Start the day with a nice gesture. That being said, a material gift isn't necessary for your daughter—especially if you've financially contributed to the wedding—but a sentimental gesture or action the morning of the wedding can still go a long way.
The History and Meaning of Giving Away the Bride
“Well, the tradition comes from an era where women were the property of men,” she says. “Fathers walking their daughter down the aisle and giving their daughter, the bride, away represented a transfer of ownership from her father to her new husband.”
You may be wondering, "Do you have to get your parents wedding gifts?" Yes, it's customary to give parents and parents-in-law gifts before, on or shortly after the wedding day.
It's not customary for the groom's parents to give the bride's parents a gift at either the rehearsal dinner or the wedding. Traditionally, the groom's parents host and pay for the rehearsal dinner.
Exchanging wedding gifts from groom to bride is a romantic tradition many couples observe with sentimental and meaningful items that they can treasure for many happy anniversaries. Grooms have lots of options to give their brides, from practical ideas to romantic options, that she is sure to love.
Exchanging gifts is completely optional, so our best tip is to talk the idea out with your future spouse.
Traditionally, it is customary to give the mother of bride a gift to thank her for being by your side every step of the way.
And this is no small feat or fee—it includes everything from the venues to the décor, transportation, attire, florals, music, food and beverage, and more. This is why the bride's parents typically receive that well-deserved place at the top of a classically composed wedding invitation.
Consider something needed, like linens, cookware, or maybe pay for wedding dress alteration and don't have the money to splurge for the best option. The couple can also receive something as simple as a gesture that can help them relax and enjoy their wedding.
Traditionally, the bride's family assumed most of the financial costs associated with a wedding, including the wedding planner, invitations, dress, ceremony, reception, flowers, photography, and music.
During the reception it is customary for the father of the bride to make a short speech, thanking the guests and those that have helped with the wedding planning, and talking a little about his daughter and new son-in-law. At the end of the speech the father of the bride usually proposes a toast to the happy couple.
Money aside, they'll take on some important roles come wedding day, too, like greeting guests and participating in special dances. The most important thing they can do throughout the process, though, is support their child, offer advice, and calm any nerves their child might have on or before the wedding day.
There is a religious tradition that sometimes accompanies the father of the bride giving away the bride. As the father and bride approach the end of the aisle, the officiant will ask, “Who gives this woman to be married to this man?” The father will then answer, “I do.”
The Father of the Bride role means more than just contributing financially to the wedding. The bride's father is a critical role in any enjoyable wedding. The father of the bride usually has fewer responsibilities than the mother of the bride, but that doesn't mean Dad's role is any less significant.
Mention The Bride's Mother And New In-Laws
Even if you're divorced from her mother, a line or two acknowledging her part in your child's life will be very well appreciated.
Bride's Parents and/or Family Members
If you're going the very traditional route, the answer to the question “who pays for the wedding?” is “the bride's family.” But you'll see that even in traditional roles, the bride's family doesn't actually pay for everything—but they're definitely a big part of the equation.
How much should a cash wedding gift from parents be? For some parents of brides and grooms, paying for the wedding is enough of a gift. Others want to give something extra. What to Get My reports that some parents give around $1,000 for the couple's honeymoon and some even give $20,000 for a downpayment on a new house.
“When you and I shared that moment earlier, that glimpse of the eye as I walked you down the aisle – just know that's a moment I will cherish forever.” “To you both, it's worth bearing in mind that neither of you will ever be perfect, but you can be perfect together.”
Typically, the father of the bride wears a suit or tuxedo that is similar to the groom and groomsmen. However, this doesn't mean that your dad has to look exactly like all the men in the wedding party. Your dad or father figure can totally wear something else that compliments all the other guys.
Discuss the budget realistically and ask both mothers to be honest about what they are able to/would like to do. Traditionally speaking, though, the bride's family pays for the bulk of the wedding—venue, reception, photographer, flowers, etc.
The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.
When it's time to get dressed on the big day, it's traditional for the mother of the bride to be there to help. You'll hang out in the room with the bride and grab things she might need or help her fasten her dress. You might even help her with her hair or veil if she's not having her hair done professionally.
Many have options for the mother of the bride, as well! It is customary for the mother of the bride to buy her dress first and then share her choice with the mother of the groom.