Help with Parent introductions at reception

Kerigirl9

FMIL lost her husband of 35 years recently (in February). FI feels that introducing her at the reception and having her walk in alone will make her uncomfortable and sad (which obviously we want to avoid). He also does not want his father acknowledged/introduced as they do not have a close relationship. I do, however, want my parents to be introduced and enter the reception prior to the bridal party. They are paying for nearly the entire event and I want to make sure they are acknowledged as my parents and as the hosts of the event.

How can we acknowledge FMIL in a way that makes her feel included but not uncomfortable or as an afterthought?

huskypuppy14

Does your FI have a sibling that could escort his mother into the reception?

Kerigirl9

He has three sisters but none of them are in the WP.

syoun1nj

huskypuppy14 said:

Does your FI have a sibling that could escort his mother into the reception?

Or an uncle/family friend/etc? My MIL walked in by herself to the reception (in the processional she walked with my mother), but, there wasn't any of the fresh pain for her. SHe was divorced when husband was young and her ex husband (FIL) was not invited.

CMGragain

We paid for daughter's wedding, and we were hosting, so there was no need for us to be introduced at the reception. DH gave the welcome speech.  Have you thought about having a receiving line after the ceremony?  Your FMIL would meet all of your guests during this.
I have seen the bridal couple announced at reception, but not the parents.

huskypuppy14

Or she could be introduced at her seat. We did this for my grandmother. Why don't you ask your FMIL what she would prefer. 

NYCMercedes

I recommend you not have parents introduced. First, I've only seen it done just once. Second, it's awkward with your MIL's recent loss. People will know who she is from the ceremony processional. Lastly, all the introductions delay dinner. Instead, ask your parents to welcome everybody and thank them for coming.

huskypuppy14

NYCMercedes said:

I recommend you not have parents introduced. First, I've only seen it done just once. Second, it's awkward with your MIL's recent loss. People will know who she is from the ceremony processional. Lastly, all the introductions delay dinner. Instead, ask your parents to welcome everybody and thank them for coming.

This is not a bad idea considering your situation OP. I still recommend asking your FMIL what she wants.

However, parent introductions are always done in my circle. Pretty much all the weddings I've been to have the parents and bridal party introduced.  I went to a wedding of some good friend a few years ago, and the groom's dad had died about 6 months prior. His mother was still introduced.

OliveOilsMom

Are your parents hosting the wedding?  Perhaps once everyone settles in for dinner, after your introduction.  The DJ can just acknowledge your parents for hosting the evening?  And then if you dad wants to give a welcome toast, he can do so now. 

But check with FMIL to see what she feels comfortable with.  It sounds like FFIL is not going to be doing and of the FOG duties like be seated during the processional.  So he may not even be expecting to be announced prior to the reception.

Kerigirl9

Looks like we have a winner. Mom and Dad are happy being introduced by the DJ as the hosts of the event before the bridal party enters. FMIL will also be acknowledged at her seat. In my circle it's VERY common for the parents of the bride and groom to be introduced and walk into the reception prior to the wedding party.