25 Ways to Include Your Mom in the Wedding
Your daughter getting married is a major milestone in a mother's life — but all too often, it's hard to determine her place in the wedding plans. Here, find 25 ways to make your mom feel special on the big day.
By: Kristen Klein
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Announce Your Engagement in Style -171202
Whether your parents knew it was coming or not, finding out that your daughter is officially engaged is a major milestone. Put some extra thought into how you'll announce the news.
Photo Credit: Toni Lynn Photography
Choose a Special Song
Is there a song your mom always sang to you as a child? Or a song that always makes you think of her? Surprise her by choosing that tune for her ceremony entrance.
Photo Credit: Justin Beck Photography
Walk Down the Aisle
Invite your mom to join you and your dad for your walk down the aisle.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Wear Her Veil
Borrow your mom's veil, and make sure your photographer captures a photo of her placing it on your head.
Photo Credit: Emindee Images
Something Borrowed
Wear a piece of your mother's jewelry on your wedding day. Bonus points if she wore that piece on her own wedding day as well.
Photo Credit: Unveiled Wedding Photography
Wear a Piece of Your Mom’s Gown
Or wrap the stems of your bouquet with the sleeve.
Photo Credit: Nadia D Photography
Wear a Piece of Your Mom's Gown
You can also turn a piece of lace into a garter.
Photo courtesy of All The Good Girls Go To Heaven
Wear a Piece of Your Mom's Gown
If your mom is okay with you cutting a piece of her gown (is anyone really ever going to wear it again?), there are so many ways you can incorporate it into your own wedding-day look — like turning a piece into a pendant necklace.
Photo Credit: Green Grass Gifts/Etsy
Give a Gift From the Heart
It's tradition to give your parents a present before the wedding, but it doesn't have to be costly. A heartfelt letter can mean more than anything.
Photo Credit: Eternal Reflections Photography
Give a Toast at the Shower
These days, it's more and more common for the mother of the bride to host the bridal shower. Be sure to take a few minutes to thank her for her support.
Photo Credit: Lori Studios
Make Her Gown-Shopping Experience Special, Too
Don't let Mom's attire feel like an afterthought! Plan a special day out with just her, instead of trying to find her gown while picking out your own or while shopping with your bridesmaids.
Photo Credit: Amy Aiello Photography
Take Her Gown Shopping
Your mom will be completely honest with you about what looks good (and what doesn't), and there's nothing better than seeing the look on her face when you've found "the one."
Photo Credit: Photo Love Photography
Gift a Photo Album
Don't forget to give her some pictures from the big day! Work with your photographer to create a mini parent album.
Photo courtesy of Something Turquoise
Celebrate a Post-Wedding Brunch
Extend the celebration by enjoying brunch together the day after the wedding.
Photo Credit: Inspired By This
Use Her Cake Topper
Vintage cake toppers are back in style; go for the real deal and borrow the topper from your parents' wedding.Photo Credit: William Walker Photography
Create Meaningful Favors
Whether you bake something together, handcraft the packaging, or just add tags to pre-made favors, work together with your mom to make it special.
Photo Credit: Lynette Smith Photography
Showcase Her Favorite Recipe
Is your mom known for her cooking? Have your caterer recreate one of her favorite recipes to serve during the cocktail hour or reception.
Photo courtesy of Beechwood Inn
Play Her Wedding Song
If she and your father are still married, make sure your DJ plays their wedding song and dedicates it to them.
Photo Credit: Ira Lippke Studios
Mother/Daughter Dance
There's the first dance, the father/daughter dance, the mother/son dance… why not add a mother/daughter dance?
Photo Credit: Jared Wilson Photography
Display Family Wedding Photos
Honor your past by putting family wedding photos on display.
Photo Credit: Kim Fox Photography
Multi-Generational Photos
Gather your mom and your grandma for some photos you'll all treasure.
Photo Credit: Joshua McCoy Photography
Blessing of the Rings
Before you and your new husband exchange rings, invite your mom to say a special blessing to commemorate your marriage.
Photo Credit: Pinola Photography
