How to honor a living relative who can't make it

You could save him a place at a table where he would've been seated, maybe even add his picture to the seat. Add him into your wedding program with some words to recognize him as not being able to attend.

We attended a wedding where they had a table full of photos of loved ones who couldn't be there. Those who had passed were in black and white, those who were still with us and simply couldn't be there, were in color.

View Quoted Comment That's a great idea!!

I would assume the point is for him to feel happily included. Which means if he is pretty aware of who family members are at this point, brightening up and being happy when you visit even if not really coherent talking, then after the wedding itself it would be nice to visit him. Bring gown and suit, and dress as bride and groom. Arrange to bring in a small decorated layer cake, invite your parents or a couple or aunts and uncles ( his children) and with the help of the facility have a 1-2 hour family party. Bring him a little happiness.

Depending on how he's doing, this may or may not make sense, but if he still knows who you are (or at least if he recognizes your parents) maybe you could Zoom/Skype him in for part of it. I helped my grandfather FaceTime with my Dad and brothers when he had Alzheimer's and while he definitely didn't fully understand what was going on, (he was amazed that the computer-which was actually an iPad-was so small) he kind of interacted with them through it and he definitely seemed happy afterward.

I always love the empty chair with their name on it idea. Or some pictures of them. And also hopefully they can tune in virtually!

I also think another thing you could do is during a thank you speech to everyone for coming you could just be like "shout out to my grandpa who couldn't make it today, etc"

My grandmother is in a nursing home as well and she cannot make it. We are doing a skype session of the wedding for her and for an aunt who cannot make it. It gives the 2 of them a chance to see the ceremony. It also gives the family a chance to see the 2 of them as well and interact with them. At the reception we will have 2 seats dedicated to them with their pictures.

Thank you all! These are really good ideas and something to think about.