How Moms and Daughters Can Stay Close During Wedding Season

Wedding season is one of the most exciting and emotional times in a woman's life. For mothers and daughters especially, it can bring out a mix of love, nostalgia, pride and unexpected tension. Between the big decisions, busy schedules and high emotions, its easy for hurt feelings or arguments to sneak in if you're not careful.

I know this from experience. 

One of the most surprising emotions that came up for me and something many mothers experience is how bittersweet this transition can be. You can absolutely adore your child's future spouse, fully support their relationship and still feel a quiet ache at the idea of letting go. Its not about losing your daughter its about sharing her in a new way.

Holidays might look different. Traditions may need to be blended. The way you've always done things as a family starts to shift and even when you know it's healthy and good, it can still sting.

Thats okay. Those emotions don't make you selfish or unsupportive they make you human. It's just another part of loving deeply and watching your child step into her next chapter. What matters most is acknowledging the feeling, giving yourself grace and allowing room for the relationship to evolve not end, but grow.

I wanted everything to be absolutely perfect for her and for me. Looking back, I realize that my need for perfection and my emotions made me a little harder to deal with at times.

Lucky for me, my daughter and I are incredibly close and our special bond carried us through. Even though we had a few minor disagreements, they never put a dent in our relationship.  With a little more patience and perspective, the process could have been even sweeter and less stressful for both of us.

That's why I'm sharing these heartfelt tips so you and your daughter (or you and your mom!) can walk through this beautiful season with even more grace, patience and love.

Here's what I learned and what I hope can help you too:

1. Set Expectations Early:  The key to a smooth journey is clear communication from the beginning.

Brides: kindly share how involved you want your mom to be.

Moms: ask your daughter how you can best support her vision.

This helps avoid misunderstandings and allows both of you to step into roles that feel good and respectful.

2. Communicate with Curiosity, Not Control

Instead of offering immediate opinions or advice, approach conversations with curiosity. Ask questions like, What are you envisioning for the ceremony? or How can I help you make this feel like your dream day?  This opens the door for collaboration rather than conflict and shows that you value each other's ideas.

3. Define Roles and Responsibilities

Planning a wedding involves a lot of moving parts. It is easy for things to slip through the cracks or for wires to get crossed. Agree early on who will handle what tasks whether it's managing guest lists, booking vendors, or planning pre-wedding events.  A clear game plan keeps everyone in their lane and reduces stress for everyone involved.

4. Create No Wedding Talk Zones

It is easy for every conversation to turn into wedding talk during this busy season. But remember your relationship is more than just one event.  Plan regular moments (like coffee dates or walks) where you intentionally don't talk about the wedding.  It'll give you both a chance to relax, recharge and stay connected outside of planning.

5. Compliment Before You Critique

If you don't love a dress, a venue or a color choice pause before offering criticism. Start with something positive first:   You look so radiant in that dress tell me what you love most about it?  This helps keep the conversation supportive and affirming, even when opinions differ.

6. Pick Your Battles

In the grand scheme of things, does it really matter if the napkins are ivory instead of pure white?  Focus on the heart of the day the celebration of love and let the small stuff go. You'll both enjoy the process so much more.

7. Remember: It's a Big Transition for Both of You

Moms might be feeling the bittersweetness of seeing their daughter step into a new chapter.  Daughters might feel a mix of excitement and pressure to make everyone happy. Give each other grace and recognize that emotions are natural they come from a deep place of love.

8. Take Breaks When Needed

If a conversation starts to get heated or emotional, it's okay to take a breather.  Step back, breathe and revisit the topic later with a calm heart and fresh perspective. Protecting your relationship is always more important than winning a moment.

9. Celebrate Together

Make time to create joyful memories together beyond the wedding checklist.  Whether it's dress shopping, a fun brunch, or a weekend getaway, these moments will become some of your favorite memories from this season.

10. Always Lead with Love

When tensions rise, pause and ask yourself,  Is what I'm about to say coming from a place of love or my need to be right or in control?  If it is coming from a place of love, say it. If not, take a moment to reframe it. Love should be the guiding force behind every decision, every conversation and every day of this journey.

At the end of the day, weddings come and go but your bond is forever.  If there is one thing I learned when my daughter got married, is that staying connected through all the emotions is the most important thing of all.

Perfection doesn't make a wedding special love does. And the love between a mother and daughter is one of the most beautiful parts of the whole celebration. Treasure it, nurture it and let it be the foundation for everything else.

