Weddingbee boards

Hi beehive, I could really use your creativity/experience with a question/problem: I have a neighbor who has been a tremendous friend to me -- almost like a (fairy) godmother -- and I'd like to find a way to recognize her with a role in my wedding party.  I thought about asking her to be a bridesmaid/attendant, but I didn't want to put her in the somewhat awkward position of having to do a bunch of traditional bridesmaidy activities with the friends that are my age (30ish).  I'm left with the idea of asking her to do a reading, but we weren't really thinking of having readings at our ceremony.  Can you help me think of other ways to give her a special role at my wedding?

I don't think you have to give her a "role" per se, I like PPs' ideas of letting her be a guest, giving her a corsage and honouring her in your toast and program (possibly with other people in a 'Special Thanks' section). I would also give her a very nice and personal thank you gift, with a sweet letter. I'm sure she would appreciate that. :)