Full Answer
What are the mother of the groom's responsibilities?
We put together eight common responsibilities that may fall onto your plate.Plan the Rehearsal Dinner. ... Provide a List of Guests from the Groom's Side. ... Following-up on Late RSVPs. ... Help Guests with the Wedding Registry. ... Help With Any Family Traditions. ... Stand in Receiving Line.
What should the mother of the groom not do?
Here are a few things a mother-of-the-groom shouldn't do.Don't overshadow the bride's mother. ... Don't act (or dress) like a bridesmaid. ... Don't get too critical. ... Don't steal the bride's spotlight with your mother-of-the-groom outfit. ... Don't try to invite extra guests. ... Don't skip the pre-wedding events.More items...•
What does the mother of the groom pay for?
As a guide, here's a list of the expenses traditionally covered by the parents of the groom: the wedding rings, officiant's fee, marriage license, the bride's bouquet, boutonnieres and corsages for the immediate family, music (band/DJ), liquor at the reception and the honeymoon.
Does the mother of the groom do anything at the wedding?
Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom is responsible for planning and hosting the rehearsal dinner with the grooms' father (typically) the night before the wedding. This is one of the biggest mother of the groom responsibilities, so make sure you start planning the dinner about six months in advance.
Who walks the groom's mother?
As the wedding begins, the groom's mother will be escorted down the aisle, to the first pew, right-hand side, by the head usher or a groomsman who is a family member. A nice touch includes the groom escorting his mother down the aisle. As the groom's mother is escorted to her seat, her husband will follow along behind.
What is the groom's mother supposed to wear?
Because the mother of the groom isn't part of the bridal party, she should avoid choosing a dress in the same color as the bridesmaids' attire, the mother of the bride's dress, or the wedding gown.
What Colour does the mother of the groom wear?
"Skip black or white, unless the bride and groom have requested it. And do not match the bridal party colors unless requested to do so," says Valiente. It doesn't hurt to send a picture of your prospective wedding outfit to the couple before you buy it, just to be on the safe side.
What do I tell my son on his wedding day?
Dear Son, your wedding day will come and go; but all I wish you to have boundless love and happiness throughout the whole life. May you both be strong enough to face all the obstacles and sorrows in your life with a smile in your face and love in your heart!
Does the mother of the groom give a speech?
The mother of the groom can give a speech or just a toast at the rehearsal dinner, as she is one of the hosts of the event. There are some details that a speech should include, such as special memories, stories about the couple, and of course, the toast.
Does the groom dance with his mother?
The mother-son dance is a popular tradition for the groom during wedding reception celebrations. The groom will take his mother out on the dance floor for a special dance together for this tradition. It is a time for the groom to focus on his mother and create a special moment together one-on-one.
Who does the mother of the groom get ready with?
Traditionally, the groom's mother stays with her son on the morning of the wedding, and there's nothing wrong with maintaining the custom. She may feel more comfortable being surrounded by her own family members, and she'll certainly want to be there for photos with her son anyway.
Which mother walks down the aisle first?
The groom's parents precede the bride's mother during the processional. Here's a rundown: After the ushers have seated all of the guests, the grandparents start up the aisle, followed by the groom's parents. Then the bride's mother takes her turn. She is the last to be seated before the bridal party procession begins.
What color should the mother of the groom not wear?
Colors a Mother of the Groom Should NOT Wear It's best to avoid wearing white or any color that resembles the bride's wedding outfit. You may also want to steer clear of blush, beige, or other light neutral tones that may appear lighter on camera. "Skip black or white, unless the bride and groom have requested it.
How much money should the groom's parents give as a wedding gift?
“We suggest no less than $100, but prefer $350 or more since that is an average fee for most wedding musicians when compared to others involved with the ceremony.” Another cost the groom's family takes care of is the officiant's lodging.
Does mother of the groom give gifts?
Traditionally, the mother of the groom does give a gift to the bride. Suitable gifts include a family possession given from one generation to the next. Such types of gifts show that the bride is being accepted as a part of the family.
