How to Involve Family in Your Wedding Planning
When it comes to planning your wedding, involving your family isn’t just tradition—it’s one of the best ways to add meaning to your special day. Whether your mum is a legendary organiser, your gran knows all the local florists, or your sister has a fabulous eye for bridesmaid dresses, leaning on their experience and talent makes the whole process smoother and far more enjoyable.
Here are seven thoughtful and genuinely useful ways to involve family in your wedding planning, making the journey as memorable as the wedding itself.
1. Make Dress Shopping a Family Affair
There’s nothing quite like the excitement of heading out to bridal shops with a beaming group of family members in tow. Not only does it take the pressure off the bride, it’s a wonderful moment to catch up, share advice, and find the perfect bridesmaid dresses together. Encourage your mum, sisters or cousins to try on a few styles—sometimes the best ideas come from a cheerful chat in the changing room.
2. Curate Your Guest List Side by Side
Sorting out the guest list can be, let’s be honest, a bit of a minefield. Why not sit down with your parents and talk it through over a cuppa? They’ll remember all those distant relatives and family friends you might have forgotten, and can help work through any tricky decisions.
It’s a good opportunity to blend both families’ traditions, too. And if you end up with too many names—well, group consensus is your best bet!
3. Assign Wedding Roles That Suit Each Personality
Weddings in Britain are packed with roles, from giving readings to helping with confetti. Chat with your family about who’d enjoy leading the bridal party down the aisle, being an usher, or even helping to choose the wedding photographer. Younger family members often love being flower girls or page boys, while older relatives may enjoy offering sage advice or sharing family customs.
4. Get Hands-On with Wedding Décor or DIY Details
Families excel at rolling their sleeves up and getting creative. Spend a Saturday crafting centrepieces, bunting or making table favours—just don’t forget the tea and biscuits! Everyone, from your little nieces to your granddad with a knack for DIY, can pitch in and help shape your wedding day.
Homemade décor also makes the setting that much more personal and unique.
5. Share Out Planning Jobs (and Praise Their Strengths)
Perhaps your mum is brilliant at calling suppliers, your brother thrives on managing spreadsheets, or your aunts have a flair for flower arranging. Give family members jobs they’ll enjoy and trust. Delegating not only makes your life easier, it turns wedding planning into a shared adventure that everyone feels a part of.
Set up a group chat to keep the conversation flowing and cheer each other on when those big tasks are ticked off.
6. Keep Traditions Alive Together
Whether it’s something old, something new, or a family recipe for your wedding breakfast, inviting family members to contribute heritage or favourite traditions adds real character to your wedding. Ask your relatives if there’s a meaningful reading, song, or small custom they’d like to include—most families will light up at the chance.
7. Capture Candid Family Moments
It’s not all about posed photographs—ask your photographer to take candid shots of you preparing with your family, decorating the venue, or sharing a laugh at dress fittings. These relaxed moments are often the most treasured long after the wedding day.
Final Thoughts
Including your family in planning your wedding isn’t just practical—it’s joyful and truly memorable. From selecting bridesmaid dresses over scones and tea, to corralling cousins for table plans, these tasks build excitement as much as the big day itself. Embrace their support, weave in family traditions, and remember: a happy family makes for a truly unforgettable wedding.
If you’re still searching for that perfect bridesmaid dress that suits every member of your bridal party, browse our UK collection—making dress shopping a treat for the whole family.
