How Can I Make My Son or Daughters Wedding Memorable?
By DJ Cam Reeve
When it comes to helping a son or daughter plan their big day, it can be difficult knowing how to best lend a hand. Parents often worry if they are doing too little or too much. If you're a parent of a bride or groom, you may be asking yourself questions such as "What's the best way I can offer support? How much should I share advice from my own experience? In what ways can I make my son or daughters wedding memorable?" In this article, we'll talk about some of the best ways that you can be involved in the wedding planning process as a parent.
Take the Time to Listen to What They Value
If you take nothing away from this article, let it be this - what your son or daughter most likely wants most is a listening ear. They've likely got a million ideas and plans rolling around in their head and could use a good sounding board. It's tempting to want to jump in right off the bat with suggestions and advice. Resist the temptation! Take into account the things that are most important to them. It may be an amazing venue, a renowned photographer, or a large audio production - everyone is different. When feasible, encourage them to implement their vision and explore their ideas.
Give Planning Advice But Don't be Offended if They Go Another Route
The majority of us (hopefully) think back fondly on our own weddings. It's easy to believe that the way we did things is the best way. We throw on rose-colored glasses and can't possibly imagine a wedding going better than our own. The truth is, there's no one right way to plan a wedding. Brides and grooms definitely appreciate advice that is given from experience by their parents. Sometimes, however, they choose not to follow some or all of that advice. You may have done things a certain way at your own wedding, but this is their big day after all. Don't be offended - it will only create a sour taste in the mouths of everyone involved. Do you want to know the best gift you can give to your son or daughter for their wedding? Your support.
Budgeting
Money for weddings can be a sensitive subject. Beyond deciding who will pay and how much there is the issue of budget. We recognize that paying for a wedding is no small investment. You will most likely define a number that the couple will need to stay within as they choose their venue and vendors. Inevitably, you will most likely be asked for more funding as the couple is inspired by dreamy posts on social media and wishes to pursue every idea that crosses their feed. When it comes to budget, set a goal but realize that some flexibility is almost required for weddings.
Be the First (and Last) on the Dance Floor
This last means of support is both the easiest and the most impactful - be involved and engaged on the big day. We use the dance floor because it's an obvious metaphor for us. It doesn't matter if the music doesn't really align with your tastes 100% of the time - jumping on the dancefloor when the first beat drops is a memory they'll never forget. This is such a great way to make your son or daughters wedding memorable
The best parties we've been a part of are the ones where family is the first and last on the dance floor. The energy and photos that come from those moments, when parents are on the floor with their children, are memories that will never be forgotten. "I can't tell you how many events I've been to where mom, dad, or even grandpa jump on the dance floor to a song they don't know, and those moments instantly become a highlight for a Bride or Groom and all the people in attendance." -DJ Cam
Partying until the end, apart from being a great time, helps encourage other guests to join the fun. This mentality extends beyond dancing - on their big day, be there for them in any way they need, from start to finish. This, along with the other points mentioned above, are just a few of the ways you can make your son or daughters wedding memorable.
