
Marriage does not promise a state of euphoria or peace on a daily basis. The libation closely follows the family lineage and is a recitation of a couple ’s links to each family member, living, dead and un born. Like the wine in a communion, liquids used in libation are symbolic of the ancestral spirits. The supplication asks God for good wishes, and the conclusion ends by sending the spirits home and thanking participants and praying that they leave more blessed than when they came. The libation begins with an invocation to invite everyone to participate, followed by an introduction where ancestors, elders and family members may be named. You can talk about their relationship to bride or groom, any advice they gave you, or how you are including them in other ways throughout the ceremony.ĭid you include your lost loved one in your wedding? I'd love to hear your stories in the comments.A libation is a sacred communal ritual, used in traditional African life. Program Mention - Another simple way to include your lost loved one is a paragraph or page in the program. Be sure to mention it in your wedding program so everyone is prepared. Moment of Silence - A simple, yet still profound, tribute is a moment of silence during the ceremony to acknowledge those who are missing. The world can never have too many butterflies. Butterfly Release Company has several different package options. A butterfly release can be a beautiful remembrance tribute (temperatures must be above 65 degrees F). LJG Candles has a large selection of memorial tiles with included stands that can be displayed in your home once your wedding is over. This is a great way to include several missed loved ones at once too.īutterfly Release - Butterflies are said to be a sign from heaven that a loved one is near. A white rose is traditional, but you can choose any flower that you associate with your loved one.Ī Memorial Table - Have a small table placed at the entrance to your ceremony with a photo and/or In Loving Memory sign. It can be mentioned during the ceremony that the flower represents the loved one and their place in the wedding. LJG Candles contain a pocket token or charm in the wax to have as a keepsake when the candle is gone and are perfect for your candle-lighting ceremony.Ī Flower - Place a flower on a seat in the front row. You can also include in your program "A special candle is lit in memory of _". Here are a few special ways to include your deceased loved one in your wedding day.Ī Memorial Candle - The bride and groom can light the candle at the beginning of the ceremony. We even got a tuxedo for our Liam bear to be included in the family pictures. Two years later, my sister and her long-time fiance also got married, and they chose to honor our lost loved ones with a beautiful sign and memorial candle. My cousin and his wife had a touching, heartfelt tribute to my son and I am eternally grateful.

Sadly, we were unable to attend due to the death of my mother-in-law the weekend before (just another tragedy among many in the months after the loss of our son), but the rest of my family was able to attend.

My cousin got married shortly after Liam died.

There are still several ways to include your loved ones in your wedding day. Sometimes, however, there are hints of sadness with the joy, especially when someone we love dearly has passed. Eating, drinking, dancing, and basking in the love of a newlywed couple, you can't help but feel good. A wedding is a time for celebrating with the ones we love.
