Each Wednesday, we tackle wedding etiquette. At times, it’s a reader question or one from a colleague, friend or family member and other times we’ll cover a popular issue. (Note: Questions may be edited for clarity and brevity.)
Question: I’m very close to my mom, my father’s ex-girlfriend from before he met my stepmom and also my stepmom. Each party respects and understands their respective roles in my life and while they aren’t best buds, they are cordial and get along well at family functions. All three women are so important to me and I’d like to indicate in some small way their status or place as women in the family. How can I honor my moms during the wedding?
Answer: Kudos to your moms for not only playing nice, but also recognizing their significance to you as individuals. A simple way to show their place in your life and to honor them at the same time is to give each a corsage to wear during the ceremony and reception. Talk it over with your biological mom first, as this is a gesture usually reserved for the mother, mother-in-law and grandmothers. My guess is she’ll be glad she and her co-parents raised such a thoughtful daughter and that you talked it over with her to make sure she’s OK with the idea. If she’s not OK, respect her feelings and consider giving each woman a gift privately and acknowledging them during a brief public thank you at the reception.
Do you have a solution to share or a wedding etiquette question? Email LTEC@MyNewOrleans.com.
