How to Include the Mother of the Groom

The groom's mother plays a far more important role than simply coordinating outfits with the mother of the bride. Honor her with duties that can be either traditional or contemporary.

Instructions

STEP 1: Ask her about any family and ethnic traditions that can be included in the wedding and reception.

STEP 2: Enlist her help in the wedding plans, including choosing locations for the ceremony and reception, as well as hiring wedding professionals.

STEP 3: Consult her about the guest list for the groom's side of the family.

STEP 4: Ask her to make reservations for out-of-town guests from the groom's side.

STEP 5: Invite her to attend every shower, even the bachelorette party - if this would be appropriate.

STEP 6: Give her the honor of hosting the rehearsal dinner. STEP 7: Delegate to her a special ceremonial role in the wedding, such as the lighting of the unity candle or the scripture reading.

STEP 8: Reserve for her a place in the receiving line with the groom's father.

STEP 9: Be sure she dances with the groom at the reception.

STEP 10: Serve the parents of the groom the fifth and sixth pieces of cake (after the newlywed couple and the bride's parents) as a show of respect.

Tips & Warnings

--In a Jewish wedding, both the mother and father of the groom escort him down the aisle.