honor parents at a wedding

Non-traditional ways to honor parents at a wedding

To honor parents at a wedding is a nice way to tell them thank you for everything they’ve done for you. There are certain ways, such as father-daughter and mother-son dances, ceremony readings, father giving away the bride, etc. Nowadays, these ideas have become traditional ways to honor parents at a wedding. If you want to make it even more special, read this post to learn awesome ideas that my couples incorporated into their special day.

Deliver a sentimental gift on the day of the wedding

It will be a nice surprise for your mom and dad to receive something special on your wedding day. Have it delivered to them or give it to them personally. It can be flowers or a sentimental gift, anything to make them feel appreciated.

honor parents at a wedding
Photo Credit: Images by Edi

Give them your First Dance

Let a DJ know that you want to give the First Dance to your parents. It will be a beautiful idea for you two to join them on the dance floor in the middle of the song. It will bring them good memories and might even make them emotional, seeing their child dancing right next to them.

Dedicate your bouquet to your mother

Instead of doing a bouquet toss, dedicate your bouquet to your mom. One of my brides gave a speech at her wedding thanking her parents. She said how much she loved them and dedicated her bouquet to her mother. Everyone was in tears!

honor parents at a wedding

Prepare a slideshow

Here is an idea to do something special for your dad. Prepare a slideshow with pictures of you and him and play it during the father/daughter dance. Put together pictures from your childhood and your teenage years. I guarantee your father will be surprised and moved. It will make him feel very special.

honor parents at a wedding
Photo Credit: Erin Evangeline Photography

Give a special thank you speech

Finish your reception with a special thank you speech. Prepare stories when parents supported you, played an important role, or helped you in any other way. Walk them through your memory lane and have them see how much you appreciate everything they’ve done through your eyes. They might have no idea that a small talk they had with you in high school gave you a huge jump start to become the person you are today.

honor parents at a wedding
Photo Credit: Taylored Photo Memories

Let me know in the comments below if you have any other ideas on how to honor parents at a wedding. I’d love to hear personal stories that made your parents feel special. If your ideas are unique, I’ll be happy to write a post about them!

Photo Credit: Joa Photography

Don’t forget to read our post A Checklist before the Wedding Checklist to make sure you cover all the important things when planning your wedding.