Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
My father is deceased. My mother has been with her significant other for almost 20 years. I love him dearly, and I respect him because he has never tried to overstep and act as a step-father since he knows how close I was to my father. He is special to me and we are close. Since he is an important part of our family, I want to include him in our wedding program with my mother's listing.
He is a very young and active octogenarian, and the terms escort or significant "other" seem to diminish who he is.
Any suggestions for alternate terminology?
Thank you.
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on May 17, 2008, 5:21 PM)
Etiquette Now
WEDDING ETIQUETTE EXPERT
May 17, 2008, 6:41 PM
Post #2 of 8
(781 views)
Re: [Marillian] Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
[In reply to]
Dear Marillian,
Honestly, I can't think of any other designation since he isn't her husband. You could simple list his name, but there should be some sort of reason why he is with your mother. This is why we incorporate some sort of 'label' with the person. Escort or significant other are the only titles I can think of that are appropriate. Hot date may not go over well.
It is wonderful that you two have a great relationship. This must make your mother very happy.
Re: [Etiquette Now] Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
[In reply to]
Thank you again for your time in replying. I'd never heard of it before, but to me, it just seems to makes it more "familial". After all, he has been her loving companion for nearly 20 years. Perhaps the phrase will catch on!
Marillian
TWQadmin
FORUM EXPERT
/ Moderator
May 18, 2008, 10:25 AM
Post #6 of 8
(763 views)
Re: [Marillian] Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
[In reply to]
If this man acted "like a father" to you all those years, shouldn't he be recognized as a father figure though? To me, the word companion designates him as being supportive of your mother and not really relating to your relationship. Maybe ask him and your mom what title they see for him?
My husband died when my kids were very young and they now have a man in their lives whom they love and call stepfather which does not diminish their relationship with their father or interfere with his memory. Just my 2 cents. Top Wedding Questions Forum Moderator - "Write your sorrows in the sand, your blessings in stone".
Marillian
May 18, 2008, 11:16 AM
Post #7 of 8
(761 views)
Re: [TWQadmin] Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
[In reply to]
Thank you again. I should have clarified my situation a bit better.
My father died when I was in my 30's. My mother's S.O. is not a father figure to me. Since they have been together for so long, I do consider him part of the family. However, he had nothing to do in raising me, nor has he ever financially supported me.
When I say he and I are close, it's more a friendship. I love him for being that friend and moreso for loving my mother. So, you really are correct in indicating that he is more supportive of my mother than myself.
TWQadmin
FORUM EXPERT
/ Moderator
May 18, 2008, 11:28 AM
Post #8 of 8
(758 views)
Re: [Marillian] Listing MOB's Significant Other in the Wedding Program
[In reply to]
Thanks for clarifying. Makes sense. Most times we assume brides are in their 20's and 30's. I know, I know...what happens when you assume right? Top Wedding Questions Forum Moderator - "Write your sorrows in the sand, your blessings in stone".
(This post was
edited by TWQadmin on May 18, 2008, 11:30 AM)