Ways to Show Dad Love on Your Wedding Day

Browse plenty of thoughtful ways to honor dad on your big day.

Beyond coughing up the cash for the wedding bill (and thus having lots of say in the planning), dads traditionally have had a handful of duties on the wedding day itself. Although some duties have evolved to suit modern times (dads of the bride, you’re officially off the hook for footing the entire wedding bill), it’s still meaningful to involve your dad in some capacity on your wedding day.

If you want to do something special to pay tribute to Dad, take a peek at our favorite ways to show fathers some love on your wedding day. We’ve got plenty of ideas for the traditional and non-traditional couple alike, and you’ll also get a chance to hear from real Blueprint brides about their special plans for their dads.

Take A (First) Look!

Get your photographer and handkerchiefs ready to capture dad’s first look at their child before they tie the knot. First looks don’t have to be reserved only for the bride — this is an incredibly special and intimate gesture that the bride or groom can request.

There’s something really moving about a father’s happy tears, and you’ll be so glad to look back on the precious memories. Make sure to come prepared for a quick face touch up in case of a mascara run!

Hitch A Ride With Pops To The Ceremony

It doesn’t matter if you’re renting a limo, or hopping on the back of a scooter — having your dad ride along with you to the wedding ceremony is part of him giving you away. Share the precious moments before the wedding with dad to help calm your jitters before he sends you off. There’s nothing like the comfort of a parent before a monumental life moment. We have no doubt that dad will be honored to be your rock.

Make It Personal

Gifts are so much more meaningful when they have a personal touch. Over the years, you and your father have created countless memories that have shaped your relationship. Why not use some of those to personalize your gift to him?

Get a lyric or passage embroidered onto a handkerchief, or consider a personalized picture frame or picture book from Artifact Uprising. If your dad likes tech, an Apple Watch with a custom strap is sure to woo him. Go the extra mile and load it up with his favorite music and pictures of the two of you together. You’ll be sure to get the tears flowing.

Processional Professional

We believe some traditions are worth keeping, and involving dad in the wedding processional is one we will love forever. If you’re a bride, have him walk you down the aisle and give you away. Are you okay with tweaking tradition? Have the groom’s mother and father walk him down the aisle before the bride is escorted.

Read a passage, lyric, or something you personally wrote to him during the ceremony. Or have your dad read something aloud. Blueprint user Kristen from St. Louis plans to have her father give a speech, and goes the extra mile to make sure he feels included in the wedding planning. “We meet with him monthly over breakfast to give him updates and ensure he feels involved.” Every meeting is better over breakfast.

Because You Love Dad Sew Much

Just like we suggested for honoring mom, sewing a custom patch or a piece of fabric that reminds you of your dad into the inside of your dress or tux is a great for honoring dad, too. Sew it inside of your gown neckline or inside the left side of your coat so it’s near to your heart. Get dad involved when picking something meaningful, and take lots of pictures of the finished product and, of course, of his reaction.

But wait, there’s more! See our final two ideas for honoring dad on our original post on Blueprint Guides.

Originally published at www.blueprintregistry.com on June 13, 2018.