Sunday, August 9, 2009

Wedding Planning: The Groom's Role In The Process

By Catherine OBrien

Many brides spend a significant amount of time wondering what the groom is thinking of all the wedding planning shenanigans. Some grooms are engaged in the planning process, others would prefer to be left out of the napkin selection, seating chart creation and floral dcor decisions.

But count them in for cake tasting! It is important for lines of communication to remain open during the stressful process of planning your wedding.

You may need to spell out what you expect of your groom - they aren't psychic! Often times the groom is unaware that there are responsibilities other than showing up and saying 'I do' when prompted to. If you feel uncomfortable filling your fianc in on some of the wedding traditions you expect him to perform (like a gift for the bride on the morning of the wedding) you can ask one of your bridesmaids to relay the info.

When it comes to planning the minute details such as table linens, flower arrangements and motifs for your stationary, you may have to keep your questions very specific. Ask 'which colors do you like better' as opposed to 'what were you thinking for a color palate'. You are much more likely to receive valuable feedback.

When asking for your fiance's opinion, make sure that you really want to hear it - even if it contradicts your own. Make sure that you hear out what he has to say and that you're not merely asking for him to reinforce a decision you've already made up your mind about. If you ask for feedback and he gives it, you need to listen and be prepared to come to a compromise that everyone can live with.

Make sure that you involve your groom in the parts of planning you know he will not find excruciating - like the cake tasting and the song selection - but consider giving him a pass on mundane details like stationary selection and napkin linens.

At the very least, try not to force the issue. Perhaps let him know which of the less interesting details you have on your plate and see if he's willing to offer assistance.

Either way, try not to overstep your bounds. Don't attempt to dress him up in a ridiculous outfit simply because it will match your theme better.

Don't attempt to set limitations on his bachelor party or give him a curfew for the night before the wedding. Marriage is about trust and loyalty, show him that you trust him completely and you'll ensure that things go smoothly.

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