Your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and family. While it’s often the father of the bride who gets the spotlight, I wanted to share some ways to make mum feel special on your wedding day.
One of the most important women in your life – your mum! She’s been there for you through thick and thin, and now is the perfect time to show her just how much she means to you on your special day.
As a wedding photographer, I see countless beautiful moments between brides and their mums, and the joy of these moments is truly irreplaceable. So, if you’re wondering how to make mum feel extra special on your wedding day, here are some thoughtful and meaningful ideas that will create lasting memories for both of you.
1. Personalized Gifts for Mum
A unique, heartfelt gift is a great way to show your appreciation. Consider something that reflects her personality or your relationship. Some thoughtful ideas include:
- A custom piece of jewelry with her initials or a meaningful engraving
- A framed photo of a special moment between the two of you
- A handwritten letter expressing your gratitude and love
Gifting something personal will make mum feel cherished and loved, especially when she sees the effort you’ve put into selecting or creating something different just for her.
2. Have a Special Moment with Mum Before the Ceremony
Wedding days can be hectic, and it’s easy to get swept up in the chaos. But before the ceremony, carve out a few quiet moments with your mum. Whether it’s sharing a cup of tea or simply sitting together and talking, this intimate time can help calm any nerves and strengthen the bond between you.
You could ask your mum if she would rather be the one to help you get into your dress/suit; or if she would prefer a surprise spotlight moment with you.
Be sure to let your photographer know ahead of time if you’d like to do a reveal so they can plan for it!
3. Incorporate Mum into the Ceremony
Many brides and grooms find special ways to involve their mothers in the ceremony itself, not just as spectators. Here are a few ideas:
- Have a special reading or prayer that she can recite or perform
- Include her in the processional, either walking with her or with a mother-daughter duet
- Light a candle together as a symbol of your shared love and family connection
These acts will make mum feel like she’s an integral part of your wedding, reinforcing her important role in your life.
4. Create a Mother-Daughter Dance
While the father-daughter dance is a tradition at many weddings, why not create a special moment for you and your mum too? A mother-daughter dance is a beautiful way to honour your relationship and show appreciation for everything she’s done for you.
Choose a song that’s meaningful to both of you – whether it’s a classic tune or something more modern that captures your bond.
5. Thank Mum in Your Wedding Speech
Your wedding speech is the perfect opportunity to publicly acknowledge your mum’s impact on your life. Take a moment to thank her for her love, support, and guidance throughout the years.
Expressing your gratitude in front of family and friends will make mum feel truly special and appreciated on your big day.
6. Consider Letting Mum Give Her Own Speech
A mother’s speech can be a beautiful way for her to express her love, pride, and joy as she watches her child get married. It’s a heartfelt way for her to reflect on your relationship, share fond memories, and thank guests for being part of the celebration. If your mum feels comfortable doing so, encourage her to give a speech or even say a few words during the reception. Her words will be deeply meaningful to both you and your guests.
A speech from your mum can add a truly emotional and unique touch to the wedding, mum’s can provide an unparalleled perspective on your childhood and it’s a wonderful way to honour her role in your life.
7. Honouring Mum If She’s No Longer With Us
For some nearlyweds, the wedding day may bring bittersweet emotions, as their mum is no longer present to share in the joy of the occasion. If your mum has passed away, it’s essential to honour her memory in a way that feels meaningful to you. Here are a few ideas to keep her close on your special day:
- Wear Something of Her’s: Many brides choose to wear a piece of jewellery, a veil, or another item that belonged to their mum, as a way to keep her close to their heart. This can be a beautiful tribute that lets you feel connected to her throughout the day.
- Have a bouquet charm: A photo of mum on your flowers is a beautiful way to have her walk down the aisle with you and be right by your side all day.
- Include a Tribute in Your Ceremony or Reception: You can light a candle in her memory during the ceremony, dedicate a song to her, or even have a moment of silence to remember her. Some brides choose to include a small framed photo of their mum at the altar or reception, symbolizing her presence.
- Have a Moment of Remembrance with Your Close Family: If you’re comfortable, take a moment before the ceremony or at a quiet point during the day to reflect on your mum’s impact on your life with close family members. You might share a memory or speak about how much she meant to you.
Honor Her in Your Speech: If you’re giving a speech, consider taking a moment to acknowledge your mum and her role in shaping the person you are today. This could be an opportunity to share how much you wish she could be there and how she will always be a part of your life.
Create a Memorial Space: If you’re having a more elaborate reception, consider a small memorial area, like a photo display of your mum or a dedication in the wedding program. This allows guests to share in your remembrance of her and can provide comfort.
8. Plan a Pre-Wedding Pampering Session
Before the wedding day stress begins, treat your mum to a pampering session to help her feel relaxed and ready for the big day. Whether it’s a spa day, a manicure, or a special breakfast together, these little moments of self-care can go a long way in showing her how much you value her presence in your life.
9. Give Her a Role in Your Wedding Planning
Involve your mum in the wedding planning process to make her feel valued and included. Even if she’s not handling all the details, having her help with some aspects can be a wonderful bonding experience. Whether it’s choosing flowers, picking out a dress, or simply being there for moral support, her involvement in the planning can make her feel important and appreciated.
10. Don’t Forget the Thank You Card After the Wedding
Once your wedding day is over, don’t forget to send your mum a heartfelt thank-you card. Take the time to express how much she means to you and how grateful you are for her love and support. A handwritten note can be a keepsake that she’ll treasure forever.
Ways to make mum feel special on your wedding day
Your wedding day is about celebrating love, and that includes honouring the people who have loved and supported you throughout your life – especially your mum. By incorporating these special touches, you can show her just how important she is to you. Whether it’s through thoughtful gifts, a special dance, or a heartfelt speech, making mum feel special on your wedding day will create memories that both of you will cherish forever.
As a wedding photographer, I’ve witnessed countless tender moments between brides and their mums. These moments of love, joy, and gratitude are truly unforgettable and add to the magic of your wedding day. Make sure to celebrate your mum in a way that reflects the deep bond you share – it will make your wedding day all the more meaningful.
