Should You Invite the Groom to the Wedding? by Crista Tharp
Posted on Mar 19 2008
Out-of-Control Inlaws >>

There are many things that cause tension and stress within a wedding.  But there’s one that is often treated as “classified” information and ignored.  That one aspect, if left unaddressed, can leave festering wounds upon the marriage and the relationships between everyone involved.  It’s not often talked about until after the wedding when nasty letters are written, people aren’t talking to each other, and feelings are hurt.

Here it is: most of the attention is put on the Bride and her family.  There.  It’s out.  No one ever says it, but there it is.  The Groom and his family sometimes feel that they are invited just as an afterthought.  You have the power to make sure this does not happen.

Yes, typically the wedding revolves around the Bride and her family – that’s the way it has been for years.  They are considered the hosts of the evening and, in most cases, their family pays for 90% of the wedding.  However, this does not mean that the Groom and his family are just around for the ride.   It is easy to forget that the parents of the Groom are losing a child too and that they are excited for the special occasion as well.  It should not be assumed they don’t want to be involved – they just need to be asked how they want to be!  There are sometimes new or uncomfortable relationships that make this very hard to do.  Remember this:  These two people created the love of your life, and they deserve a lot of respect and consideration.  Without them, this wedding would not be happening.

Don’t let this become the foundation of which your relationship with your in-laws is founded.  It will be unstable and be at risk of crumbling in the future.  Take the high road and involve yourGroom’s parents in as much as possible. It is a sign of respect and give them the chance to show you how wonderful they can be.  They may surprise you!