Traditionally, the bride's mother has absorbed most of the pre-wedding responsibilities, while the groom's family assumed more of a back seat. Nowadays, both moms take on a significant role in the planning process, especially if the two families are sharing the financial burden. No matter what the case, here's what's expected of the mother of the groom.

When the engagement is announced, call the bride's parents as soon as possible. Express your happiness and invite them over for cocktails or out to dinner.



Host a dinner to introduce the bride to the groom's side of the family.



Obtain information on where the couple is registered and spread the word to your side of the family. 



Be aware of the expenses typically covered by the groom's family and offer financial assistance, if appropriate, to the groom. Not sure what expenses are traditionally covered by the groom's family? Ask Jennifer at Custom Event Concepts for more information.



Offer to help scout out wedding and reception sites and ask friends and family for recommendations of caterers, florists, and other wedding vendors.



Offer to serve as the main contact for wedding professionals. Especially if the wedding is taking place in your town and the groom no longer lives there.



Draw up the guest list for the groom's family after asking the couple how many guests you are able to invite. This is especially important to get done as early as possible.



Attend the bridal shower and buy a gift. 



Obtain information on where the couple is registered and spread the word to your side of the family. 



Consult the bride's mom on her wedding day outfit. Shop for your own about 4-6 months before the wedding.

Be in touch with the bride or the bride's parent (whomever is collecting RSVPs) and offer to make calls to obtain last-minute responses for anyone on your side of the list that has not responded. This should happen between 3-4 weeks before the wedding.



Traditionally, plan and host the rehearsal dinner with the groom's dad. Planning should begin about 6 months prior to the wedding and the dinner will take place the day before the wedding.

Stand in the receiving line after the bride and groom (along with the groom's father).



Sit at the parents' table (if there is one).



Dance with the groom during the mother/son dance.

Have a great time!