Does the groom’s mother go dress shopping with the bride?

Answered by Phillip Nicastro

The decision of whether or not to invite the groom’s mother to go dress shopping with the bride is entirely up to the bride. There is no hard and fast rule that dictates who should or should not be present during this special moment. Ultimately, it depends on the dynamic between the bride and the groom’s mother, as well as the personal preferences of the bride herself.

Some brides may have a close relationship with their future mother-in-law and may want to include her in the dress shopping experience. They may value her opinion and appreciate her presence as a way to bond and involve her in the wedding preparations. In this case, it can be a lovely gesture to invite the groom’s mother along for the dress shopping journey.

On the other hand, some brides may prefer to keep the dress shopping experience more intimate and share it solely with their own mother or close family members. It is completely valid to want to have this special moment with just your own mother and perhaps your sister or best friend. After all, dress shopping can be a personal and emotional experience, and having too many opinions and voices can sometimes be overwhelming.

It is important to remember that the bride’s comfort and happiness should be the top priority. If the idea of having the groom’s mother present during dress shopping adds unnecessary stress or discomfort to the bride, then it is perfectly acceptable to politely decline her invitation. Open and honest communication is key in these situations. It is crucial to have an open conversation with your fiancé and his mother, explaining your reasons for wanting a more intimate dress shopping experience.

However, it is also important to consider the feelings of the groom’s mother. If she is eager to be involved and wants to be a part of the dress shopping experience, it can be a thoughtful gesture to find another way to include her in the wedding preparations. For example, you can invite her to accompany you to other wedding-related appointments, such as cake tasting or floral arrangements. This way, she still feels included and valued in the wedding planning process.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to invite the groom’s mother to go dress shopping with the bride should be based on the bride’s personal preferences and the dynamics of the relationships involved. There is no right or wrong answer, as long as open and honest communication is maintained throughout the process.