Your wedding day is a great opportunity to give recognition to those who gave you unconditional love and support along your journey, from your first steps as a toddler to your ceremony. On the day you say “I do,” consider these ways to honor your dad at your Wedding. These tips from our friends at brides.com will create special moments for your father, stepfather or father figure. Aside from having them walk you down the aisle. You wouldn’t be who you are today without them.
A Special Dance
Most weddings have the traditional father-daughter dance but you can take it a step further. If dad is not much of a dancer you can possibly spend some quality time together by attending dance lessons prior to the special dance. Either to learn to dance a little better or maybe even surprise everyone with a choreographed routine. Or you can surprise him with a sentimental song you both have a connection to.
A Daddy-Daughter First Look
First looks with your soon-to-be spouses have become a popular way to share a special moment together privately prior to walking down the aisle. So why not consider having a separate first look with your dad? He’ll probably be nervous pacing the halls waiting to see his little girl all dolled up for her big day anyway. By setting aside a few minutes for a pre ceremony moment with him you’ll not only create a memory that will last a lifetime, but it’s also a great photo op!
An Unexpected Shout-Out
Many times fathers of the bride will read a speech at the rehearsal dinner or a welcome speech at the wedding itself sharing memories and words of wisdom to his little girl. You can change it up a bit by instead giving him a special shout-out. You and your fiancé may want to take a moment to thank all of your parents, or anyone who made your special day possible and memorable just a minute or two of time to verbalize your love and appreciation could mean the world to him and the other parents.
A Photo Surprise
This may take just a little bit of planning, but it’s a fun and creative way to make dad feel special after the wedding. Coordinating with your photographer, create a sign or prop that says something sentimental like “I’ll always be your little girl”, “I loved you first”, or even something short like ”Thanks, Dad!” You can possibly pose with your dad and while he is not looking you can hold the sign up. Like this when your photos come in he is given the sweetest surprise picture he will cherish forever.
Ask Dad to Officiate
What an honor to be asked to officiate your daughters wedding. It may take some preparation to become qualified but you can get ordained in a few minutes online. He would probably consider it the ultimate compliment to be asked to be the person who makes your marriage real. Dad will have the opportunity to share loving words and special moments with your guests while making your union official. You can work with dad to create the a special & personal ceremony. You will give him the honor to be a very special part of your wedding day.
Something Borrowed from Dad
Typically brides will borrow an item from their mom or a past bride to count as their something borrowed. But what father wouldn’t feel special if, you asked him to help out. Maybe you’d like to borrow one of dad’s handkerchiefs, or sew a cut-out heart from one of his old dress shirts into the lining of your dress. Or you can add a borrowed cufflink into the wrapped stem of your bridal bouquet. Think outside of the box, and there’s plenty of cute ways to incorporate your dad into the tradition.
