Including Loved Ones in Your Wedding Ceremony (Even If They Can’t Be There)
Planning a wedding in Western Australia often means navigating time zones, travel logistics, or aching hearts for people who cannot be part of your day. Whether it's due to distance, health, loss, or other circumstances. There are still beautiful, meaningful ways to include your loved ones in your ceremony.
As a celebrant based in Bunbury and working across South West, I see couples get really creative with honouring those who matter most. Here’s how to make them part of your celebration, no matter where they are.
Honouring Loved Ones Who Have Passed Away
This is something couples ask about a lot. You want to acknowledge someone important without making the whole room feel heavy. It’s all about balance and personal style.
Here are a few ideas that feel just right:
Mention them in your ceremony script with a short, heartfelt line
Light a candle before the ceremony begins
Include a favourite flower in your bouquet
Wear or carry something of theirs (a photo locket, a handkerchief, a watch)
Save them a seat with a name tag or photo
You can also include a moment of quiet reflection or invite your guests to take a breath and think of those who are no longer with us. These gentle touches keep them close without overwhelming the joy of the day.
Including Long-Distance Loved Ones
Not everyone can make it to WA for your wedding—especially if they live overseas or interstate. But that does not mean they miss out.
Here’s how to bring them in:
Livestream your ceremony via Zoom, Google Meet, or a professional setup
Pre-record a message for them to play during the reception or ceremony
Ask them to write a message or blessing you can read aloud
Facetime them in for a toast or getting ready moment
Include them in your ceremony program or wedding signage
If I am your celebrant, I am happy to help cue up recordings or give a nod to those watching from afar. It can feel incredibly special.
Quiet Roles for People Who Hate the Spotlight
Not everyone wants to stand up and give a reading—but they still want to contribute.
Consider these low pressure options:
Be a witness (they just need to sign the marriage certificates)
Hand over the rings
Bring up the vow cards or ceremony wine
Play the ceremony music
Help with the wishing well or guest book station
Giving someone a small but meaningful role lets them be part of it all, without a speech or spotlight.
Creative Touches that Speak Volumes
Some couples choose to honour loved ones through:
Personalised rituals like a sand ceremony or memory box
Playing a song that reminds them of someone special
Having a photo table with stories and names
Writing something meaningful in your vows
The goal is to make your ceremony feel connected. Even the smallest nod can carry deep emotional weight—and your guests will feel that too.
You Get to Choose What Matters
There is no rulebook for including loved ones in a wedding. You do not have to follow traditions, and you definitely do not have to do anything that feels too painful or out of place.
Your ceremony should reflect you both. If someone means something to you, there is a way to honour that. Quietly, joyfully, or with a tissue or two. If you want help crafting these moments into your ceremony, I am your girl. This is what I do. Whether you are remembering someone, looping in a long-distance bestie, or finding a sweet role for a family member—there is always a way to include love in your wedding ceremony. 💌 Planning a ceremony with meaning, heart, and humour? Let’s chat.
