Mother of the Bride or Mother of the Groom? Here are some Tips and Tricks
Your children’s wedding is one of the most meaningful moments in their lives, and yours. It’s a season filled with joy, excitement, and emotion. Here are some dress tips, as well as gentle tips for supporting them through the planning process and on the big day:
Find the Perfect Outfit (That Fits the Vibe)
The mother’s outfit should reflect the overall wedding style without clashing with the bridal party or standing out too much. It’s about feeling confident and elegant while keeping the aesthetic cohesive. Here are some tips for looking for your dress!
Start Shopping Early: Start shopping early so you aren’t scrambling close to the wedding date. This gives you time to find something that makes you feel beautiful and fits well. It also gives you time for any tailoring that you need.
Complement, Don’t Match: Your dress should complement the wedding colors without matching the bridesmaids’ dresses exactly. Soft neutrals, jewel tones, or metallics are great options.
Comfort is Key: A cut and fabric that allows you to move and feel comfortable all day, as no one wants to be adjusting straps or zippers during the reception!
Moms, Communicate with each other!: If both mothers are involved, a quick chat about color choices can prevent any accidental matching or clashing moments.
Ways to Make an Impact & Support
Be a sounding board, not the steering wheel: Offer your wisdom and perspective, but let them make the final calls. Sometimes, the best gift is simply listening without trying to solve.
Share traditions with an open heart: If there’s a special family tradition you’d love included, mention it early in planning so it can be woven in naturally, but be open to how it might be adapted to fit the couple’s style.
Support their vendor choices: Trust the couple’s vision and vendors, even if they differ from what you imagined. A little faith in their choices goes a long way in creating a stress-free process.
Offer help that’s specific and actionable: Instead of “Let me know if you need anything,” try, “Would you like me to assemble welcome bags?” or “Can I take care of tracking RSVPs?” Clear offers are easier to accept.
Respect boundaries around the guest list: The guest list can be one of the trickiest parts of planning. Share your suggestions, but understand the couple’s priorities for size, budget, and intimacy.
Be mindful of the couple’s budget: If you want to contribute financially, be clear about how and when, and avoid surprising them with last-minute requests that could increase costs.
Help them be present on the big day: On the wedding day, gently help manage well-meaning relatives or friends so the couple can stay focused on enjoying every moment.
Make space for your own emotions: It’s normal to feel sentimental, nostalgic, or even a little overwhelmed. Give yourself grace to feel it all, while keeping the spotlight on the couple.
Take care of yourself, too: Get rest, eat well, and carve out a moment for yourself during the day. A happy, calm parent makes for an even more joyful celebration.
