MOTHER-OF CHECKLIST MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE: Help plan, host, and pay for the engagement party. Help the bride find the wed- ding dress of her dreams, as well as other wedding attire & accessories. Possibly escort the bride down the aisle and participate in oth- er parts of the ceremony, such as unity ceremonies, when needed. Act as hostess at the wedding and reception, ensuring guests are comfortable. This also in- cludes standing in the receiv- ing line (if applicable), sitting at the parents’ table, and making sure the bride has greeted all her guests. MOTHER-OF-THE-GROOM: Help plan, host, and pay for the rehearsal dinner. If there’s a mother/son dance, help choose a song for it and dance with your son at the wed- ding. Participate in parts of the cer- emony, such as unity ceremo- nies, when needed. As a mom, you’ve already mastered the most important skills needed during the wedding planning process: to be a warm listener, chief cheerleader, and a source of support for your son or daughter. Though you will be there to help the couple make decisions every step of the way, there are a few tasks you’ll be responsible for. BOTH: Assist in communicating with vendors and booking hotel blocks for guests. Help spread the word about where the couple is registered. Discuss the wedding budget with the couple, including what you are willing to pay for, and the ideal total number of guests. Draw up the guest list for your side of the family. About 3-4 weeks before the wedding, call any of your guests who have not responded. The mother-of-the-bride chooses her dress first. Share details about the dress with the mother-of-the-groom. MOTHER-OF ATTIRE TELL VENDORS YOU SAW THEIR AD IN TODAY’S BRIDE | 25