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What to Expect on the Day
Whether you contribute towards the wedding or not, the parents of the bride will usually assume the official role of host and hostess on the day.
It is not uncommon however for both sets of parents to host the big day, or for the bride & groom to host (if they have paid the majority of the costs). Whether you're hosts or not, you should still meet and greet all the guests as they arrive and continue to socialise throughout the day.
- If the groom is staying with you, ensure he gets up on time and give him a good breakfast.
- You should aim to arrive at the venue approximately 30 minutes before the wedding in order to meet and greet guests outside as they arrive. The groom will also appreciate your presence as the anticipation builds.
- The parents of the groom should be seated 5-10 minutes before the ceremony is due to start.
- After the wedding vows, the bride & groom will be asked to sign the register. The parents of the groom may be asked to act as witnesses. Both sets of parents are usually asked to join the newlyweds around the register for photos.
- As the bride & groom walk down the aisle after the ceremony, the father of the groom should escort the mother of the bride on his left arm immediately behind the best man and chief bridesmaid. The father of the bride will then follow - escorting the mother of the groom on his left arm.
- If required, the wedding party will form a line to receive the guests - either as they leave the ceremony or prior to being seated for the wedding breakfast. Take a look at the receiving line section for more information.
- After the wedding breakfast, the bride & groom will take to the dance floor for the first dance.
- The parents of the bride and groom usually join them on the dance floor for the second dance of the night.
nofreetime tips
- Ensure you know what is happening on the day and when. If you haven't been told a week before - ask the bride if you can have a copy of the schedule of timings.
- The more people you greet before the ceremony, the fewer you need to greet after the ceremony - allowing you more time to take it all in and enjoy the day.
- Enjoy the time leading up to the wedding- if you're relaxed before the wedding, you'll be relaxed on the day itself
- Consider how you will write your name if you're asked to witness and sign the marriage register (i.e. initials or your full name). If you're interested in your family tree, you'll understand the importance of putting your full name for future generations to see.