Weddings are a time of joy, love, and new beginnings—but for many, they also stir up a quiet undercurrent of grief. Whether it’s the absence of a parent, the loss of a dear friend, or the ache of wishing someone could witness your “I do,” the emotions tied to grief often go unspoken in the whirlwind of celebration. Yet, acknowledging that loss can make the experience even more profound.
To shed light on this tender topic, we spoke with Brennan Wood, Executive Director of Dougy Center: The National Grief Center for Children & Families and author of A Kids Book About Grief. Having lost her mother before her first wedding and her father before her second, Brennan knows firsthand what navigating grief while planning your wedding feels like. Through her personal story and professional insight, she offers heartfelt guidance for those navigating both love and loss during one of life’s biggest milestones.
