The Father of the Bride

Dad's are great. They teach us how to do all of those things we never would have been able to figure out on our own. And even if we still don't learn, they are willing to help out anyway.

Dad's have a very special role when it comes to their daughter getting married. While it may be difficult for some dad's to let go, it is important for dad's to be as supportive as possible when it comes to their little girl and her wedding plans.

Playing the role of Father of the Bride can be quite difficult for dads. Giving their daughter into the hands of a son-in-law that they may not be particularly fond of is all too common. Adopting the final realization that your daughter will no longer be under your authority is also often a difficult step.

The tradition of the father giving away his daughter is still an important custom in regard to the wedding itself. While the father is no longer given a dowry from the groom in order to give away his daughter, the father is still, in a sense, the authority over the daughter until the wedding day.

Not every father and daughter will want the traditional giving away of the bride to be a part of the wedding ceremony. However, the giving away of the bride is a wonderful symbol of acceptance and grace to the son-in-law, whether he is fully ready to accept the responsibility or not.

It is important for dad to 'go with the flow' when it comes to the location and general planning of the wedding. While the mother of the bride has a much more active role in wedding planning, the dad is often the one who supports from the sidelines and helps as needed.

Another role of the father is to take a dominant role in the rehearsal dinner and post wedding ceremony dinner. The father of the bride is also encouraged to make a toast for the couple at the reception dinner after the toasting by the maid of honor and best man.