Parents, In-Laws, and Plans, OH MY!

Traditionally, both sets of parents have specific roles and responsibilities in wedding planning. However, modern weddings often blend traditions, and the responsibilities are shared based on preference, family dynamics, or financial circumstances. Here’s an outline of traditional expectations for each side:

Bride’s Parents

1. Hosting the Wedding and Reception: Traditionally, the bride’s family covers the cost of the wedding ceremony and reception, including venue, food, decor, and entertainment.

2. Pre-Wedding Events: The bride’s family typically hosts an engagement party soon after the couple gets engaged (if they choose to have one).

3. Bride’s Attire: Often, the bride’s family contributes to or covers the cost of her wedding gown and accessories.

4. Wedding Invitations: Traditionally, the bride’s family manages and pays for the wedding invitations, announcements, and postage.

5. Transportation: The bride’s family may arrange transportation for the wedding party and close family members.

6. Accommodations for Out-of-Town Guests: They might assist with accommodations for their relatives who are traveling to attend the wedding.

Groom’s Parents

1. Rehearsal Dinner: The groom’s family traditionally hosts and covers the rehearsal dinner, which includes immediate family, the wedding party, and close friends.

2. Groom’s Attire: Sometimes, the groom’s family will help cover the cost of his attire.

3. Marriage License and Officiant Fee: Traditionally, the groom’s family handles these fees, though nowadays, couples often split or handle these costs themselves.

4. Honeymoon: In some traditions, the groom’s family contributes to or pays for the honeymoon.

5. Transportation and Lodging for Their Family: They may arrange and pay for accommodations for out-of-town guests from their side.

Shared or Optional Responsibilities

1. Engagement Party: Either family can host this,

Which parent is responsible Traditionally, the roles of parents at a wedding depend on cultural norms, family dynamics, and preferences of the couple. Here’s a breakdown of typical responsibilities:

Parents of the Bride

1. Hosting the Wedding: Traditionally, the bride’s parents host the wedding, covering most expenses. However, this custom varies, and often costs are now shared or managed by the couple.

2. Planning Support: The bride’s mother often plays a key role in planning and organizing, especially if the wedding is held locally.

3. Reception and Guests: The bride’s parents are usually the official hosts of the reception, greeting guests and ensuring they feel welcomed.

4. Father-Daughter Dance: Traditionally, the bride’s father shares a special dance with her after the couple’s first dance.

5. Walking Down the Aisle: In many traditions, the father walks the bride down the aisle, symbolizing his support and blessing.

Parents of the Groom

1. Rehearsal Dinner: Traditionally, the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner, which is a time for close friends, family, and the wedding party to gather before the big day.

2. Supporting the Groom: The groom’s parents support him in his preparations, provide advice, and help organize aspects of the wedding as needed.

3. Welcoming the Bride: The groom’s parents might welcome the bride into their family with a gift or a special moment during the reception.

4. Dance with the Groom: In some weddings, the mother of the groom has a dance with her son.

Both Sets of Parents

1. Assisting with Guest List: Both sets of parents usually provide input on the guest list, especially if family or friends are to be included.

2. Participating in Ceremony: Depending on the couple’s wishes, parents may have specific roles in the ceremony, such as lighting a unity candle, giving a blessing, or saying a prayer.

3. Hosting Out-of-Town Guests: Parents can assist with accommodations and arrangements for guests coming from afar.

4. Offering Financial Assistance: Many parents offer financial help to cover wedding expenses if they can and wish to.

Modern Variations

• Joint Responsibilities: Increasingly, parents of both the bride and groom share responsibilities, hosting costs, and roles equally.

• Special Roles or Readings: Parents may be invited to give speeches, perform readings, or have unique roles to honor family traditions or personal significance.

Ultimately, flexibility and open communication with everyone involved allow for a celebration that feels right for all.