How to Honor a Deceased Mom in a Wedding Invitation

A mention on the invitation means mother is not forgotten.

When your mother or your fiance's mother is deceased, feelings of sadness and confusion may surface as wedding plans are made. You many wonder how to honor this important woman on such a special day in your life. A tactful and meaningful way to remember either your late mother or your fiance's deceased mother is to include her name on the wedding invitation. Doing so will not only mean a great deal to you, but to everyone receiving the invitation who knew her.

Instructions

1. The spirit of the deceased mother lives on with those who knew her. Including her name or referencing her within the invitation is acceptable and special. Explain to others close to you that this is important to your special day, even if they do not agree.

2. Tell guests who is giving the wedding, without specifically mentioning the mother's name. When the bride, groom and parents are all paying for the wedding, write: "Jane Smith and John Doe, together with their parents, invite you to share in their wedding ceremony." This way, the deceased mother is part of the invitation; however, you do not specifically state that she is deceased.

3. Inform guests that the bride's mother is deceased if you are having a traditional wedding ceremony. When the bride's father is paying for the wedding, write: "The pleasure of your company is requested at the marriage of Mary Jones, daughter of Mr. John Jones and the late Mrs. Jane Jones, to George Jenkins."

4. Honor both the bride's and the groom's deceased mothers. For example: "You are invited to celebrate the wedding of Sarah Smith, the daughter of John Smith and the late Christina Smith, and Mr. Mark Miller, the son of Jim Miller and the late Jane Miller." Both mothers are mentioned in memory only; it is clear that the deceased mothers are not alive to take part in the wedding.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare your father for the invitation wording. Listen to any concerns he may have and explain wedding invitation etiquette to him.

• People may express condolences to you at your wedding, even though your mother has been deceased for many years.

References

• The Knot: Wedding Invitations - Etiquette Q & A
• Martha Stewart Weddings: A Parent Has Passed Away