Outdated Mother of the Bride and Groom Traditions We're Glad to Leave Behind

Weddings have evolved in so many beautiful ways and thankfully, so has the role (and wardrobe!) of the mother of the bride and mother of the groom. If you're preparing for your child's big day and wondering what traditions you have to follow, the good news is: many of the old rules no longer apply.

Let's take a look at some long-standing traditions that modern moms are happily updating or ditching altogether.

1. Muted, Matronly Dresses Only

Then: Mothers were expected to dress modestly in muted colors like beige, navy, or blush nothing too bold, nothing too sparkly.

Now: Today's moms are embracing color, texture, and style. From rich jewel tones to modern metallics, they're choosing gowns that reflect their personality and photograph beautifully. Style no longer means fading into the background.

3. Hats and Corsages 

Then: Formal hats and large shoulder corsages were seen as traditional signs of a mother's role at the wedding.

Now: While hats are still popular at ultra-formal or British-inspired events, most moms opt for modern accessories like statement jewelry, clutch bouquets, or no flowers at all.

4. Hosting Duties Are Firmly Divided

Then: The bride's family paid for the wedding, while the groom's family handled the rehearsal dinner.

Now: Today's weddings are often a team effort. Many couples (and their families) split costs in ways that reflect their budgets and relationships are not outdated expectations.

Reality Check: The days who pays for what rulebook has been tossed. Focus on what works best for your family dynamic.

5. Moms Stay Out of the Spotlight

Then: Mothers were expected to be reserved and staying seated during the reception and letting others take the lead.

Now: Moms are often center stage giving heartfelt toasts, hitting the dance floor and fully celebrating this major life milestone.

6. Avoid Matching the Wedding Party

Then: It was considered inappropriate for mothers to wear anything resembling the bridal party.

Now: Coordination is key! While moms don't match the bridesmaids exactly, they often choose complementary colors and styles to create a beautifully cohesive look in photos.

Example: If the bridesmaids are wearing dusty blue, a mother of the bride might wear slate, navy, or soft silver.

7. No Black or White Allowed

Then: Black was considered too somber, and white was seen as competing with the bride.

Now: A sleek black dress is often encouraged (especially for evening or formal weddings), and ivory or champagne tones can be stunning on mothers as long as they don't overshadow the bride's gown.

The most important tradition to keep? Feeling beautiful, confident and like yourself. Whether you're the mother of the bride or the groom, your outfit should honor the occasion and your own sense of style. Forget the outdated rules this is your moment, too.

Need Help Finding the Perfect Look?

As a personal stylist who specializes in dressing mothers of the bride and groom, I help women find dresses that flatter their body type, fit the formality of the wedding, and reflect their personal style.

To set up your free thirty-minute consultation to learn how virtual styling can help you in your search for the perfect gown.

Looking Back: The Beautiful, Messy Journey of Being a Working Mom, Single Mom and Entrepreneur.

When I look back on my journey as a mom, specifically a single mom, and an entrepreneur; I feel a wave of emotions that's hard to name. I wasn't just working a job; I was building something from scratch while raising two kids. I was chasing dreams and paying bills at the same time. I was in survival mode some days, visionary mode on others and often both before lunch.

From the beginning, I had one clear goal: To raise my kids to be strong enough to go out into the world and truly excel and be able to stand on their own two feet and live meaningful, independently happy lives. That was always the mission. But, even with that kind of purpose, I still sometimes focus on where I failed instead of where I succeeded. It's like my brain has a highlighter just for the moments I wish I could redo.

I remember how my kids could tell when I was about to lose it because I'd start lecturing myself through clenched teeth.  It makes us laugh now, but I know when they were younger, it was probably confusing or even a little scary. I was trying so hard to stay in control, to hold the line, and to carry all the weight without letting it crush any of us. 

I also tried to get along with their dad. Truly, I did try. I know I picked some of those fights. At the time, they felt like righteous battles. I believed I was standing up for myself and for my kids.  I now understand that a lot of those things I had held onto, I probably could've let them go. I see the value of peace over being right, but it took time and experience to learn that.

 I'm incredibly lucky, I'm close with both my son and my daughter. We made it through those hard, growing years and now I get to see the adults they've become. They're strong, kind, and capable people - that's a win!

I'm also blessed with a bigger, blended family now. In this new season, I feel a deep desire to get it right again; to love well, to lead and to be present in a way that honors all we've been through. 

