Parents of the Bride

Is you're little girl getting married?

First time wedding parents?

According to TLC Family, here are two things you must concern yourself with before your daughter says

"I do":

Finances

Weddings can be expensive. Traditionally, the Bride's parents would host and pay for the wedding, but nowadays you'll often see both sets of parents contributing as well as the Bride & Groom.

Chat with your daughter and future son-in-law and discuss who will pay for what. Will each party give the same amount (i.e: $10,000) or will you pay for specific parts of the wedding like the reception?
It's also customary that the Bride's parents pay for her wedding dress and alterations.

Sounds like a lot of money being spent, right? It is. Be prepared by saving a little each month for as long as you can (some parents start this when she's just a kid). Open a savings account and dedicate it to your contribution to her wedding.

The future-in-laws

Not only should you take time to get to know your future son-in-law (if you don't already know him that well), but you should also get to know his parents. Once your daughter is engaged, invite her fiance's parents over for tea, lunch or dinner. This is a great way to celebrate the happy news and for you to meet (if you haven't yet) and spend time with them.

His parents will be a part of your daughter's new life with her hubby, so it's best if you like them, or at the very least get along with them. Building a relationship with the future-in-laws may save face later as life rolls on when it comes to dividing time for holidays and celebrations.

Check out the article here for TLC's list of the 5 things you should do to prepare.

Rain on your Parade

They say that rain on a wedding day is good luck.

We say, if you think that it's going to rain, you should be prepared. Spring weddings have a higher chance of rain than Summer or Fall weddings - although, lately, Ontario weather has been so hard to predict. Therefore, we suggest you be prepared and roll with the punches, or storm clouds... the best you can.

Overcast and rainy days can sometimes make for the best wedding pictures! Just ask your Photographer for his/her thoughts. I bet they will agree. They may even be able to show you some examples which will ease your mind if rain should fall.

Outfitting your wedding party (WP) with rain boots and umbrellas is not only a popular trend for Spring weddings, but is also very smart. Match the umbrellas and boots to your wedding colours or personality (plaid, stripes, polka dots).

Be sure to get large umbrellas for two members of your WP to use (golf size) and have a few on hand for your guests. The only time you want your face to get wet is when you shed a few tears of joy - so try to stay dry the best you can. Having rain boots and umbrellas also make for fabulous and unique photos. And, if it doesn't rain, you can always use those items simply as props.

No matter what Mother Nature throws at you on your wedding day, be prepared, have fun, and smile!

*Images found on Google search