Father of the Bride Wedding Duties.

Article by John Rzasa

Everyone knows the father of the bride gives her away, but did you know that he also has other responsibilities? Here are some guidelines on what the father of the bride does in a traditional wedding.

Planning Period

• The father of the bride traditionally funds most of the wedding expenses, particularly the reception and the ceremony.
• He is responsible for scouting possible wedding locations.
• He may aid in getting out-of-town guests where they need to go. He may also pick family up at the airport, provide maps or give directions.
• The father of the bride is the logistics man and an errand person on the day of the wedding. Since he is usually familiar with the times and locations, he can help with last minute details like picking up the cake.
• The father of the bride is responsible for telling the father of the groom about fittings for formalwear.

At the Wedding

• He is responsible for walking the bride down the aisle and giving her away. The father of the bride is not only giving his little girl away, he is there to be supportive of his daughter as she makes this big step in her life.
• The father of the bride is the official host of the reception. He should meet and mingle all of the guests.
• It is appropriate for the father of the bride to toast the couple at the engagement party, rehearsal dinner and/or at the reception.
• He plays the role of moneyman on the big day. He is responsible for making sure the finances are taken care so the bride and groom don't have to.

What to Do When There Isn't a Father of the Bride

• Pick a favorite male family member; grandfather, uncle, brother or cousin.
• Create a new tradition for this part of the wedding. For instance, the groom can meet the bride halfway down the aisle.
• Have the mother of the Bride walk her down the aisle.