Which mother is seated first at a wedding?
the bride's motherIn Christian ceremonies, the bride's mother is always seated last and the groom's mother is seated just before her. The seating of the bride's mother usually signals the ceremony is about to begin. 7.
Help With Your Vendor Search.
She can get involved by helping scout out ceremony and wedding reception venues and ask friends for recommendations for caterers, florists and othe...
Manage The Groom's Side of The Family.
After asking how many guests she's able to invite, she can draw up the guest list (and keep track of her RSVPs) for her side of the family and, if...
Figure Out Day-Of Fashion With The Mother of The Bride.
She should consult your mom on her wedding day outfit to make sure there's no clashing. She should start shopping for her own outfit about four to...
Be on Deck During The Wedding.
If you're planning on having a receiving line, the mother of the groom (along with the father of the groom) should stand in it after the couple. If...
The Mother of The Bride usually Gets Her Dress First, and The Mother of The Groom Can Go from there.
Traditionally, the mother of the bride purchases her dress first. Her choice is meant to subtly dictate what the mother of the groom will wear and...
Avoid Clashing Colors Or overdressing.
By coordinating the dresses together, the mother of the bride and mother of the groom can avoid picking clashing colors or one dressing far more or...
Give Her Guidance on What to Wear.
It depends on your wedding style, but for an evening wedding, it's safe to say a formal dress or a dress suit is the right idea. Mother of the brid...
She Should Customarily Run It by you.
There's no denying she should look and feel amazing on the wedding day. But kindly ask her to run it by you before making any final decisions, just...
If The Groom Has A Stepmom, Protocol Is A Little different.
Traditionally, the mother of the bride will typically only involve the mother of the groom in the "mom dress discussion," but situations can vary....
The Mother of The Groom Should Start Dress Shopping Around The Six-Month Mark.
That way, she has plenty of stress-free time to have alterations made and fittings scheduled, if necessary.
What is the role of the mother of the groom?
Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom is responsible for planning and hosting the rehearsal dinner with the grooms' father (typically) the night before the wedding. This is one of the biggest mother of the groom responsibilities, so make sure you start planning the dinner about six months in advance. Ask the mother of the bride if you need help contacting and coordinating roles with the bride's side of the family.
How to honor your son's wedding traditions?
If your son wants to honor any family or ethnic traditions at his wedding, one mother of the groom duty is to help him figure out how to incorporate these traditions. Sit down with your son and future son- or daughter-in-law and discuss your ideas and suggestions. Be careful not to step on toes. Make sure you are sensitive to what your son and his fiancée want, not what you wish for them
What are the costs of a wedding?
Weddings are expensive, and though the majority of the wedding costs are traditionally covered by the bride's family, there are some expenses that the father and mother of the groom are expected to pay for. This can include: 1 Engagement and wedding rings 2 Marriage license 3 Officiant fee 4 Bouquet 5 Your son's wedding suit 6 Boutonnieres and corsages 7 The rehearsal dinner 8 DJ, band or other reception music 9 Alcohol at the reception 10 The couple's honeymoon
How to spend time with family before wedding?
If possible, attend the shower and buy a gift. Offer to come early to help the family members prepare for the party. This is a great opportunity to spend more time with the family before the wedding.
Is a wedding expensive?
Weddings are expensive, and though the majority of the wedding costs are traditionally covered by the bride's family, there are some expenses that the father and mother of the groom are expected to pay for. This can include:
Does the mother of the groom fade into the background?
The old joke is that the mother of the groom is supposed to fade into the background at the wedding, but that doesn't have to be true for you. Just make sure you honor the theme of the wedding and any clothing styles/colors the bride requests.
How to be the mother of the groom?
