How to Honor a Deceased Parent on Wedding Invitations: Wording and Ideas
Losing a parent is never easy, and discussing how to honor them on your wedding day can feel difficult. However, incorporating their memory into your wedding invitation is a meaningful way to keep them close to your heart during this special time. Whether it’s through wording, a memorial line, or a symbolic tribute, honoring a deceased parent on a wedding invitation can be done with care and thoughtfulness. Here are several examples of how to honor a deceased parent on wedding invitations, providing ideas for both formal and casual weddings. For a full guide on wedding invitations wording, visit our blog post here.
1. Mentioning a Deceased Parent in the Invitation Wording (Formal)
When the wedding follows a traditional or formal style, you can include a deceased parent’s name in the wording. This is done while maintaining a respectful tone.
Example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Emily Jane
to
Michael Andrew Johnson
daughter of
the late Mrs. Mary Smith
Saturday, the twenty-fifth of May
two thousand and twenty-four
at five o’clock in the evening
The Grand Ballroom
New York, New York
In this example, the phrase “the late Mrs. Mary Smith” is used to include a deceased parent in wedding invitations. This allows her memory to be honored in a subtle, formal way.
2. Mentioning a Deceased Parent in the Invitation Wording (Casual)
For couples who prefer a more casual tone, there are other ways to honor a deceased parent. You can still include their memory without using formal titles.
Example:
Together with their families,
and in loving memory of her mother,
Emily Jane Smith
and
Michael Andrew Johnson
invite you to celebrate their marriage
on Saturday, May 25, 2024
at 5:00 PM
The Grand Ballroom
New York, New York
This wedding invitation wording with deceased parent balances love and simplicity. It softly acknowledges the mother’s memory without the need for formal language.
3. Including a Memorial Line on the Invitation
Some couples prefer to place a memorial line at the bottom or back of the invitation. This is a subtle way to honor a deceased parent without altering the main text.
Example for the Bottom of the Invitation:
In loving memory of
Mrs. Mary Smith
Example for the Back of the Invitation:
Forever in our hearts,
Mary Smith
and
Robert Johnson
These small memorial lines are simple but heartfelt. They allow you to include memorial wording for wedding invitations while keeping the focus on the couple.
4. Using the Phrase “Blessed From Above”
For a more spiritual or uplifting tribute, couples can use a phrase like “Blessed From Above” at the end of the invitation. This recognizes the deceased parent’s presence in a heartfelt and symbolic way.
Example:
Mr. and Mrs. John Smith
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of their daughter
Emily Jane
to
Michael Andrew Johnson
on Saturday, the twenty-fifth of May
two thousand and twenty-four
at five o’clock in the evening
The Grand Ballroom
New York, New YorkBlessed from above by the memory of Mary Smith
This type of memorial wording for wedding invitations adds a gentle and spiritual touch without taking away from the celebration.
5. Adding a Memorial Quote or Poem
Another option is to add a meaningful quote or poem in honor of a deceased parent. You can place this text on a separate card, on the back of the invitation, or within the main invitation wording.
Example Quote:
“Those we love don’t go away,
they walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
still loved, still missed, and very dear.”
In loving memory of Mary Smith.
This memorial wording for wedding invitations allows you to personalize your tribute with a poem or saying that holds special meaning.
6. Creating a Separate Memorial Card
For couples who want to dedicate more space to honoring their deceased parent, you can create a separate memorial card. This can be included in the invitation suite and serve as a more detailed acknowledgment.
Example Memorial Card:
In Loving Memory
We remember with love
those who are no longer with us,
especially Mary Smith,
who will always hold a special place in our hearts.
By including a separate memorial card, you can focus on the tribute without altering the main invitation wording. This is a great option for those who want to include a deceased parent in wedding invitations more prominently.
Including memorial wording for wedding invitations is a special way to honor the memory of a deceased parent. Whether you opt for a simple memorial line, a spiritual phrase like “Blessed From Above”, or a separate card, you can find a way to make their presence felt during your big day. Your wedding is a celebration of love, and by incorporating their memory, you ensure that your loved ones are with you in spirit.
