The Unsung Heroine of Wedding Planning: A Tribute to the Mother of the Bride
Let’s shine the spotlight on a truly remarkable figure – the mother of the bride or MOB for short. While weddings are often associated with the bride and groom, we mustn’t forget the special woman who’s been there every step of the way, keeping things light, helping calm nerves and keeping a level head in the midst of the planning chaos.
A Balancing Act of Love and Logistics
The role of the mother of the bride is truly a balancing act. On one hand, there’s the boundless love and pride of seeing your daughter embark on this beautiful journey, and on the other, the logistical challenges that come with planning an event to remember.
Struggle 1: Emotional Rollercoaster
This journey really tugs at a mom’s heart. I can attest, watching your little girl blossom into a bride-to-be is a whirlwind of emotions! From reminiscing about her first steps to helping her choose the perfect wedding dress, the mother of the bride navigates through a sea of tears, laughter, and heartwarming moments.
Struggle 2: Budgeting with a Smile
Weddings can be expensive, and the mother of the bride often plays a significant role in the financial planning. Balancing a budget while ensuring a memorable day can be a juggling act, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative and find fun, cost-effective solutions.
Laughter and Light in the Chaos
In the midst of all these struggles, the mother of the bride brings an irreplaceable sense of joy and light to the wedding journey. Here are a few tips to keep things light and fun:
Laughter is the Best Medicine:
When things get hectic, remember to find humor in the little mishaps that are bound to happen during wedding planning. Those funny anecdotes will be treasured memories in the years to come.
The best story from my daughter’s planning was when she found “the dress”. My mom, GMOB, was able to go with us on this day. We still talk about when my daughter came out in one of the dresses (not “the dress”) and grandma told her it looked like a tablecloth. Back in the dressing room she went!
Roll with It
When challenges arise, try to keep calm. If the bride sees you freaking out, she is sure to follow. The Wednesday before my daughter’s wedding, the photographer called and said she had Covid. The Thursday before, one of the bartenders was in a serious car accident (he’s fine now!). And the Friday before, one of the bridesmaids came down with Covid. Everything worked out in the end, and it always does. So keeping calm amid these challenges will help keep the stress low for the couple.
Delegate
I fully encourage the MOB to have her own personal attendant, especially on the day of the wedding. I did this for one of my good friends and she returned the favor for me. I can’t tell you how many times on her daughter’s wedding day, I ran back to the house to grab forgotten items. And when one of my daughter’s bridesmaids came down with COVID and one of her other friends stepped in, my friend altered the bridesmaid’s dress while the rest of us went to the groom’s dinner. There were so many other tasks and errands that were taken care of so I could truly take in the day and not miss one moment.
Moments of Self-Care
Remember that taking care of yourself is essential during this busy time. Treat yourself to a spa day, enjoy a cup of your favorite tea, or indulge in a good book. Your well-being is just as important as the wedding preparations.
The role of the mother of the bride is a unique journey filled with love, laughter, and the occasional logistical challenge. Embrace it with open arms, and remember that while there may be struggles along the way, the end result is a day of celebration, joy, and unforgettable memories.
So, here’s to all the marvelous moms of the bride who bring sunshine to wedding planning! Keep it light, keep it fun, and enjoy the wonderful ride.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
