Mother of the Bride

Mother's are often the first ones we go to for advice, help, prayer and support. Their wisdom is what has helped us thus far, and even though we may not always show appreciation, we know we'd be lost without them.

In former eras, the mother of the bride was a very big role. It still is of course, however, the responsibilities have changed. The mother of the bride was traditionallly the one who did most of the wedding planning. Because of this, many mothers of the Bride found that they were making their own dreams come true, or living vicariously through the planning of their daughter's wedding.

These days, the daughter most likely has her dream wedding entirely planned out, and their is often a bit of stickiness between mother and daughter when it comes to planning the wedding.

In today's world, the mothers of the bride's responsibilities are still lengthy and extremely important.

The number one role of the mother is to be a listener, cheerleader, compliment giver and overall support source for the daughter. Getting married is a big deal, and planning a wedding can be stressful, chaotic and troublesome. However, with a supportive mother, the bride has a chance to relax and feel confident in her wedding plans. Also, wedding planning can be a great time for mother and daughter to bond and support and appreciate one another.

The mother of the bride is also responsible for helping her daughter find the dress of her dreams. This means traveling to various shops, helping to try on the gowns, giving honest feedback and trusting that the bride knows what she wants. This also means encouraging the bride to stay within the budget, while letting her know that the cost is not the only factor to consider. Also, when it comes to alterations, the mother should be willing to help the bride to make sure everything gets done in a smooth and timely manner.

The mother of the bride is also to help look for wedding and reception locations. The wedding will often take place in the hometown of the bride's family. This means that the mother of the bride is most likely familiar with the area and has good insight on an appropriate place for the wedding.

The mother of the bride is also encouraged to contact the groom's parents and arrange to meet if they haven't already done so.

The dress worn by the mother of the bride is also an important factor to consider. Choosing a dress early is recommended, beige is the traditional color, however; it may also coordinate with the wedding party's attire. Just make sure it is not too similar in style to those of the bridesmaids. Also, it is important that the mother of the bride let the groom's mother know the fabric and style of dress she has picked. This way the groom's mother won't end up wearing the same dress and will be able to find a gown that compliments yours.

Discussing the wedding budget with the daughter is also an important responsibility of the mother of the bride. It is important to let your daughter know what you are willing to pay for and the ideal number of guests.

The mother of the bride is also encouraged to draw up a list of guests for the bride side. The daughter will of course have her own idea, but it is important for the mother to make the list of family friends that she wants at the wedding. While they may have differing views of the guest list, it is important for mother and daughter to discuss the guest list appropriately. Also, the mother of the bride is encouraged to contact guests who have not RSVPd two weeks prior to the wedding.

Additional responsibilities of the mother include; reserving blocks of hotel rooms for out-of-town guests and helping spread the word about where the couples are registered. Acting as a hostess at the wedding and reception are additional motherly roles. Making sure the guests are comfortable and standing in the receiving line. Mothers are also encouraged to make sure the bride has greeted all her guests.

The mother of the bride is also encouraged to attend the wedding showers and rehearsal dinners.

And of course, the mother of the bride is encouraged to help the daughter with any other details she asks you to.

Daughters are also encouraged to demonstrate appreciation to their mothers for helping them with the big day! This typically means a special gift, usually given at the rehearsal dinner.