If you are planning to get married, you may be faced with finding someone other than your father to give you away. If your dad has passed away or if you are estranged, a loving stepfather or a brother may be able to fill the role.
If you and your dad are estranged, you might want to consider repairing the relationship so he can be a part of your wedding and perhaps once again be a part of your life. This is a difficult choice to make, and one that should be weighed carefully, depending on the reason for the estrangement. If the issue is something that can be worked out, try to find a way to work through it. Your father will be hurt that he was not able to give you away, and it may keep the relationship from ever being restored. Please give it careful consideration.
If you cannot work it out, or don’t know how to contact your father, or he has passed away, consider your other choices. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a relative that gives you away. Today’s weddings are often less formal or traditional than they once were, and you can do things very differently. You can make your wedding exactly what you want it to be, choosing not only how to do things, but who should do them. A lifelong male friend may be your first choice instead of a relative (or because you don’t want to have to choose between relatives).
The person who gives you away doesn’t even have to be male. It can be your mom, sister, grandma, aunt, cousin, or closest female friend. The person that gives you away should be someone that loves you and is a person that protects your best interests, someone who will “give you” to your beloved with your happiness first in mind.