5 Ways to Include Your Dad Into Your Wedding Day Festivities
Your wedding day is a celebration of you and your partner but, so many of my couples want to make their parents feel special as well. In honor of Father’s Day, here are a few ways you can include your dad into your wedding day! (For even more ideas, I wrote about ways to incorporate your mom into your wedding day here.)
Photo by: Lynn Bagley Photography
Get Ready Together
Photo by: Palms & Pines Photography
This first tip is geared a little more towards grooms but, please invite your dad to get ready with you! You’ll have all your groomsmen by your side, cheering you on before you embark on this big chapter but I bet your dad would love to see you in this light. What a sweet and easy way to include your dad into your wedding and it will also make for some photo opportunities you can cherish together!
Do A First Look
Photo by: Nicole Chow Photography
I’m a huge fan of incorporating a first look into your photograph list. It’s a special moment with your soon-to-be-spouse, but you don’t have to reserve a first look for just you and your partner. Think of revealing your final look to just your dad before you take formal family portraits. Cue all the tears! It’s a really special moment you can have with your dad!
Wear Something Matching Or An Heirloom
Photo by: Jenny Quicksall
Does your dad still have the cufflinks from his wedding or maybe a vintage watch? Or a handkerchief that you can tuck into your bouquet for happy tears? Wearing a family heirloom passed down from your father, or your father’s-father, gives a unique connection that just you two share and can be your “something borrowed”. If there’s not an heirloom, considering matching a piece of clothing like socks or a ribbon on your bouquet or on your suit to his suit tie.
Leave A Seat Open
Photo by: Anna J Photography
For the fathers that are unfortunately no longer with us, displaying photos and/or setting aside an empty chair for them during the ceremony or reception is a sweet way to have their memory a part of your big day.
Dedicate a special song or toast
Photo by: Anna J Photography
Your parents may already be planning on giving a toast at your wedding, but how special would it be if you took time to thank them back? I love it when couples take a moment to give a “thank you” speech to all their guests, and I think taking time to give special thank your parents is always a great gesture. If your dad isn’t one for speeches, find out what your dad’s favorite song is and play it during your reception as a special dedication to him. It’ll be sure to get him on the dance floor!
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles and other father figures in your life! You’re our heroes and we love you!
If you’re ready to start planning your dream wedding day and ways to thank your dad, click the contact button on my homepage here and let’s set some time to chat!
