I just want to help.........

I totally understand and respect that the young couple want to plan and carry out their wedding plans.....but the wedding will not happen in a vacuum, void of others. We, the in-laws and his siblings will play an integral part on this wedding day. Wouldn't it be very considerate and respectful of them to consider our thoughts in the planning process.

Empathy and tact can go a long way in diffusing any possible areas for disagreement between them and us. Share your wedding plans with us. Let us know which details are a must for your wedding.

Ask for our suggestions in areas that are less of a priority for you (e.g. seating arrangement on the groom's side of the family, the guest list for the groom's side, let us be a part of choosing bride's maid dresses)

Keep us informed with updates on how the wedding planning process is progressing and accept our offers to help, where appropriate (e.g. to make wedding favours, perhaps, or to make snacks for the wedding party on the day of wedding to keep everyone energized and well fed?).

I guess it just makes us sad that our son is getting married and we don't feel like we are a part of it other then financially. I guess we will just continue to pray about this.....