Photo credit: Cara Frew Photography

At Fuze Ceremonies, we know that a wedding day is about far more than just legalities and logistics — it’s about love, connection, and honouring the people who have shaped your story. For many couples planning a humanist wedding ceremony, that includes acknowledging those who are no longer with us or who can’t be present on the day.

One of the many reasons couples choose a Fuze humanist celebrant is because we offer complete flexibility to create a ceremony that reflects your values and relationships — past and present. Whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection or a more visible tribute, your celebrant can help you find a way to honour absent loved ones that feels natural, meaningful, and deeply personal.

Here are just a few ideas we’ve seen work beautifully in Fuze Ceremonies, across Scotland.

1. A Thoughtful Mention in Your Ceremony Script

Our Fuze celebrants are skilled at weaving personal touches into your ceremony script with empathy and care. You might include a short but heartfelt line, such as:

“While they may not be here with us physically today, we hold them close in our hearts as we step into this new chapter.”

A gentle nod like this can be placed near the beginning or woven into your vows. Your humanist celebrant from Fuze will work with you to craft the right tone and timing.

2. A Candle or Memory Table

Many couples working with Fuze Ceremonies set up a small memory table near the ceremony space, with a candle, framed photo, or treasured item. Some keep this subtle and private, while others invite their guests to reflect and share memories. Your celebrant can even refer to the table during the ceremony if that feels appropriate.

3. A Moment of Silence

A short pause to reflect, led by your humanist celebrant, can be incredibly moving. It might follow a favourite reading or piece of music, or be held quietly just before the vows. This stillness allows space for those absent to be present in thought.

4. Wearing or Carrying Something Symbolic

From heirloom jewellery to handkerchiefs tucked into a suit jacket, couples often choose to carry something meaningful with them on the day. One Fuze couple recently had their celebrant reference the bride’s brooch, which had belonged to her gran, saying:

“This small sparkle carries great weight and is a reminder that love never truly leaves us.”

Photo credit below: White Cherry Photography

5. Including Favourite Songs or Readings

A personal reading or piece of music can bring a loved one’s memory to life. Your Fuze celebrant can help you introduce it with care, whether it’s a beloved poem or a tune that always played at family gatherings. These moments become part of your story and offer shared connection with your guests.

6. Mentioning Absent Loved Ones in Your Order of Service

Some couples include a short dedication in their printed or digital ceremony programme. We often see wording like:

“Forever in our hearts, especially today. Remembering those who are no longer with us, but whose love surrounds us always.”

Your humanist wedding celebrant can also coordinate the ceremony flow with this inclusion in mind, ensuring a smooth and cohesive experience.

7. A Toast or Tribute Later in the Day

While your Fuze humanist ceremony is the emotional heart of your day, many couples find it fitting to raise a glass to “absent friends” during the speeches or evening celebrations. These informal tributes create space for smiles, tears, and laughter , all part of the human experience we celebrate of course.

See a feature on this topic in our wedding friends Tie The Knot Scotland’s website HERE

Add our smiles to yours

At Fuze Ceremonies, we believe the ceremony should be the highlight of your wedding, and display warm, personal, and unforgettable moments. Our expert Fuze celebrants have delivered thousands of five‑star ceremonies across Scotland, bringing your story to life with passion, care, and authenticity. So if you’ve heard any of these myths before, now you know the truth. A humanist ceremony with Fuze isn’t just an alternative, it might just be the perfect choice for your wedding day.

No two couples are the same so no two ceremonies should be the same. At Fuze we work alongside our couples to make their humanist wedding ceremony script is unique, personal and bespoke. It’s your day your way with us, so let us add our smiles to yours. Click our logo below to check your date and celebrant availability LIVE 24/7.