for your wedding, or create a bouquet decoration, it’s a great way to honor loved ones in an intimate way.

Framed Photos

Next, one of my favorites, as a photographer, is framed photos. Couples often choose to display photos of their loved ones on a designated table specifically for them. It creates a way to honor those loved ones, while inviting their guests to experience it as well. Another couple chose to showcase their loved ones as centerpieces on their tables along with bouquets. It was such a sweet way to bring their loved ones to the event and create a feeling of love and support.

Bouquet Decorations

As previously mentioned, putting trinkets in your bouquet to honor your loved ones is a popular choice. What I love about bouquet decorations is it can become something just for you to have. You don’t have to share it, or showcase for your guests. It’s a way to have your loved ones with you, and share this incredibly important and emotional moment with them. Not only are you able to document it through photography, but you’ll be able to remember that moment for a lifetime.

Honoring Loved Ones with Personalized Handkerchiefs

Lastly, handkerchiefs are another way to honor your loved ones. Honoring your loved ones is such an intimate and special thing that can be done however you feel best. Having a handkerchief with a picture of them, or embroidered phrases or words is so touching. You can use the handkerchief to wipe away any anxious tears, and feel as though those loved ones are with you holding your hand and wiping your tears. It can also become a family heirloom and pass it down between generations.

No matter what you choose, know that your loved ones are there for you, and so proud of you. Whether they’re able to attend or not, honoring loved ones can be a memorable and intimate moments. Enjoy this moment in your life and find a way to bring your loved ones that can’t attend into it.

Ready to meet your Jackson Hole elopement photographer? Let’s chat!