To the mom's, too much cleavage is not a good thing! This is in fact and eye-catching fashion mistake and outrageous reputation that the mother of the groom has somehow earned.

"The moms need to accept the planning role assigned to them, make herself a priceless addition to the team by keeping the big picture in mind - the couple's happiness - and appreciate that she's a part of this momentous event at all." said Sharon Naylor, a wedding industry expert and author.

Once there is an engagement ring in play, even the most well-intentioned act can be misunderstood. You're thrilled about the news and want to shout it to the world - or at least call your sister. Don't. The couple may want to do the telling - check with the bride and groom, asking if you can share the good news and who they'd like you to call.

Grooms' moms should be prepared to have the couple consider their input, although not necessarily accept their ideas. A practical approach is to offer your help and inform the couple of your strengths.

Do:
Call the bride's mother after the engagement and arrange for the families to meet. Traditionally, the bride's family throws an engagement party, but if you're not in the same geographical area, the groom's family may host its own celebration - after checking with the engaged couple about their final guest list.

Let your relatives and friends know where the couple has registered.

Check with the mother of the bride on what she is wearing to the wedding.

Have a few suggestions ready for your son when he asks which song you would like to dance to with him - unless he chooses the song.

If you're asked to help with certain tasks, be reliable, punctual and organized.

Provide objective comments when asking and defer to the couple's wishes.

Do everything you can to develop a healthy relationship with your daughter or son-in-law's family.

Act as hostess to guests from the groom's side at the rehearsal dinner, shower, engagement party and wedding by introducing them to the bride's family. Make everyone feel like one big happy family.

Don't:

When choosing your gown, dress appropriately: Think collarbone, not cleavage. Pick a color that will go with the theme of wedding colors, not one that will make you stand out.

Don't put your son, the groom, in the middle of conflicts between you and the bride or your family and her family.

Don't take on more responsibility than you can handle.

Tradition trumps finances - the names of the bride's parents always come first on the invitation if both sets of parents are hosting the wedding, even if the groom's family contributes more money.

Don't feel hurt if your ideas aren't accepted or opinions are not agreed with.

Don't leave out the father of the groom.

*****
By Paula Ganzi Licata, Featurewell.com
From: the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, 2/19/2006
This post is shorter then the original story.