Being a bonus mom is one of the most meaningful and delicate roles I've ever stepped into. I don't take lightly the trust it takes for a child to open their heart to someone new, and my hope is always to earn that trust through love, consistency, and respect. I want to be the kind of stepmom who brings comfort and support.  I deeply honor the family they had before ours came together. I know I'm not here to replace anyone, but rather to add to the love they already have and to help create a home where all parts of their story are valued and respected. At the end of the day, love is the most important part of being a family; even in the chaos and in the grind of learning and growing.  You don't have to be a perfect parent, just a present one. Keep showing up and keep loving hard, the rest works itself out.

Getting a spray tan can be a fantastic way to achieve a sun-kissed glow for a special occasion. Whether it's a wedding, reunion or any other event where you want to look your best, a spray tan can enhance your look and give you that extra boost of confidence. However, if you are not accustomed to getting spray tans, there are several potential pitfalls to be aware of. Here are some common issues you might encounter and how to avoid them for a flawless, natural-looking tan.

1. Uneven Color or Streaking

One of the most common complaints from first-time spray tan users is uneven color or streaking. This usually happens when the skin isn't properly prepped before the appointment.

Why It Happens: Uneven exfoliation or dry patches on the skin can cause the tanning solution to cling more to certain areas, leading to blotchy, streaky results.

 How to Avoid It: Exfoliate thoroughly before your appointment, paying special attention to dry areas like elbows, knees and ankles. Choose an experienced spray tan technician who knows how to apply the product evenly.

2. Orange or Unnatural Tint

No one wants to look like an Oompa Loompa, but that can happen if the wrong shade is chosen.

Why It Happens: Using a shade that is too dark for your natural skin tone or using a low-quality tanning solution can lead to an unnatural, orange tint.

How to Avoid It: Opt for a shade that complements your natural skin tone for a more natural look. Visiting a reputable salon with high-quality tanning products can also make a big difference.

3. Patchiness as It Fades

Spray tans are temporary and will eventually fade, but uneven fading can look patchy and unattractive.

 Why It Happens: This can occur due to dry skin, inconsistent moisturizing, or uneven exfoliation.

How to Avoid It: Keep your skin hydrated by moisturizing daily after getting the tan. When the color starts to fade, exfoliate gently to ensure even removal.

4. Color Transfer to Clothing or Bedding - Waking up to find your spray tan all over your sheets is not a fun experience.

Why It Happens: If the tan hasn't fully dried or you sweat soon after the application, the color can transfer to your clothing or bedding.

 How to Avoid It: Wear loose, dark clothing after your appointment and avoid activities that cause sweating or water exposure for at least 6-8 hours.

5. Allergic Reactions or Skin Irritation - If you have sensitive skin, a spray tan could cause itching, redness, or even a rash.

 Why It Happens: Some people are sensitive to DHA (the active ingredient in spray tans) or other chemicals in the solution.

 How to Avoid It: Always do a patch test at least 24-48 hours before getting a full-body spray tan, especially if you are trying a new brand or formula.

6. Clogged Pores or Breakouts-  Spray tans can sometimes clog pores and lead to breakouts, particularly on the face or chest.

Why It Happens: Residue from the spray tan solution can clog pores, especially if your skin is prone to acne.

 How to Avoid It: Cleanse your face thoroughly before the tan and use a non-comedogenic tanning formula to reduce the risk of breakouts.

7. Hands and Feet Looking Unnatural - Have you ever seen someone with dark, unnatural-looking hands or feet? It's a common spray tan mishap.

 Why It Happens: Dry skin on hands and feet absorbs more of the tanning solution, resulting in an overly dark or uneven appearance.

How to Avoid It: Apply a light layer of moisturizer to your hands, feet, elbows, and knees before the tan to create a barrier that prevents over-absorption.

8. Color Mismatching with Makeup or Hairstyle A new tan can change the way your usual makeup or hairstyle looks.

Why It Happens: A different skin tone can affect how your foundation, blush, and even hair color appear.

 How to Avoid It: Plan for potential adjustments to your makeup routine. Consider getting a new foundation shade to match your tanned skin tone.

9. Uneven or Quick Fading - Nothing is worse than having a beautiful tan that disappears before the big event.

Why It Happens: Factors like swimming, sweating, or using harsh soaps can cause the tan to fade unevenly or too quickly.