The first thing you should do as the mother of the groom is to plan a dinner with his fiancée’s parents and have a formal but simple introduction with the family of the bride. This will give both the families an opportunity to get to know each other. Listening to their ideas and seeking common ground when it comes to the wedding preparations can be done during the dinner. Whether you are the parents of the groom or the bride, all you want to do is help them both have a nice wedding ceremony. So now is the time to use your communication skills and express your sincerity towards the family of the bride, which will make your son’s wedding even better from the beginning to the end. You can also use the dinner as an opportunity to decide the date of the couple’s wedding.
Why is it important to let the new couple know about their wedding traditions?
It is important to let the new couple know whether there are any wedding traditions in their family background culturally and religiously that they need to consider while planning their wedding ceremony and reception. Sometimes, the family, culture and religious traditions can affect factors like the selection of wedding dress colors for the bride and groom, wedding venue and reception food. So the parents of the groom, especially the mother should guide the couple about the traditions they are supposed to follow for their wedding.
What factors affect the wedding dress color?
Sometimes, the family, culture and religious traditions can affect factors like the selection of wedding dress colors for the bride and groom, wedding venue and reception food. So the parents of the groom, especially the mother should guide the couple about the traditions they are supposed to follow for their wedding. 4.
What is the mother-son dance?
One of the most important and traditional duties of the groom’s mother is the mother-son dance, which is also the special part of the wedding day for mom and son. You can choose the song with your son together, and practice the dance ahead of the wedding. Both you and your son will naturally be excited while planning the wedding.
What to ask the bride at a bridal shower?
As the mother in law to be, you can ask the bride when and where the bridal shower will be held, and make it a priority in your schedule so you don’t miss the event. Since you are about to become a family you can also welcome and greet guests along with the bride. This is a great time to meet other important people in your daughter in law’s life such as her close relatives and friends.
How to help your son at a wedding?
You could let the new couple and your future in-laws know that you’re available to help, such as financial support, hosting the wedding and reception parties, deciding the wedding venue and providing effective information about the best caterers, vendors, florists, etc. If your son is too busy or over-burdened with various other wedding tasks, you can help him out by contacting all the wedding vendors and be the hostess to ensure every guest feels welcome at the wedding ceremony.
How to spread the news of your son's wedding?
After your son’s wedding preparations have started you can spread the news of the wedding through Facebook, calls, emails or texts and have general communication with your side of the family about your son’s wedding.
What are the traditional mother of the groom responsibilities?
The mother of the groom can take over any of the wedding planning responsibilities once you get the go-ahead from the bride. And for a full rundown, see this detailed list of traditional mother of the groom duties.
What does the mother of the bride do on her wedding day?
Per general etiquette, the mother of the bride buys her wedding day outfit first, then notifies the mother of the groom about the color, length and overall formality of her choice. But if the groom's mom doesn't get word by the four-month mark, she should touch base with the bride-to-be about what to do.
Does the groom's family only pay for the rehearsal dinner or should they plan it too? Who makes up the guest list?
Confer with the bride and groom to devise a game plan that you and the father of the groom, as hosts, will eventually carry out. For example, they'll provide you with a guest list (usually the wedding party, parents, grandparents and close out-of-town relatives), and you'll be the one to send out invitations. Get a sense of what they're looking for ( musical entertainment, a pizza party, a backyard picnic, a four-course meal at the club) and then offer to make the necessary arrangements and reservations. Of course, negotiating who's invited and where to eat may be necessary if money is an issue. Try your best to compromise, while keeping the wishes of the bride and groom at heart.
Does the mother of the groom have to stand in the receiving line?
Having a receiving line is optional, but they're a staple at traditional weddings. So you can probably expect to join the ranks after the ceremony; traditionally, the groom's parents and bride's parents will flank the newly married couple in line. If you're concerned about small talk, keep in the mind that the receiving line is quick and painless. Guests will simply shake your hand and offer warm but succinct congratulations to you and your husband. So there's no time for chit chat with anyone you don't know (or don't particularly like!).
What can I expect from the mother/son dance?
