Say what you will about our society. It's still generally daddy signing the checks. And, aside from his signature, there's precious little else in the way of his contributions that will be tolerated. Don't blame her mother. Men's chromosomes decide the gender of the child; it's our fault.

There is, however, something of traditional importance that overshadows even the expense. I am talking about the father of the bride speeches. Everyone is cloistered together, the ceremony has run its course and there are bubbly drinks everywhere.

Anyone will tell you that this whole thing has, for the most part, been for her. Maybe for her mother, too, a little bit. However, as you raise that glass and look at a married couple where previously there was just your daughter and the guy who was whisking her away, I want you to remember that this moment is, just a little bit, for you.