Etiquette 101: What are the roles of the Bride and Groom’s family members?
He got down on one knee, popped the question and you said yes! Not only did you say yes to him, you said yes to his family and him to yours. When it comes to planning a wedding the roles can get a bit tricky when it comes to family and what each person is responsible for. Below, is a list of some key family members and the roles they should play throughout your wedding! (You’re Welcome)
Mother of the Bride
The mother of the bride helps her daughter with things like visiting different venues and vendors, helping her find the perfect gown and keeping up with the guest list. She usually chooses what she will be wearing before the grooms mother and heads the receiving line at the reception. She also plays a big role in the bridal shower and rehearsal dinner, making sure everything is running smoothly. Some mother of the bride’s host the engagement party along with the father of the bride as well.
Mother of the Groom
Generally, the mother of the groom falls behind the mother of the bride. Now, that does not mean her role is any less important. She should still offer to help with any preparation and plan get together’s between families during the process. She should always talk to the mother of the bride about their outfits for the big day. The mother of the groom should attend any parties leading up to the wedding including the engagement party and bridal shower and she and the father of the groom usually host the rehearsal dinner. During the actual wedding she also stands in the receiving line and dances with her son.
Father of the Bride
Typically, the father of the bride (and mother) have the first choice on picking the date and hosting the engagement party. In most cases the father walks his daughter down the aisle, although that can change depending on religion, ethnicity, etc. Many father’s give a speech during the reception as well as dance with their daughter.
Father of the Groom
Like the mother of the groom, the father co hosts the rehearsal dinner. Being the co host, the father usually starts any speeches being said that night. The father of the groom also stands in the receiving line and sometimes gives a speech at the reception.
Grandparents
In most cases, grandparents are given special seating at both the ceremony and reception. They are also escorted down the aisle by an usher or another member of the bridal party. Grandparent’s do not typically stand in the receiving line, but that depends on the bride and grooms preference.
We fully understand, planning a wedding and joining two families together can be tough! Hopefully these explanations helped! Have any questions about a family member’s duties throughout your wedding planning process? Leave us a comment and we would be happy to answer!
Photo Credit: Rebecca Arthurs
