15 What Are Grooms’ Parents Responsible For Ideas to Help With Wedding Planning
When you picture a wedding, most folks think about the bride’s family first. But honestly, the groom’s parents have their own set of important jobs.
Their involvement can make the day smoother and shows real support for their son and his partner. If you know what’s expected from the groom’s parents, everyone’s on the same page. Learn more here.
Groom’s parents traditionally handle certain duties and costs in wedding planning. Knowing what’s on your plate can help you honor family traditions and be there for the couple.
1) Paying for the rehearsal dinner
You’ll usually foot the bill for the rehearsal dinner. This happens the night before the wedding.
It’s a relaxed meal for both families and the wedding party. Hosting this dinner is a classic way to show your support.
Sometimes, families split the cost, but it’s generally your responsibility. More about rehearsal dinner costs.
2) Covering the groom’s attire costs
You’re usually in charge of the groom’s wedding outfit. That means his suit or tux, plus accessories like shoes and cufflinks.
It’s also common to cover groomsmen’s attire. This way, everyone looks sharp together.
Often, you’ll take care of the mother of the groom’s dress too. She’ll want to look great and fit the wedding style.
Here’s more on what the groom’s parents typically pay for.
3) Handling the officiant’s fee or donation
You’ll often pay the officiant’s fee. Sometimes it’s a set price, sometimes a donation or small gift.
Ask the officiant early about their preferences so you’re not caught off guard. Showing appreciation for their role goes a long way. A little gratitude never hurts.
4) Paying for the marriage license
The groom’s parents usually handle the marriage license fee. It’s a small but crucial step to make things legal.
Taking care of this early keeps things moving and shows you’re on top of the details. More info here.
5) Providing alcohol for the reception
You’re often expected to cover the alcohol costs at the reception. That means beer, wine, maybe some spirits.
Making sure there’s enough to go around keeps the party lively. If you’re unsure about quantities, talk to the couple or caterer.
It’s a pretty standard role for the groom’s parents. More on these duties.
6) Arranging transportation for family
You’ll likely organize transportation for the groom’s family on the big day. This means making sure everyone gets to the ceremony and reception on time.
Maybe it’s a limo, maybe it’s a few cars—whatever fits the vibe. Handling this keeps things on track and takes stress off the couple.
More on wedding day transportation.
7) Assisting with vendor coordination
You can help by staying in touch with vendors—caterers, florists, photographers, you name it. This helps everything run smoother as the wedding approaches.
Offer to go to meetings or help with decisions if you can. Your involvement makes sure your son’s wishes come through.
8) Hosting or contributing to pre-wedding events
You might host or help out with events like the engagement party or rehearsal dinner. These gatherings bring everyone together and set a happy tone.
Often, you’ll help with planning, sending invites, or covering some costs. Being part of these moments shows you care and helps build excitement.
More on groom’s parents’ responsibilities.
9) Supporting wedding planning decisions
Offer your ideas and advice as the couple plans. Sometimes, your input really helps them make tough calls.
Being supportive means listening and helping them stay calm. Even little decisions—like picking a venue or sorting transportation—show you want to help.
More on wedding responsibilities here.
10) Helping with wedding day logistics
You can pitch in to keep things running smoothly on the wedding day. Maybe you’ll coordinate with vendors or help guests find their seats.
Being around for small hiccups takes pressure off your son and the couple. It’s all about keeping things calm and moving.
11) Offering emotional support to the couple
Be a steady presence when planning gets stressful. Sometimes, just listening or offering a bit of advice goes a long way.
Staying patient and positive helps everyone feel more at ease. It can really make the day more enjoyable for the couple.
12) Contributing financially to honeymoon expenses
You might chip in for the honeymoon. Flights, hotels, or even a special dinner—every bit helps.
These days, it’s more common for groom’s parents to help out, especially if the couple’s watching their budget. Talk about it early to avoid surprises.
Read more about this tradition.
13) Communicating with bride’s family
Keep open communication with the bride’s family throughout planning. This avoids mix-ups and keeps things running well.
Coordinate guest lists and event times together. Being respectful and clear shows you care about making the day good for everyone.
14) Organizing the groom’s bachelor party
You might help with the bachelor party, but usually the best man leads the way. Still, keeping in touch with the groom and groomsmen helps things go smoothly.
If you’re involved, support their plans and maybe help with ideas or logistics. Sometimes, you’ll cover a bit of the cost too.
15) Ensuring guest accommodations
You can help make your guests feel welcome by pitching in with their lodging. Maybe that means finding some nearby hotels, or even booking rooms for out-of-town family and friends.
If you share info about local transportation or places to eat, their stay gets a whole lot easier. It’s a small thing, but your help can really take the stress off everyone.
