The Role of the Bride's Father in the Marriage

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Evelyn Carpenter

Wedding Book

While the role of the mother is mainly focused on advising her daughter in different aspects, such as choosing the wedding dress or selecting everything that has to do with the decoration for marriage, the role of the father is more linked to the protocol itself, from accompanying the bride in her wedding march, to declaring some beautiful phrases of love for when the minute arrives.to make the first toast.

Now, it is well known that a father is not only the one who gives life, but also the one who raises children. In fact, a stepfather, grandfather, close uncle and even an older brother can perfectly assume this role if you want it from your heart. Still with doubts about the role that your father or father figure will play? Here we tell you everything you need to know for your nuptials.

On the way to the ceremony

Ernesto Panatt Photography

Once you are ready with your princess style wedding dress, make-up and hair done, it will be time for the to set out on the journey to the church If you are getting married, the civil registry, or wherever you are getting married. Then, it will be your father who will come looking for you and will accompany you on this journey, perhaps one of the most exciting of your life. There is the option that he himself acts as a driver, taking you in his own vehicle, or that you have hired a service with driver included. Whatever the alternative is, the important thing is that your father will be there to support you and calm yourself in those anxious moments. The last few minutes as a single woman.

Bridal entrance

Moss Studio

Another of the transcendental functions of the father of the bride is to escort her on her way to the altar. This tradition dates back to centuries past, when daughters were considered the property of their father until they married and then became the husband's. In fact, the bride's father would also transfer all the property and goods that belonged to her to her husband. And although today this meaning is certainly not valid, the tradition is respected, being one of the most important traditions of the bride's life.One of the most touching moments of the marriage ritual, since it is one of the most you will enter by the right arm, at your parent's left side. This is the protocol, except for military men who carry their sabre, which is carried on the left side, so in that case the father will have to offer his daughter his right arm.

At the ceremony

Mainhard&Rodriguez

Whether or not he is your witness or best man, you can always give him a leading role and choose your father to read a passage from the Bible if you are having a religious ceremony, or a meaningful text if you are having a civil ceremony. He will no doubt be happy to help, and if he is musically or oratorically gifted, you can even ask him to perform a song or recite a special poem himself.

The inaugural ball

Sebastian Valdivia

Once the golden rings have been exchanged and the dinner is over, the party will begin with the first dance of the newlyweds. However, perhaps one of the most awaited moments by the bride will be the second piece, in which she will dance with none other than her dad. According to an old tradition, this dance represents a farewell from the father to his daughter, since now the husband will become the main man and with whom he will form a new family. Generally, the classic waltz is chosen, although father and daughter can choose a different style.

The toast of honor

Kevin Randall - Events

Another task that falls to the father figure, especially if he is the godfather, is to make the first speech before dinner begins. The idea is, first of all, to thank everyone for being there and, of course, to congratulate the bride and groom for this important step they have taken. Depending on the tone that the father wants to give it, it can be a speech with emotional, nostalgic or humorous notes. Thus, once these words have been pronounced, they can raise their wedding glasses to toast for the first time as a couple.brand new newlywed couple.

Financial support

Felipe Rivera Videography

And a last task in which the father of the bride can participate, although it is relative depending on each case, is collaborating economically in some items of the ceremony, For example, assuming the expenses of the religious service, taking care of the wedding cake and the cotillion, or paying for the hotel for the wedding night, according to the possibilities of each one. However, in the past, the father assumed the totality of the wedding expenses, nowadays it is mainly the bride and groom who take care of the with the support of the families of both.

Both emotionally and practically, you now know that your father will play a transcendental role, as he will be there to contain you, accompany you and enjoy every moment with you. In addition, he will be one of the first to see you radiant in your wedding dress and hairstyle, while the phrases of love that he dedicates to you in his speech will surely make you cry. So, whether he is your biological father or your dad from the heart, he will be there to contain you, accompany you and enjoy every moment with you,make him a hundred percent part of your big day.

Evelyn Carpenter is the author of the best-selling book, All you need for your marriage. A Marriage guide. She has been married for over 25 years and has helped countless couples build successful marriages. Evelyn is a sought after speaker and relationship expert, and has been featured in various media outlets including Fox News, Huffington Post, and more.