"Mother-Of" Rules

One issue that arises with almost every wedding is the rules for the “mothers-of”. Questions like who gets to pick their dress first, “Do I have to match the bridesmaids?” and “Am I going to upstage the bride?” are continually asked of us here at L’elite Boutique. We want to give a little helping hand to those of you that need those very important questions answered!

1)      Who gets to pick their dress first: mother of the bride or mother of the groom?

Traditionally the mother of the bride had first right to a dress, but honestly why put that pressure? The key to gorgeous wedding photos and a happy, fun filled day is comfort. Let your mom and soon-to-be mother-in-law, choose a dress that makes them feel comfortable and beautiful. The first place you will see discomfort is on someone’s face in the pictures and those will be the visual memories you will look at forever. You want these two ladies in your life to feel just as special and fabulous as they ever have, so try and alleviate a little of their pressure.

      2)      Do mothers have to match the bridesmaids?

This is a question we have day after day! Please moms, stop worrying about what the bridesmaids are going to wear because more than likely you will not be in any pictures with them. Coordinating with the other mom is more important!

3)      How do I make sure that I do not upstage the bride?

There is always a pressure that moms feel about upstaging her bride, or seeming like she is showing off! A fellow co-worker once told me, “The bride has a beauty that only she can possess on her wedding day.” She is the one coming down the aisle wearing white and a veil. You will not upstage her! This day calls for elegance and it okay for mothers to step out feeling spectacular.

4)      What are the restrictions on my attire?

There are many traditional beliefs of what is appropriate or not for weddings; don’t wear red or black. Boleros, jackets, and shawls are a must. You must fade into the background and not look too flashy. Though traditions are okay to follow, do not limit yourself. We see ladies come in all the time that can look elegant and chic in a fire red dress without looking flashy. Black is not a just color to wear to a funeral anymore. Black is flattering on almost any skin color and can add the perfect elegance that a mother would want. As for covering up, don’t sell yourself short by feeling like you have to cover your shoulders and arms with a jacket or bolero. We want you to step out onto that aisle with confidence so break the rules and stop worrying about such traditional views!

Listen ladies! This is not only your daughter or son’s day! It is yours too! You are giving away someone very important away and you worked hard to get them wear they are. Spoil yourself! You deserve it!