It’s something I didn’t do so well, because I didn’t realize I had to plan it. It’s something some of my friends and some of my brides didn’t know to do, too. It’s something I wish I could re-do.

Brides, let me tell you here and now that if you don’t actively plan to make your family a major part of your wedding day, you’ll feel as if you hardly see them on one of the most pivotal days of your life. Sure, they’ll be there. Dad will walk you down the aisle. Mom will help the coordinator move some things around at the reception. But will you feel like you got to share such a special time with them?

Make sure your parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews — whomever is nearest and dearest to you — are really a key part of your wedding. Trade your sweetheart table at the reception for a table with your parents. Get an early morning spa treatment with your mom. Plan quality time with your family. If your family is too large or you think your wedding day will feel too hectic (which is quite likely will!), plan a long, relaxed rehearsal dinner where you can socialize and catch up, or schedule brunch the day before or after the wedding.

Weddings are about marriage, and marriage is about family, after all. Make the most of yours.

~ Laura