Even if your family typically does not engage in many family traditions, be sure to find out what family traditions his family will want. Family traditions can really range from the simple to the elaborate, depending on culture, heritage, and social status.

Cultural Traditions

Your daughter could be marrying the next-door neighbor's son or someone from a far off land. No matter whom she is marrying, be sure to embrace not only him but his family's cultural traditions. If his family is quiet and reserved and does not want to include the traditions, don't push the subject. However, if his family is excited about the tradition, be sure to put the effort into learning more about his culture and their wedding traditions as soon as possible.

Depending on his background and the choices of your daughter and your soon-to-be son-in-law, his culture could very well change the entire landscape of the wedding. Some couples prefer a blending of cultures, and some love to focus on just one. Be sure to accept and support their choice.

Other Traditions

You may dislike some of the traditions that his family wants to incorporate in the wedding. For example, you may hate the garter toss, but his family has the garter that his great grandmother used at her wedding. Or you may have dreamed of fresh flowers on top of the cake and not his mother's cake topper from her dream wedding. Always go back to rule number one: If it makes the couple happy, it should make you happy.

In the end, most of the traditions are symbols of two families coming together. Stay helpful and open-minded, and you will ensure a positive experience for the bride and groom.