5 ROLES YOUR DAD CAN PLAY AT YOUR WEDDING

What's a wedding without a father figure? While mothers often take the lead in organizing and ensuring the smooth execution of the wedding (and we appreciate them for that), fathers also play vital roles in bringing a wedding to life. From providing financial support to walking the bride down the aisle and the father-daughter dances, fathers are more than just smiling and waving (especially African dads who like to show off their children as investments). Here are a few ways to give your father the bragging rights and the roles he deserves at your wedding.

HELPING HAND

Fathers are known as the protectors and providers of the home, taking care of bills and ensuring the well-being of everyone. On your wedding day, they can offer financial assistance and guidance to you and your spouse, drawing from their experience as you embark on a new life together. They can also provide support in other ways, such as leveraging their connections to find affordable venues or vendors. Some dads have an eye for style and fashion, making them valuable contributors to decor decisions, color choices, and ornament selection. Moreover, fathers are there to help troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the wedding, from acting as chauffeurs to becoming instant wedding planners or even mechanics. Their role is to assist the couple in times of emergency and ensure the smooth running of this monumental day.

PRE-WEDDING ADVISOR

Many dads love giving advice, whether it's financial or emotional. Before getting married, spend some quality time with your father, seeking his wisdom. It could be a day of shared activities like going for drinks, coffee, a spa date, or any fun experience you both enjoy. This is an opportunity for your dad to not only offer advice but also provide words of encouragement and blessings for the new home you're about to create with your spouse. Consider engaging in a special project together, like creating a centerpiece for your wedding or getting tailored suits for both father and son. The activity should be enjoyable for both parties, creating a lasting moment before you set off into the sunset with your spouse. You can utilize the advice and tips your dad gives to build a strong foundation for your marriage, benefiting from his wisdom and experience.

GROOMSMAN/HONORARY MC

Another sweet way to involve your dad in your wedding is by having him as a groomsman. Plan a shopping trip to choose a stylish outfit that makes him feel young and special. Add sentimental touches like pinning a flower from your bouquet onto his suit, wearing a jersey of his favorite sports team beneath his shirt, or gifting him a handmade bracelet. These items hold sentimental value for both of you. Get ready together on the big day, and let your dad take on multiple roles as a groomsman, ring bearer, and co-MC. Not only will he provide an authoritative presence and help organize the guests (nobody wants to be yelled at by a dad), but he'll also have the chance to share some of his corny dad jokes. As the host, your dad can receive and thank everyone for attending, a customary tradition in Africa typically done by mothers, but there's no rule against dads joining in and offering their gratitude and assistance.

SURPRISE HIM

Despite their tough exterior, many dads are big softies when it comes to their kids. Surprising your dad with a gift or gesture he never expected is a beautiful way to bring happy tears to his eyes (the ultimate achievement for dads who like to act tough). There are numerous ways to amaze your dad on your wedding day. Have his favorite drink served at the reception or have your groomsmen and groom wear his favorite team jerseys. Consider a customized jersey signed by his favorite player. Let your dad have the customary 'first look,' allowing him to be the first one to see you in your wedding dress and offer compliments before giving you away. Leave a heartfelt letter of appreciation and a thoughtful gift for him before the main event. It could be engraved cufflinks, a "World's Best Dad" t-shirt, or create a moment where he and his spouse can have their special dance.

GIVE A GRAND FINALE SPEECH

Toasts are often given at the beginning of wedding receptions to welcome guests. This moment can also be used by your father to deliver a heartwarming speech to the couple. The speech can be given before, during, or after the reception, as long as it is personal and sentimental. It doesn't need to be long or complex—just a simple, touching speech as a physical display of love and affection for the new couple. In cases where the father figure may not be alive to give the speech, the couple can take the opportunity to give a toast of their own, honoring the memory of the deceased family member with a grand eulogy.

By assigning these roles to your father, you ensure he contributes to every part of the ceremony. This not only makes him feel more involved but also strengthens your bond before your final farewell. What better way to send your child off into marital bliss than by being a provider and protector one last time before they venture into the world on their own?