Mother of the Bride in New York

Your family is very important when it comes to wedding planning, as well as the wedding itself. Many people in New York choose their siblings to be bridesmaids or groomsmen, but for all those family members that aren't included in that category- they still have a lot they can do for you.

Of course, your family will be dressed in coordinating colors- maybe not the same attire styles as your attendants, but they will still match. Your family will also be in most of your wedding pictures, possibly even more pictures than your attendants will be in. One thing that your family will be doing that the attendants won't is introducing friends and relatives to the bride or groom.

Do not overlook your family when you are delegating all of the many tasks of the wedding. Remember that blood is thicker than water and your family will be able to take more demands from you than your friends will. One of the best things about families is that each family member will potentially be really good at one or two aspects of the wedding planning. Maybe your mom is really good with finances, or your brother is a trained calligrapher. Figure out who can do what and make sure they are willing and able to do it, and then you can have even less stress on your shoulders.

As always, since your family will be helping you out tremendously, make sure you are good to them. One of the best things to do is come up with a list of things that needs to be done and then ask your family members what they would like to participate in. This makes them feel like you really want their help and you want them to have fun doing it. You may also choose to give them gifts after the whole ordeal is done. This is a great way to show your appreciation, but even just a card and a hug can do the trick.

Usually, you will select your attendants out of your closest friends and family. These people will be the most likely candidates for helping you with all of your wedding planning. If you have more friends and family in New York who can help besides those chosen as attendants, you are in luck. The more people you have helping you, the less stressful your wedding planning will be. Here is a list of typical assignments for friends and family:

Groom:

• Helps with what he can of wedding planning

• Plans the honeymoon

• Picks the band/DJ

• Picks men's attire

Mother:

• Helps pick out wedding dress

• Helps with the theme (flowers, colors, etc.)

• Helps put together guest list and seating chart

Father:

• Pays for the wedding or helps with the budget

• Plans the toasts and heads them

• Helps coordinate the wedding day

• Deals with vendors

Maid/Matron of Honor:

• Helps with whatever planning she is needed for

• Plans the bridal shower (and may host it)

• Sticks close to the bride on the wedding day to help out

• Holds the groom's ring

Best Man:

• Helps groom pick attire

• Plans/hosts the bachelor party

• Gets the groom ready and there on time

• Holds the bride's ring

Bridesmaids:

• Help make favors (if you are)

• Help address invitations

• Help plan the bachelorette party/ bridal shower

Groomsmen:

• Help plan the bachelor party

• Help the groom with any tasks he has for them

• Can be ushers at the wedding

• Decorate the getaway car

Non-attendant family/friends:

• Provide support

• Help with large jobs (favors, invitations, etc.)

• May stand in the receiving line with everyone previously listed

• Can be given simple tasks that the attendants don't have time for

No matter what tasks you decide to delegate, it is always vital for you to thank everyone who helped plan your big day. Some people do this with gifts, others just give a card or even just a hug. Also, always remember that they are there to help you and support you with any task you give them.