Mother of the Bride

Traditionally the the mother of the bride took on a major role of planning the wedding, but these days, with many couples working they will pay for the wedding themselves, or split the costs with their parents. 

Her role will depend on how much the bride wants to include her. Among her duties that she will perform are:

 

Before the ceremony

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• She hosts the first engagement party.

• Attends all the showers planned in the bride's honor. She should not host a shower herself.

• Helps with the wedding plans.

• Selects her clothing for the wedding and lets the groom's mother know of her choice.

• Shares a special item with the bride, perhaps a piece of jewelery she wore on her own wedding day, or provides her with all or some of the items, for "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.

• Helps her daughter dress.

During the ceremony

• In some cases walks the bride down the aisle. It is customary at a Jewish wedding for both parents of the bride to walk her down the aisle. Also if the father of the bride has passed away or not involved in the bride's life, the the bride's mum can escort her down the aisle in his place.

• She is the last person seated before the procession begins, which is a signal that the bride is soon to arrive.

• She should be seated in the front row on the bride's side.

• May light a candle from which the bride will later light, a unity candle with her groom.

During the reception

• Stands in the receiving line with the bride and groom. The receiving line can take place straight after the ceremony or as guest are arriving at the reception.

• The bride's mum can be announced at the reception just ahead of the groom's parents and the bridal party.

• She acts as an official hostess of the party mingling and greeting guest.