Dad, Father, Papa, Daddy Dearest, Big D… Whatever you call him, he is the first man you truly ever loved. He is that guy that fascinated you by pulling silly faces as a bub, he was your hero and the guy who taught you awesome schoolyard material like ‘pull my finger’, he probably embarrassed you with his Dad jokes in your teens and if you are lucky like me, supported you financially and then emotionally through your late teens and early 20s. The next chapter is your wedding day, and this really makes it such an important day in your relationship with him.

A few of my fave father daughter moments can be made even more special and memorable with a little planning and thought. And these few little things are a great way to celebrate the love and respect you have for the big man in your family. So here are some of my suggestions for you Brideys:

 
The First Look | I particularly love this moment. Make sure your photographer captures that sparkle in your dads eye as he sees you in  THAT dress for the first time. There is nothing quite so magical as that glint in your fathers eye that only your presence can produce. Photographers always get the Groom’s first look, however remind them that you want this captured also.

 
The Trip to the Church | Even though you may have been living out of home for years before you get married, the moment you get married symbolizes an important and sometimes tough moment for your father. Make that car trip count. Remind your dad of why you love and respect him, or just spend a moment reflecting on your childhood. Do it your way, just make it special.

Pre Aisle Walk | If you are being given away, Share a laugh or a final thought before you take those first steps towards the aisle. Calm each others nerves, and it will also create a memory for you both, a private moment that just the two of you shared.

The FOB Speech | Your Father traditionally makes a speech at your wedding reception, and for some Dad’s this is a massive moment. If he’s not the best of public speakers, I recommend giving him a bit of a brief.

BRIEF FOR THE FOB’s  – Start by thanking all the guests for coming, acknowledge the grooms parents and welcome his new Son in Law to the family. Then share a few stories about his Daughter (funny and / or heartwarming, whatever suits his style), share stories that represent your bond and about how his little girl has turned into a beautiful young woman. Some tips for the newlyweds is also a lovely touch. I also like to tell them to remember the stories should be funny, not embarrassing to the bride, and also tell your Dad to avoid any pessimistic comments, no matter how funny he seems to think they are!

The Father + Daughter Dance | I love love love this tradition for not only the moment, but the lead up. Like choosing the song – what a great thing to sit down and select with your Dad months before the wedding, something that represents your childhood or life together. On the day, it is also a lovely moment to reflect and breathe and share a Daddy Daughter moment again, now as a Mrs. It is so symbolic, that you share a dance with your husband, but go back to your Dad for a moment. I adore this.

For those of you whose father has passed, honor them on this special day. I am tearing up as I write this as the thought of my Dad not being there rips my heart out, and if this speaks to you I am so so sorry for your loss. There are so many ways in which you can make their presence felt. Whether you walk down the aisle to their favourite song, or save a seat for them at the ceremony, create a special cocktail named after their nickname for you, or toast with a champagne from the year he was born. Think of something special to you and that reflects your love and relationship with him.

Special shout out to the greatest dad in the whole wide wonderful world, it was tough to pick just one song that makes me think of you, from the Wanderers to Cat Stevens, but click above and listen to this beautiful song that will forever make me smile and think of my Dad!

What song reminds you of your Dad? And what special inclusions or moments or memories would you share with your Father at your wedding?