Attendants and Guests

What's My Stepmom's Role?

What's a stepmother's role in her stepchild's wedding?

A stepmother (like a stepfather) doesn't have a set-in-stone role in the wedding—she can be treated like a second mother when the relationship between her and her stepchild is close, or she can be treated like a regular guest. Base your stepmother's role on what makes the most sense for you and your parents. Sometimes stepmothers are escorted down the aisle with the rest of the mothers—although they're usually the first to be seated—then sit in the front row. Others sit and mingle just like any other guest (but with your father by her side).

As for attire, she should wear something similar to what the other moms are wearing. But to keep the peace, she should avoid wearing the same shade as the mothers of the bride and groom, or anything that's too revealing. (Both choices come off as if she's trying to upstage someone, even if that's not the case.) In most situations, the stepmother should be honored with a corsage.