Sorry this is so late getting out- I've been dealing with computer issues over the past couple of days.....
Ok, so my Dad continually says that he can't wait to get rid of me- my parents have even plan to high-five when my Dad goes to sit down with my mother after he's given me away (they saw it on America's Funniest Home Videos and thought it was hilarious). But I know when the moment comes for him to walk me down the aisle, he's gonna turn into a big softie and I might even get a tear out of him. Because despite his tough exterior, I will always be his little girl- the one he protected and made constantly sure I was happy and comfortable. Which is why i feel that it is important to let your Dad know just how much you care about him on your special day- even if it's as simple as a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
Let's take a walk....
Ok, so this is the obvious one- having your Dad (or father-like figure) walk you down the aisle. I think that this could be made even more special by the bride setting a aside a moment in private before the wedding to ask her father to walk her down the aisle. I feel that this shows that you cared enough to set aside a special time to ask him for the honor. Obviously, if the person who is walking you down the aisle isn't your father you will need to make sure that they know they are the ones you want to have the special honor. In, this case (and if you have this type of relationship), tell them why they are special to you and that you have appreciated the role that they played in your life.
Giving away....
I know most girls now balk at the idea of being given away since the ritual began as women being given away as "property". But I don't care! I want to have a big deal made out of my Dad giving me away- including the pastor saying "who gives this woman to this man?". Before you decide to never read this blog again, let me explain. Yes, this practice may be archaic, but I feel that over the years it has come to mean something different. In my case, my Dad is the one who provided and took care of me both financially and emotionally (as well as my mom). He worked extra hours to make sure I had the best and always had my best interests at heart. I feel that making the "giving away" apart of the ceremony is like a sign of respect- the final blessing that your parents give you of their hopes for success with your new husband and that he will provide for you just like they have (but in the role of a husband, not a parent). This is by no means to say that we are wilting flowers that need a man to do everything for us. Trust me, I'm one of the most independent girls out there. That's how my parents raised me and D knows I can function just fine on my own without him. I choose not to because of the love, joy and support that he brings itno my life. Marriage is a partnership.
*Sorry, I went off on a bandwagon there...*
Dear Sir....
Write a quick letter to give to your Dad/ father figure on the day of the wedding. It can me as simple as writing about a special memory that you have together or a more detailed affair that lets him know how much you love him and appreciate everything he's done for you.
Picture This....
Frame a picture that you like of the two of you together to give him. It's something that he'll always be able to keep and treasure for years to come.
Bottom Line? Do something for your Dad on the day of/day before your wedding (yes, even though you'll be super-swamped w/ last minute details).It'll mean a lot to him that you remembered him on the day that you're going to start your life with a new man (at least in his eyes), your husband.
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