Many prospective brides dream of various aspects of their wedding day for years, sometimes envisioning them their entire lives.
While having their nearest and dearest present for the big day is fulfilling for most of us, every bride and groom strives to add their unique touch to make the occasion truly special.
Rachel Pitman, who tied the knot with her partner in July 2023, had a unique wish for her wedding day: she wanted her 95-year-old grandfather to serve as her flower boy.
While most people are familiar with the concept of flower girls, who typically follow the last bridesmaid or maid of honor down the aisle, scattering petals, herbs, or confetti, the idea of a ‘flower grandad’ is less common.
It’s understandable if the concept of a ‘flower grandad’ hasn’t crossed your mind before. I, too, hadn’t given it much consideration until I came across Rachel Pitman’s Instagram video from her wedding day.
The video has garnered widespread attention for all the right reasons, and the heartwarming story behind it is truly touching.
In the clip, Rachel’s grandpa, Bert Edlin, takes center stage in the wedding procession, proudly leading the way with a basket of petals, which he joyfully scatters as he beams with pride.
In a separate Instagram post, Rachel shared the deeply meaningful reason behind Bert’s presence at her wedding, revealing that the 95-year-old had undergone a challenging surgical procedure in the year leading up to the event. According to Rachel, the chances of Bert recovering from the surgery were slim.
“Doctors told us recovery was slim, and even if he did recover, he wouldn’t be able to walk, talk, or eat again,” Rachel’s post recounted. Despite this grim prognosis, Bert found a way to communicate his determination to be present at his granddaughter’s wedding. During a period when he was unable to speak, he handed Rachel a piece of paper with a note that simply read, “I will make it to your wedding.”
Determined to defy the odds, Bert embarked on months of rigorous physical therapy after his surgery, determined to give himself the best chance of attending his granddaughter’s special day.
“And that he did,” Rachel continued. “In the most special way, WALKING down the aisle as my flower grandad,” she wrote. “He’s the most determined person I know, and I feel so lucky to call him my Grandad.”