Photo: Dear Wesleyann
So much is made about mothers of the engaged couple, but beyond writing checks, plus giving a speech and taking part in one dance, you'd think that dads take a back seat in the traditional wedding ceremony. But our Facebook readers shared stories proving that's not the case. Read some of the sweet ways real brides got their fathers involved in your nuptial celebrations.
"My father was my officiant (he's an Episcopal priest)! Also, he and my stepmom kept asking how they could help financially, so we asked them to plan the lunchtime reception. I gave them some special dietary requests and set 'em loose. My papa is an exceptional cook and my stepmom plans massive conventions for her job, so we knew the two of them would find something delicious, and they did. My friends still compliment the food, four years later." — Heather Y.
"A month before my wedding my dad was in a terrible quad accident, and I am just so glad he survived. He broke multiple bones and was unable to walk. On my wedding day, he was so determined to walk me down the aisle, he got up out if his wheelchair and grabbed his walker. He fought through the pain just so we could have that special moment." — Megan R.
"I put him to work on my invitations!" — Teresita S.
"My dad came up with the idea to do a flash mob for our father-daughter dance. It started out like a normal, slow father-daughter dance, then the music switched and a bunch of family and friends joined in for "Gangnam Style", followed by a conga line. It was a blast and the video is hilarious!" — Brianna W.
"My wedding is next year, but my stepfather will be walking me down the aisle. My father-in-law will be doing some emcee stuff, and I'll have a little photo of my dad on my bouquet so he can come down the aisle with me too, as he is only there in spirit." — Ebony M.
See More: Your Family & Your Budget: How to Handle Both When They're at Odds
"My parents decided to pay for the whole wedding, which was more than generous. My dad wanted there to be an open bar, and because of that, he wanted transportation to and from the hotel and reception site so no one had to drink and drive. He set the whole thing up. He helped us with favors, too. He home-brewed beer to give to our guests at the end of the night!" — Aubrey K.
"My dad was there when I picked out my wedding dress. I would look over at him every time I would try on a dress. And when I found the one, it was the expression on his face that sealed it." — Krystie C.
"He was our DJ!" — Emilia S.
Read more sweet stories on our Facebook page!
Jolène M. Bouchon is a regular contributor to Brides.com and a freelance writer.