There have been suggested many lovely ideas for what to do in the case of deceased or absent parents, or even several sets of parents. But I only have one father, and he WILL attend my wedding, but he weighs well over 400 pounds due to a joint disease that has rendered him unable to walk long distances, or even stand in one spot for long.
I have a very long, narrow aisle, and he seemed very put-out at the prospect of not walking me. I am fine with going it alone, but I would like to honor my father somehow. I suggested he read a piece, but he is a very emotional man, and as his only child, he expects to be weepy. Is there a substitute for this father/daughter moment in the wedding? Some gesture or interaction during the procession that will acknowledge him?
I briefly thought about having him stand as I reached him and have him walk me the few steps to the altar, but that seems a little too much like "giving away," a tradition I dislike. I want to honor him, not place emphasis on leaving the nest or try to symbolize another man taking his place as my "provider." (Can you tell I find this tradition antiquated and offensive? :p)
Thank you for any advice
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
Aug 5, 2008, 10:15 AM
Post #2 of 2
(163 views)
Re: Disabled FOB alternative to escorting
[In reply to]
Dear Jess_Plum,
I agree with your sentiments on that tradition.
He could escort you while seated in a wheelchair. Someone can push it for him. He could stand once you reach him and offer you a kiss on the check. In fact, both of your parents could stand and kiss you. That way you honor both of them and remove that "giving away" moment. Or, you could just glance at both parents and smile. You could then thank them for being great parents during a short speech during the reception.
Disabled FOB alternative to escorting
