Father of the Bride is a poem about one of life’s most emotional milestones, where pride, love, and letting go all meet in a single moment. It captures the quiet weight a father carries as he watches his daughter step into a new chapter, knowing that everything has changed and yet nothing is lost. This poem reflects on the years that lead up to that day, from childhood memories to lessons learned along the way.
Weddings move quickly, but the emotions do not. There is joy in seeing your child happy, gratitude for the journey that brought you there, and a gentle ache that comes with realizing your role is changing. Father of the Bride speaks to that balance with honesty and tenderness. It is not about ceremony or tradition alone, but about the lifelong bond between a father and his daughter.
This poem honors love that grows, relationships that evolve, and the quiet strength it takes to step back while still standing close. It is a reflection on family, trust, and unconditional love.
“Father of the Bride” was written by David Ritter on February 19, 2022, to honor the joyful day when his youngest daughter, Rachel, walked down the aisle and he had the great privilege of escorting her. This heartfelt poem celebrates the love between a father and his daughter, capturing both pride and tender emotion as she begins a new chapter of her life.
Father of the Bride
Today’s my daughter’s wedding day An exciting day it is For I must give away the bride So that she will become his
But once she was my baby girl And the apple of my eye I would hurry to pick her up The first second she would cry
A daddy’s girl right from the start She stole my heart away And when I held her in my arms I’d close my eyes and pray
“Father in heaven, please hear my plea Watch over this child you’ve given me Send Your angels from heaven above With mercy, grace, and the Savior’s love, And may she follow You all her days With a humble heart, this I pray”
She grew up fast just like a weed And it all seems like a blur But I cherished every moment in the times I spent with her
Once she was my baby girl Today she becomes his wife I’m grateful for my son-in-law And glad he came into her life
Forgive me if I’m emotional I may shed a tear and go hide For she’ll always be my baby girl and now she’ll be his bride
Beyond the poem itself, I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who made Rachel’s wedding so special. The outpouring of kindness, understanding, and love toward our family has left me humbled and overflowing with appreciation. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
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