The mother-son dance is an especially touching tradition and a wonderful way for the groom to honor his mom. Both the mother-son and father-daughter dances usually take place towards the end of the reception, before cake cutting time. Some grooms and their moms decide on a song together; some grooms leave the tune entirely up to mom. What will happen: The DJ, bandleader or banquet manager will announce that it's time for the father-daughter and mother-son dances. Often the groom and his mom are up first.
What happens when a groom and his mom decide on a song together?
Some grooms and their moms decide on a song together; some grooms leave the tune entirely up to mom. What will happen: The DJ, bandleader or banquet manager will announce that it's time for the father-daughter and mother-son dances. Often the groom and his mom are up first.
What is the point of a bridal shower?
Remember, the point of a shower is for all of the women close to the bride to come together for a few hours of gift giving, good food and bonding. If the two camps aren't able to mingle, everyone should try to keep the bride's interests at heart and go from there.
What Does the Mother of the Groom Wear?
Mother of the groom dress etiquette isn't complicated. Like the bride's mom, the mother of the groom should wear an outfit that fits the style of the wedding. The season and venue can both help determine what sort of outfit the mother of the groom wears. Elegant evening gowns, lace midi dresses and chic jumpsuits are all appropriate options for moms. The mother of the groom dress should also follow the wedding's dress code. Formal weddings will require an upscale dress or pantsuit, while the outfit can be more relaxed for a casual wedding. In general, the mother of the groom should wear something that's comfortable and flattering. Go for a look that shows off your personal style—there's no reason you can't wear an of-the-moment trend or your go-to silhouette.
Who Picks the Mother of the Groom Dress?
Despite this, the mother of the groom is still encouraged to talk about potential outfits with the mother of the bride and the couple. Having an open conversation from the start will ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to wedding day fashion.
What should a mom wear to a wedding?
Elegant evening gowns, lace midi dresses and chic jumpsuits are all appropriate options for moms. The mother of the groom dress should also follow the wedding's dress code. Formal weddings will require an upscale dress or pantsuit, while the outfit can be more relaxed for a casual wedding.
Do moms of grooms wear matronly dresses?
Because of this, you'll need a special outfit for the nuptials. Here's the good news: Mother of the groom dress etiquette has evolved over the years. In the past, moms of both the bride and groom traditionally wore matronly dresses—but that's hardly the case anymore. Now, moms are encouraged to wear a look that makes them feel fashionable ...
Should the mother of the bride get her outfit first?
Traditional etiquette says that the mother of the bride should get her outfit first, but this isn't a steadfast rule. By having open communication throughout the process, families can work on a timeline that best fits their needs.
Where does Sarah the mother of the groom live?
Sarah has a degree in journalism and resides in New York City. As the mother of the groom, there's no denying that your son's wedding is monumental for you. In addition to helping the couple with select planning tasks, you'll have an important role in the wedding party on the big day.
Who is Sarah from the knot?
From who picks the outfit to which colors are best. Sarah is an Associate Digital Editor for The Knot, with special focuses in fashion, pop culture and wedding trends. Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Sarah was a contributing writer for Bravo at NBC Universal.
How Long Should a Mother of the Groom Speech Be?
When it comes to length, "short and sweet it the way to go," says wedding planner Nora Sheils of Bridal Bliss in Lake Oswego, Oregon. She says that 3 to 5 minutes is the perfect amount to time to get your point across.
How to greet guests?
Introduce yourself. Of course, everyone will know who you are, but you'll need to greet your guests by introducing yourself.
Who is Lauren from the Knot?
Lauren is a contributor for The Knot covering topics such as music, cakes, venues and speeches.
Should the mother of the groom thank the bride's parents?
According to Kennedy, the mother of the groom should thank the bride's parents for raising a kind and beautiful person. Sheils agrees with this sentiment. She adds that this could be done at either the beginning or end of your wedding toast (depending on your preference).
How to be flexible with bridesmaids?
