Remembering a loved one at weddings

June 01, 2009 Written by:

While some couples are fine with the traditional church wedding ceremony, some are bucking the trend and opting for places such as a beach or a yacht or even a cemetery.

Yes, a cemetery.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, many couples have utilized the grounds at Wisconsin Memorial Park for their nuptials for personal reasons.

Sheryl Jesswein told the news provider that as she descended the steps of the cemetery chapel, she placed her hand on a mausoleum niche which had the name of her late father carved in it.

"It was like he was giving me away," Jesswein said.

It's an interesting way for brides to incorporate the memory of a lost loved one but may be a bit extreme for some people.

Other ways to honor the departed is to incorporate their memory into the wedding reception party decorations. A blown-up picture of a grandparent or parent who has passed away is an elegant way to have that person present in the ceremony.

Couples can also use a small trinket or the favorite color of the relative who has gone. Most people who do this have found it comforting to know the person, while not physically there, was made part of the day.