The Father of the Bride

Dad's are great. They teach us how to do all of those things we never would have been able to figure out on our own. And even if we still don't learn, they are willing to help out anyway.

Dad's have a very special role when it comes to their daughter getting married. While it may be difficult for some dad's to let go, it is important for dad's to be as supportive as possible when it comes to their little girl and her wedding plans.

Playing the role of Father of the Bride can be quite difficult for dads. Giving their daughter into the hands of a son-in-law that they may not be particularly fond of is all too common. Adopting the final realization that your daughter will no longer be under your authority is also often a difficult step.

The tradition of the father giving away his daughter is still an important custom in regard to the wedding itself. While the father is no longer given a dowry from the groom in order to give away his daughter, the father is still, in a sense, the authority over the daughter until the wedding day.

Not every father and daughter will want the traditional giving away of the bride to be a part of the wedding ceremony. However, the giving away of the bride is a wonderful symbol of acceptance and grace to the son-in-law, whether he is fully ready to accept the responsibility or not.

It is important for dad to 'go with the flow' when it comes to the location and general planning of the wedding. While the mother of the bride has a much more active role in wedding planning, the dad is often the one who supports from the sidelines and helps as needed.

Another role of the father is to take a dominant role in the rehearsal dinner and post wedding ceremony dinner. The father of the bride is also encouraged to make a toast for the couple at the reception dinner after the toasting by the maid of honor and best man.

It is important for the father of the bride to be prepared and plan ahead what they will say during the toast. It is also important for the father of the bride to be sincere and speak from the heart. Lastly, the father of the bride is encouraged to be brief. A sincere and wise 2-3 minute speech is considered appropriate, acceptable, and is received thankfully by the wedding couple.

The father of the bride is also encouraged to be tactful and not embarrass the couple (that can be saved for holidays) and to also be complimentary in the toast. Also, the genuineness will show through clearly by looking at the couple and sharing wisdom and support with them as they embark upon this next stage of life.

Also, the father of the bride's responsibilities may include hosting the wedding reception. The reception is more for the parents than the couple. It is important for dad's to be sympathetic with their stressed out daughters and wives and allow them to relax by taking some of the responsibility off of their shoulders when it comes to the reception.

The reception is an opportunity for dad to welcome guests, as well as meet the groom's extended family and friends. It is also important for dad to stay sober. The dad is expected to drink moderately if at all. The responsibilities of hosting means maintaining appropriate demeanor and remain a positive example.

Also, the dance is a big deal for dads and daughters. If dads are not used to social dancing, this can be a very awkward moment. Take time to practice dancing ahead of time. Letting the DJ know to keep the dance of the dad and daughter short is also perfectly acceptable. It is also a good idea to choose a song or have your daughter choose the song you will dance to. Refrain from completely emotional songs; let the dance be memorable, relaxing and fun!

During the dad and daughter dance, make sure the photographer gets pictures of this special event.

Once the wedding is over, the reality will set in. The next job of the father-in-law is to be supportive and accepting of his new son-in-law. This can often be a difficult relationship to build; however, it is appreciated by the couple if the dad continues to be supportive towards their marriage.