Photo Credit: found on cactuscreekdaily.com
Q: I am the groom’s father. His mother and I are divorced and both remarried. Most of the groom’s guests are from out of town (family). The reception seating chart has the groom’s mother, her husband and two younger children seated with me, my wife and our two younger children. Is this not just a bit tacky?
A: This is exactly right. While you may no longer be married, you and your ex-wife will always be your son’s parents. If there was a difficult situation (if one of you had not remarried or if one had cheated on the other resulting in the divorce) then you would not be seated together. But if that is not the case, I am sure you and your ex-wife can put aside your differences for a few hours for the sake of your son. Keep in mind; you only need to sit for the actual meal. Other than that, you should be mingling. Welcoming your family and introducing yourself to your new daughter-in-law’s friends and family. Take the high road. Your younger children will learn from your example and your son will be forever grateful.
Jodi R. R. Smith is a nationally known etiquette expert and author. She is the president of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting. You are invited to email her your etiquette emergencies at Salem@Mannersmith.com
Website: Mannersmith.com
Jodi Smith is an etiquette advocate and has been promoting better behaviors since 1986. Her business, Mannersmith, launched in January 1996. Jodi holds a bachelor’s degree in motivational psychology from the University of Rochester and a master’s degree from Cornell University. She consults to organizations, corporations, educational institutions and individuals on a variety of topics, including dining skills, office etiquette, professional protocol and wedding preparations. Jodi is sought out by the media for her no-nonsense approach to etiquette. Jodi has been seen on the NBC Today Show, Good Morning America and on the CBS Early Show. She has been quoted in the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal and USA Today. She has been a featured guest on radio shows including Martha Stewart Living and the BBC. She is also the author of two etiquette books and currently writing her third. Jodi is well known among her clients for her educational and entertaining style.