Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom: Navigating Dress Shopping Etiquette

One of the most common questions we hear at Lorraine Nicole's Formals is, "Is it okay for the Mother of the Groom to purchase her dress before the Mother of the Bride?" This question highlights the delicate balance of traditional wedding etiquette and modern practicalities that mothers navigate during wedding planning.

Understanding the Tradition

Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride selects her dress first, establishing the formality level and color palette. The Mother of the Groom would then choose a complementary outfit. This tradition stems from the bride's family historically hosting the wedding and setting the tone for the celebration.

However, like many wedding traditions, this one has evolved significantly in recent years.

Today's Reality: What Really Matters

Every wedding is unique, and most are tailored around the vision and preferences of the bride. While some couples still prefer following traditional etiquette, many others have different priorities:

The bride's preference matters most: Some brides have specific color schemes or style guidelines they'd like both mothers to follow. Others are happy for their mothers to choose whatever makes them feel beautiful.
Comfort and confidence are essential: Above all, mothers should wear dresses they feel comfortable and confident in, that suit their personal style and body type.
Practical considerations can't be ignored: Designer mothers' dresses can take up to 4 months to arrive when special ordered, and alterations typically require an additional 4-6 weeks. This timeline creates real constraints that sometimes outweigh traditional etiquette.

Finding the Perfect Balance

Here's our advice for navigating this situation gracefully:

For the Mother of the Bride:

Communicate openly with the bride about her vision and preferences
If possible, start your dress search 8-9 months before the wedding
Once you've selected your dress, share details with the Mother of the Groom to help guide her shopping
Remember that complementary colors (rather than exact matches) often photograph beautifully

For the Mother of the Groom:

Reach out to the Mother of the Bride to discuss dress shopping plans
Ask if the bride has specific preferences for mothers' attire
Focus on selecting a dress that complements rather than matches the MOB's choice

When Time Is of the Essence

If the wedding date is approaching quickly (within 6 months) and mothers haven't started shopping, we recommend setting aside the traditional order of selection. Both mothers should begin shopping promptly to ensure enough time for ordering, delivery, and alterations.

Communication Is Key

The most successful mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom dress selections happen when there's clear communication between:

The bride and both mothers
The two mothers directly
Both mothers and their dress consultants

At Lorraine Nicole's Formals, we've helped mothers navigate these conversations with grace and find stunning gowns that make them feel beautiful on their child's special day.

Our Promise to You

We understand how important it is for mothers to look and feel their best at their children's weddings. Our experienced consultants are dedicated to helping you find a dress that:

Flatters your body type
Reflects your personal style
Meets the formality of the wedding
Can be delivered and altered in time for the big day

Most importantly, we're committed to ensuring that dress logistics don't become a source of stress leading up to what should be a joyful celebration.

Whether you're the Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom, or a step-parent with a special role in the wedding, we're here to guide you through the process with care and expertise. Visit us at Lorraine Nicole's Formals, where we understand that when you look good, you feel good – and that confidence shines through in every wedding photo and memory.

Ready to find your perfect mother-of-the-occasion dress? Contact us today to schedule your personal shopping appointment.