One of the most priceless pieces of your wedding is blending all the special people in your life into the celebration. And no matter what your family dynamic might be, there are plenty of wonderful ways to incorporate your nearest and dearest into the big day!

Including a lost loved one into the wedding is at the forefront of many couples’ minds when planning their event. The ceremony is an incredibly meaningful time to honor those that cannot be there or are no longer with you. Pay tribute to them in your program or with a special poem before your vows. Tie in family heirlooms during your ceremony as a beautiful way to celebrate those who have passed. It’s a great opportunity to feel their presence with you during your wedding.

Aside from the classic flower girl and ring bearer jobs, which typically go the smaller children, have bigger kids usher your guests to their seats, hand out programs, or make older girls junior bridesmaids. It’s a great way to make your younger family members feel as included in the day as the rest of your family.

Officiating a wedding isn’t just for the professionals anymore! Plenty of couples are asking close relatives to become ordained online, so you can have an even more personal vow experience. Have a brother, sister, uncle, or cousin with great stage presence? You may have just found your officiant!

Speech, speech, speech! Who doesn’t love a great toast, or roast, as they settle in for dinner and cocktails at the reception? Whether it be a sister, sister-in-law, brother, your parents, this is your chance to sit back and let your loved ones make you laugh, cry, and everything in between!