How to Include the Father of the Groom

While tradition places a great deal of importance on the parents of the bride, modern practices ensure that the father of the groom isn't left out.

Things You'll Need

• Invitations
• Thank-you Greeting Cards
• Wedding Albums
• Wedding Cakes
• Live Band And DJ Rentals
• Wedding Programs

Instructions

1. Ask him to tell you about any family traditions that you could include in the wedding and reception.

2. Give him an opportunity to chip in for the marriage license, officiant's fee, corsages, boutonnieres, bride's bouquet, groomsman's gifts, liquor and/or music - it's tradition.

3. Invite him to attend a couple's shower and bachelor party.

4. Give him the honor of hosting the rehearsal dinner.

5. Delegate to him a special ceremonial role in the wedding, such as the lighting of the Unity Candle or the Scripture reading.

6. Reserve him a place in the receiving line after the groom's mother.

7. Ask him to deliver a toast after the brides' parents at the reception and to help organize the bar - especially if he is footing the bill.

8. Grant him a dance with the bride.

9. Serve the parents of the groom the fifth and sixth pieces of cake (after the newlywed couple and the bride's parents) as a show of respect.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider Dad's interests, free time and your relationship with him when seeking his help.

• Partner the dads up on tasks if they make a good team, or assign them specific duties if they're more the "go solo" types.

• In a Jewish wedding, the father escorts the groom down the aisle and offers a blessing.