^{Image Courtesy of Heather Wrigley Photography}

Your LDS Mother of the Bride Checklist

A Graceful Guide for Moms Planning Their Daughter’s Temple Wedding

First of all—congratulations. If your daughter is getting married in the temple, you’re entering one of the most joyful, sacred, and emotionally meaningful seasons of motherhood.

And if this is your first LDS wedding? Take a deep breath. You're not expected to know everything—and you don’t have to do it all alone.

This checklist was created just for Latter-day Saint mothers of the bride like you: faith-filled, fiercely loving, and trying to balance support with sacred simplicity.

LDS Mother of the Bride Checklist

Things You Can Do to Support Your Daughter with Grace (Not Overwhelm)

3–6+ Months Before the Wedding:

• Have a heart-to-heart with your daughter about her vision for the day.
• Help set a planning timeline with realistic expectations.
• Meet with your bishop to discuss temple recommend timing and endowment support (if needed).
• Discuss the wedding budget with all parties involved. Gently clarify what you're able and willing to contribute.
• Help start a guest list draft for both the sealing and reception/open house.
• Offer to help interview vendors (florist, photographer, venue, etc.)—but only if your daughter wants input.
• Shop for your dress early, making sure it’s appropriate for temple settings and respectful of the day’s tone.
• Help gather or store decor, heirlooms, or photos your daughter wants to include.

1–2 Months Before the Wedding:

• Schedule family photos or gather photos for a display table.
• Help with invitation wording (especially for temple sealing etiquette) and possibly address envelopes.
• Assist with floral selections or centerpiece ideas, if asked.
• Prep welcome baskets or comfort kits for out-of-town guests, especially family staying in your home.
• Schedule your hair, makeup, and nail appointments, or do a practice run if going DIY.
• Find a thoughtful wedding gift or letter to give your daughter on the big day.
• Pray together. Often.

1–2 Weeks Before:

• Finalize your wedding outfit—shoes, accessories, and all.
• Pack an emergency kit (bobby pins, mints, tissues, needle & thread).
• Help confirm any last-minute reception details: food, seating, ring ceremony order.
• If needed, help your daughter pack for her honeymoon or prep for her move.

Wedding Day:

• Arrive early at the temple or venue with your recommend (if attending the sealing).
• Be her calm. Hug her tight. Cry happy tears.
• Help gather family members for photos with love and patience.
• Help guide guests or host a receiving line if needed.
• Smile. Thank people. Soak it in.

You’ve raised a remarkable woman. Today is a celebration of her love story—but it’s also the next chapter of yours.

You’re not just the mother of the bride. You’re her safe place, her anchor, and the one she’ll never forget standing beside her during this once-in-a-lifetime day.

Want a Printable Version?

I’ve created a beautifully designed PDF version of the LDS Mother of the Bride Checklist you can print, share, and tuck into your planner.

Get it as part of the Church of Jesus Christ Wedding Planning Program.
Includes this checklist plus 21 wedding guidebooks, planning timelines, ring ceremony ideas, budget worksheets, and more.