According to most rules of etiquette, the parents of the groom are responsible for paying for the rehearsal dinner and a portion of the personal flowers. They may also pay for the honeymoon, the groom's cake, and the alcohol at the reception.
As a guide, here's a list of the expenses traditionally covered by the parents of the groom: the wedding rings, officiant's fee, marriage license, the bride's bouquet, boutonnieres and corsages for the immediate family, music (band/DJ), liquor at the reception and the honeymoon.
Unlike the past days where the groom's parents' responsibilities were limited to hosting rehearsal dinner and walking the groom down the aisle, today, their contributions are significant. A recent survey by WeddingWire indicates that the groom's parents cover up to 24% of the wedding plans.
Traditionally, the groom's parents are the ones to plan and host the rehearsal dinner. They are usually also responsible for hosting any other welcome parties for the rest of the guests.
While in some families and cultures, the parents do give a tangible gift to the bridal couple, other families and cultures feel the wedding itself is enough. This means it is completely your choice.
An easy rule of thumb is to stay within the average range of $75 to $200, but you can adjust the exact amount based on your personal finances, as well as your relationship with the couple.
Giving a memorable wedding gift to your son is a wonderful way to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in his life. As a bonus, it's a beautiful way to remind him of you while you're not in touch.
On your actual wedding day, one of the major responsibilities the mother of the groom can take on is making sure that the people at the wedding they know (family and friends) are taking their seats at the ceremony on time, are all set with transportation to and from the venue, and don't get lost—especially if you're ...
Manage your son's side of the family.
Be respectful of the guest limit. Keep track of your family's RSVPs and follow up with any late RSVPs. Make sure you also spread the word on the couple's wedding registry. Your future son- or daughter-in-law will almost certainly love your help here.
Paying a dowry (i.e. a payment of money or property from the family of the bride to the family of the groom at the time of marriage) is an ancient custom that is still being practised in many countries and by many communities in the world.
She can spend a little time with both the bride and groom.
If that's the case, she may want to start her morning with the bride and her group, then leave once she has her hair and makeup done. After, she can head to the groom's getting-ready area to help him prepare for his walk down the aisle.
Again, the couple's parents may or may not walk down the aisle (they can also just take their seats as the procession begins). Traditionally, the groom's parents will go first, followed by the mother of the bride, but the couple may choose to be escorted down the aisle by one or both of their parents.
While this speech has traditionally been given at rehearsal dinners, it's not unusual for the mother of the groom to speak at the wedding reception, either. If you're struggling to put words on paper to express the joy, happiness, and love you have for your son, you're not alone.
Kind Wedding Wishes For Your Son
Congratulations to you both. Dear son, may you bring each other as much happiness as you have brought into our lives, my boy. Our heartfelt congratulations on your wedding day. Celebrating your wedding is one of the best moments of my life.
The mother of the groom should wear colors that look nice on her and complement the wedding colors. That doesn't mean you're supposed to wear the wedding theme colors––you want to stand out at the wedding, not blend in with the backdrop.
Mother of the Groom with the Father of the Groom
Traditionally speaking, the mother of the groom will walk down the aisle with the father of the groom.
Mothers-in-law
A mother-in-law is the mother of a person's spouse. Two women who are mothers-in-law to each other's children may be called co-mothers-in-law, or, if there are grandchildren, co-grandmothers.
The groom might opt to escort his mother down the aisle and to her seat in the front row, followed closely behind by the groom's father. This gives the groom an opportunity to give his parents a hug before taking his place at the altar.
Colors a Mother of the Groom Should NOT Wear
You may also want to steer clear of blush, beige, or other light neutral tones that may appear lighter on camera. "Skip black or white, unless the bride and groom have requested it. And do not match the bridal party colors unless requested to do so," says Valiente.
The groom's dance with his mother is a symbol of his love and respect for her. It is a special way for the groom to show his appreciation and take a beat to spend some time with his mom on what is often a whirlwind day.
Who Buys the Mother of the Groom Gift? Typically, a groom will buy their mum a gift, but it's also a lovely gesture if their partner buys a gift for their future mother-in-law, too. This will show how much you both appreciate the mother of the groom and all the help and support she has given with wedding planning.
Gifts Are an Expression of Love
That loving gesture will not soon be forgotten, no matter how many anniversaries a couple shares. Brides should also consider giving the groom a gift as well, so he can feel just as loved as she does on their special day.
I'm truly excited for what the future holds for you, son, and for your [lovely wife/handsome husband/wonderful spouse]. I know you two will share a happy life together. Brief: Thank you everyone for coming today. [Son], I love you with all of my heart, and always will.