The father of the bride has always played a pivotal role in wedding traditions, from the emotional walk down the aisle to the memorable father-daughter dance. As you prepare for your special day, there are countless ways to show your love and appreciation for your father. Here are seven thoughtful gifts and gestures to honour the father of the bride, ensuring he feels celebrated and cherished.
Personalized Cufflinks: A timeless and elegant gift, personalized cufflinks can feature his initials, the wedding date, or even a meaningful symbol. Each time he fastens them, he’ll be reminded of this special day and his cherished role in it.
Custom Handkerchief: A custom-embroidered handkerchief is both a practical and sentimental gift. You can include a heartfelt message, your wedding date, or a simple “Dad” to show him how much he means to you, especially during those emotional moments.
Engraved Watch: A classic timepiece engraved with a special message or the wedding date is a gift he can treasure forever. This gesture symbolizes the precious time you’ve spent together and the new memories you’re creating on your wedding day.
Framed Photo or Keepsake: Presenting your father with a beautifully framed photo of the two of you, or a keepsake box filled with mementos from your shared past, is a touching way to honour your bond. This can be a wedding day photo or a special memory from your childhood.
Father-Daughter Dance Surprise: Surprise your dad with a song that holds deep meaning for both of you. Whether it’s a song from your childhood or one that reflects your relationship, this dance will be a moment he’ll treasure forever.
Monogrammed Tie or Pocket Square: A monogrammed tie or pocket square adds a personal touch to his wedding day attire. Not only will he look sharp, but he’ll also carry a piece of your love with him throughout the day.
A Toast in His Honor: Raise a glass to the man who has been by your side since day one. Whether you or someone else delivers the toast, take a moment to share a few words about what your father means to you and how grateful you are for his love and support.
The beautiful Tiana shared about her Dad on her wedding day!!! “On Tiana’s wedding day, her dad drove her to the ceremony venue in his Stingray Corvette. During the ride to Nyermilang Park, he shared touching memories of driving her mum around East Gippsland (Heyfield/Maffra) in the same car. Tiana found it incredibly touching that he was thinking of her mum as they approached the ceremony. Once they arrived, her dad proudly walked her down the aisle.”
Beautiful Mikayla and her Dad on her wedding day!!!
Alana shared with us “On my wedding day, I honored my dad in a very traditional way. The night before, I gave him a heartfelt handwritten letter and a small gift. On our wedding day, we shared a special first look at home before riding together to the venue in the same wedding car my parents used years ago. Walking down the aisle with him was a truly beautiful moment I’ll cherish forever and at the reception, we shared a father-daughter dance to the song “When God Made My Father,” which was incredibly moving and special.”
Julia shared about her lovely Dad. “On my wedding day, having my father walk me down the aisle was a dream come true, and it felt incredibly special to share that moment with him. He had poured countless hours into preparing the garden, transforming it into a stunning backdrop for our celebration. It was a once-in-a-lifetime event, with guests exploring the meticulously maintained backyard that Dad had worked on for over a year. His pride was evident as he marvelled at how beautifully everything had turned out, making the day even more unforgettable for both of us.”
—–
Let’s not forget about our Dads that can’t walk us down the aisle, but walk by our sides. Here are seven meaningful ways to honour and remember our Dads even if he’s no longer with us:
Reserved Seat or Tribute: Reserve a seat in the front row with a photo or a small tribute to honour his memory. This gesture acknowledges his presence in spirit and ensures he is still a part of the ceremony.
Memory Table or Display: Create a memory table featuring photographs, keepsakes, and mementos that celebrate his life and his role as a father. This can be a touching focal point at the reception, allowing guests to reflect on cherished memories.
Incorporate His Favorite Song: Whether played during the ceremony or as a special dance at the reception, choosing his favourite song can evoke powerful memories and emotions, honouring the moments you shared together.
Include His Traditions: Incorporate any cultural or familial traditions that he cherished. This could be a specific dance, a ceremonial ritual, or even serving his favourite dish during the reception.
Toast or Speech in His Honor: Consider including a heartfelt toast or speech in his honour. This can be delivered by the bride, a close family member, or a friend who can share fond memories and celebrate his influence on her life.
Wear Something of His: To keep his memory close, the bride can incorporate something of her father’s into her attire. This could be his tie, a piece of jewellery, or even a subtle detail sewn into her dress.
Charitable Donation: Make a charitable donation in his name to a cause that was meaningful to him. This act not only honours his memory but also contributes positively to a cause he supported.
—–
Honouring Fathers, Past and Present
In every wedding, the father of the bride holds a cherished place. Whether he walks beside you on your special day or watches over from afar, his love and guidance leave an indelible mark. Even for those whose fathers have passed away, honouring his memory ensures that his presence is felt in every moment.
For more inspiration on how to make your wedding day unforgettable, be sure to check out our latest blog post!
Hero Imagery // Hannah Gilbert Photographer, Haven Still and Moving Images & Strattan Photography // Words written by Robyn Bull