10 ways to honour your dad (or father-in-law) at your wedding

Are you searching for unique ways to show your appreciation for the special men in your life on your wedding day (besides your future husband, of course)? Look no further! We’ve compiled ten heartfelt ideas that you can incorporate into your wedding to honour your father, father-in-law, or even your grandad!

1. Take him shopping (and buy him lunch)

After shopping for that special wedding-day suit or accessory, take Dad out for a long lunch so you can reminisce, reconnect, and swap a little pre-wedding gossip.

2. Father-daughter first look

Cue the happy tears! Dad getting that first glimpse at your bridal look is bound to be one of the most precious memories of the day. Have your photographer on hand to catch the raw emotion.

3. Play to his strengths

Does dad have a special talent, hobby, or skill? Think about how you can incorporate that into your day. It might be a musical instrument (perfect for cocktail hour), crafty DIY skills (hello, custom backdrop), or baking (cake table, sorted).

4. Special delivery

Design a special gift to show your appreciation (engraved cufflinks always go over well). Or deliver a custom floral buttonhole and handwritten note the morning-of.

5. Wedding wheels

What better time for dad (or grandad) to take his precious vintage car for a spin?

6. By your side

If you’re keen to include your father-in-law, why not invite both dads to walk you down the aisle?

7. Ring it on

The role of ring bearer isn’t exclusively reserved for your nephew/best man/dog. Having your father or father-in-law do the honours is a sweet way to include him in the main event.

8. Here in memory

Keep dad close to your heart by including an heirloom or sentimental accessory in your bridal look. It might be a vintage tie pin on your skirt, a monogrammed hankie for your bridal bag, or a photo tucked into your bouquet or displayed at the reception.

9. Pass him the mic

Is dad blessed with the gift of the gab? Ask him to do a reading at your ceremony or act as MC at the reception.

10. First dance

This one’s a classic for good reason. Bonus points for choosing a song with shared special meaning that will forever remind you of this moment.