Cake tastings, dress shopping and makeup trials are all important moments that will mean a lot to the bride. However, if you have work responsibilities or anything that prevents you from being flexible with your time, make sure you communicate this upfront. Let the bride know that you want to be there but if the appointments are during working hours you may have to miss out. If you cannot be there in person, you may be able to take part virtually via video call, which is a great compromise.
What is the planning phase of a wedding?
The planning phase of any wedding is traditionally the realm of the bride and her mother. Even if you have an excellent relationship with your son’s intended, it’s important that you talk to the mother of the bride too.
How to make a connection with a girl after engagement?
Early on, right after the engagement is announced, reach out in a phone call or personal email and establish a connection. You need to let her know that you are excited and available to help in any way possible, without being pushy.
Is it important to pamper yourself for a wedding?
You’re also going to be snapped in a lot of photos, so it’s important to think about yourself just a little bit in the run-up to the wedding. There’s nothing wrong with booking yourself a pamper session to help you de-stress and make sure you look your best. You can even take some time to do a trial for your hair and makeup. The bride will be thrilled that you put the effort in to look wonderful on her and your son’s special day.
Is it bad to be the mother of the groom?
Traditionally, there aren’t too many duties or responsibilities, however, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t be involved. After all, it’s your son’s big day in 2020!
Should the mother of the groom wear beige?
Thankfully, the notion that the mother of the groom should just wear beige and keep quiet (yes, genuinely overheard at a wedding) has largely disappeared. It’s now completely acceptable for you to help the happy couple with the nitty-gritty of wedding planning, and on the actual day too.
What to do if you can't make it to the bridal shower?
If you really can’t make it to the bridal shower, a gift and a heartfelt card from the mother of the groom is the way to go.
Can the bride's family invite the groom's family?
It can be hard to narrow the guest list down, particularly with a more intimate wedding, but that doesn’t mean the mother of the groom should consider her designated portion up for negotiation. Just remember that the bride’s family is whittling their list down, too.
Do brides and grooms appreciate the mother of the groom?
The bride and groom will undoubtedly appreciate the mother of the groom's help on even small tasks, but don’t offer unless you mean it. Volunteer to lend a hand with a few specific things you know you can follow through with.
Who pays for the groom's outfit?
Whether the groom and his groomsmen are buying new tuxedos or suits or renting for the occasion, his family is traditionally responsible for paying for that outfit (Note: In many modern weddings the groomsmen pay for their own outfits.)
Who pays for groomsmen's lodging?
The groom's family is also technically responsible for paying for the groomsmen's lodging, whether it's a hotel or Airbnb. This is another cost that has been passed on to the groomsmen in more modern weddings.
How do brides show appreciation for their wedding?
Many brides and grooms show their appreciation to their wedding party by giving them a gift the day of the wedding or before the weekend festivities start. The groom’s family is responsible for paying for whatever item the groomsmen get.
What is traditional wedding etiquette?
Getty Images. Traditional weddings have explicit roles for a groom and a bride, and each of their families. Etiquette dictates which side pays for which events and items, and who is responsible for each wedding-related task. While many modern couples don't abide by these rules (for example, some couples pay for their wedding themselves, ...
How much does an officiant cost for a wedding?
“We suggest no less than $100, but prefer $350 or more since that is an average fee for most wedding musicians when compared to others involved with the ceremony.” Another cost the groom's family takes care of is the officiant's lodging. “If the officiant is from another town and if he is invited to officiate by the groom’s family, they pay,” said McKee.
What is a bridal bouquet?
Bridal Bouquet. The groom's family provides the flowers involved in a wedding ceremony. That includes the bride’s bouquet, the groomsmen and usher boutonnieres, and the corsages and mini bouquets for the both mothers and grandmothers.
Who buys the bride's wedding ring?
By the time a wedding rolls around, the groom has already bought and gifted a beautiful engagement ring to his bride-to-be. The groom (or his family) is also charged with buying the bride's wedding ring that she will be given as part of the ceremony.
