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Duties of the Father of the LDS Bride – What to Do First

Part 1: The Announcement
Advice from a Loving Latter-day Saint Dad

“If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you…”

Dear Dad—
You're about to enter one of the most joyful and emotional times of your life: helping your daughter prepare for her temple-worthy wedding.

There may be spreadsheets. There may be sparkles. And there may be a few meltdowns (not yours, of course). But through it all, your steady hand, warm heart, and wise counsel will mean more to your daughter than she’ll ever be able to say.

So here’s your starting place: the announcement.

Your Role in the Earliest Stages of LDS Wedding Planning

Before your daughter says “I do,” there are a few meaningful ways you can be present, prepared, and involved. This isn’t about taking over—it’s about stepping up as a supportive and spiritually grounded father.

Here are nine traditional and timeless “duties of Dad” for the first phase of the engagement:

1. Meet the Groom

This isn’t an interrogation—it’s a conversation. Learn about the man your daughter loves. Ask about his faith, work ethic, background, family, and future goals. Get a feel for the kind of husband—and father—he hopes to be.

2. Talk with Your Daughter

Ask her about her feelings. Listen deeply to what she says—and what she doesn’t say. Stay positive and supportive. Let her know that you’re with her every step of the way.

3. Offer Your Blessing

It may seem old-fashioned, but giving your sincere blessing still matters. It’s a moment your daughter—and her fiancé—will always remember.

4. Talk with Your Wife

After meeting with the groom and your daughter, talk with your wife about what you’ve learned and how you feel. Ask for her thoughts and listen with love.

5. Host a Family Meeting

Let your daughter share the big news with her siblings and extended family. Make it joyful. Take a few photos. Start building the memories right away.

6. Invite the Groom for Dinner

An informal family meal gives everyone a chance to relax and bond. Keep it light. This isn’t a test—it’s a welcome.

7. Discuss Wedding Plans

Meet with your daughter and her fiancé to talk about broad plans:

• Temple, venue, or both?
• Size and style of celebration?
• Who will pay for what?
• When will the big day be?

You don’t have to lock everything in—just help them get the conversation started.

8. Meet the Groom’s Family

You might plan an intimate dinner with just the parents—or a big gathering with siblings and extended family. Choose what feels right for your family.

9. Go S-h-o-o-o-p-p-i-n-g

Yes, it’s spelled that way on purpose; as opposed to a buying trip where you go and get what you came for, this is a leisurely experience. If your wife and daughter invite you to tag along for venues, dresses, or vendor shopping, smile and say yes. You’re not just there to make quick decisions. You’re there to make memories.

Final Thought for Part One

This is just the beginning of your new role—not just as the Father of the Bride, but as a spiritual anchor in a sacred family transition. You’re not losing a daughter. You’re witnessing a new family being born.

There will be a moment—probably at the reception—when you dance with your daughter and realize it was all worth it.

Keep your head. Keep your heart open. And enjoy the ride.

—From one Latter-day Saint Dad to another