But why is it that weddings seem to heighten our emotions and enable us to push our personal issues on the bride and groom?

I know several young couples planning to marry this summer, and I'm continuously amazed as they share their stories of wedding planning grief. One young lady's parents refuse to attend her wedding if her sister isn't the maid of honor. Another young lass's parents are boldly voicing their disdain over the amount of money they are forking out in comparison to the groom's parents.

Still another mother called the bridal couple in the middle of the night screeching about the wording of the shower invitations, even though she is not even hosting the event.

I imagine parents feel a sense of obligation to put on the best show for their friends and family. But the stress of doing so inevitably takes it's toll on the bridal couple.

Then there is the awkwardness of trying to please everyone in the wedding party. It seems there are no boundaries for criticism, which ranges from bridesmaids bickering and complaining about their attire, to disapproval of the location and menu. One bride left a reception hall crying because the soon to be mother in law insisted the reception would be a disaster if the napkins weren't the right color.

Here's my point…If you are invited to a wedding this summer, or asked to participate in a couple's ceremony in any way, please remove your own personal thoughts and opinions from their plans. Simply put, it is not your day.

A wedding is a celebration, a proclamation of love and commitment. It is a sacred moment shared between couples, one they will reflect back on for many, many years.

When my husband I married, we decided to elope and avoid the hassles of formal weddings. Out of consideration for our immediate family, we invited them to our simple ceremony. Unfortunately, my sister in law threw a temper tantrum because the day was not convenient for her. We ended up telling her if it was going to cause her this much stress, she probably shouldn't come.

Guests are just that, guests. Whether you are the father of the bride, an attendant, or a friend, your invitation reads the same, "Please join us in our celebration." No where does it say, "Please respond with your approval/disapproval."

So I beg of you, if you know someone who is getting married, offer them your support and confidence in their planning efforts. Let them know your hearts and thoughts extend only as far as their happiness. Don't interfere or push your ideas onto them. Let them arrange their event to reflect their own personalities. Stand back and appreciate the opportunity to witness their love for one another. And most of all, be grateful you were asked to be a part of their moment.

It is not a right or an expectation to be involved in anyone's wedding. It is an honor and a privilege. To disrespect the bride or groom with unwanted and unwarranted contributions is disgraceful, especially since all they really want is the gift of your blessing.

Embrace the festivities with an open heart and an open mind, remembering that it is their love for you that brought you to the wedding. After all if you weren't a valued friend or family member, you wouldn't be invited.