 How to Avoid It: Avoid chlorinated pools, hot tubs, and abrasive body scrubs. Use sulfate-free and moisturizing body washes to prolong the life of your tan.

Tips for First-Time Spray Tan Users: 

 Timing is Everything: Schedule your tan at least two days before your special event to allow the color to fully develop and for any necessary touch-ups.

 Pre-Tan Prep: Exfoliate and shave at least 24 hours before your appointment for the smoothest, most even application.

 Post-Tan Care: Avoid oil-based products as they can interfere with the tan's absorption and longevity.

 Is a Spray Tan Worth It?

Spray tans can be a great way to enhance your look for a special occasion, but they do require some planning and care. If it's your first time, it's crucial to understand the potential pitfalls and take the necessary precautions to avoid them.

By choosing the right shade, prepping your skin properly, and maintaining your tan with the right products, you can achieve a gorgeous, natural-looking glow that enhances your beauty and boosts your confidence on your special day.

Weddings are celebrations filled with joy, love and lots of planning. Mothers of the bride and groom are often the emotional anchors, the silent supporters and the unsung heroines who work tirelessly behind the scenes. One of the significant yet frequently overlooked challenges is finding the perfect gown for mom. I am here to help you navigate the search with grace and style.

You aren’t just picking out a dress; you're gearing up for a monumental family event. The dress becomes more than just fabric and thread; it is a testament to love, and the cherished role a mother plays in her child's life. When the big day arrives, seeing your child walk down the aisle makes every moment of this journey worthwhile.                       

When stressing about the right color to wear a great rule of thumb is if the wedding colors are bright or bold, then choosing softer muted variations. For instance, if the wedding colors are burgundy some complimentary colors would be sage, blush, lavender, rusty orange, dark teal and even mustard. If the wedding colors are soft like sage and blush think about colors like navy, slate blue, brown, plum or forest green. This should make scoring a shade that complements you while adhering to the wedding palette easier!

                                                Mother of the Groom                 Bridesmaids                      Mother of the Bride

As moms we often wrestle with sky-high expectations and pressure we put on ourselves to show up as the best possible version of ourselves. Not to mention the pressure we feel from family, friends and social media to look perfect. Finding a gown that hugs the right curves and minimizes the parts that we don't love can feel like a scavenger hunt. Unlike brides, who get dresses tailored to their whims, as moms' we often don't allow ourselves to have that same VIP treatment. Many of us struggle with body confidence, especially as the years roll on, and our bodies change cranking up those insecurities.

Good news, times have changed and there are so many options to fit every body type without looking matronly and aged. The first thing to do before you start searching for the dress is to understand your body type and the silhouettes that are best suited for you. You want to focus on quality and fit!!! It is important to invest in alterations and to choose quality fabrics that will make you feel great.

                                          Body Shape Calculator

Fashion can be like a fickle friend, always changing with new styles and colors trending, but most weddings call for that classic touch. The style dilemma is to rock the latest trends or embrace timeless sophistication. This can be a tough call, especially when we want to look chic without stepping out of line. Finding that sweet spot between fashionable and timeless is a common fashion conundrum. This is where the overall theme of the wedding comes into play and can influence whether a modern or classic look is best. For example, a trendy gown may fit beautifully with a contemporary wedding in a museum or art gallery, while a timeless dress might suit more traditional settings like a country club, banquet hall or hotel.

Remember:

1. Start Early: Give yourself plenty of time to explore styles and colors. I recommend starting your search at least 6 months prior to the wedding. This will allow time for alterations if needed. 
2. Consult the Bride and Groom: Communication is key. This helps align your choices with their wedding vision. 
3. Get a Style Sidekick: Don’t shy away from a stylist! We’ve got the scoop on what styles and colors will make you shine.
4. Focus on Fit and Comfort: Make sure the dress fits like a glove and your shoes are comfy too. You’ll be rocking it and them for hours!
5. Stay True to Yourself: While it’s great to consider opinions, sometimes we ask to many people what they think and move away from what we really like, REMEMBER to pick a dress that makes YOU feel like a million bucks.

The journey to find that perfect gown for your child’s wedding can be a whirlwind of emotions and practical challenges. But with some planning, a dash of expert advice and a commitment to your unique style, finding a dress that’s not just stunning but genuinly leaves also celebrates the love and family spirit of the day. After all, weddings are all about love and moms deserve to sparkle in their own amazing way!

To set up your free thirty-minute consultation to learn how virtual styling can help you in your search for the perfect gown.