What Every Bride’s Father Needs to Know
When your daughter is getting married, you might be a bit overwhelmed by what it means to be the father of the bride. The main things that dads need to worry about are what to wear, what their ceremonial roles are, and of course: how much will this all cost?
The rehearsal dinner and the alcoholic beverages for the reception have always been the responsibility of the groom’s family. However, you pay for the rest. In cases where there is a big discrepancy in income, with the groom’s parents being on the low end, it is acceptable to discuss costs and accept more responsibility for the wedding cost if you choose. In today’s society of divorce, many single parents can’t afford the entire cost. The reverse is also true. If you plan a wedding within your economic abilities and the parents of the groom want it more lavish, inform them of your financial ability and allow them to fill in the gaps financially where necessary. Openness is important when there’s a big difference in financial means.
When it comes to the father of the bride’s attire, simply match up with the wedding party. You stand in front with the bride and groom to give away your daughter and your attire should match the attire of the groom and groomsmen. You can walk down the aisle with your daughter alone or accompanied by her mother on her opposite side. As you go down the aisle, quietly tell your child how much she means to you and how beautiful she looks. This is your last opportunity to do that before she becomes a wife and it’s a great way to help your daughter overcome the wedding jitters.
After the wedding ceremony comes the reception. There’s a specific order for those receptions that have music and dancing. First, the bride and groom dance to “their song”. Next, while the bride dances with her you, the groom does the same with his mother. Then the groom dances with his new mother-in-law as the bride does the same with her father-in-law. Finally, the bride dances with the best man, while the groom does the same with the maid of honor.
A final piece of advice for the bride’s father: if you spent a lot of money on the wedding, people know it from attending. It’s boorish to tell everyone and hurtful to your child. If you have problems accepting either the groom or his parents, keep it to yourself and don’t broadcast it at the reception. It’s too late, creates bad feelings and makes you look obnoxious. This is your child’s special day. Treat it with respect.