Once your daughter is proudly wearing that wedding band, it’s time to breathe, enjoy a glass of wine and dance like proud parents should. Remember, it will be fine if some kinks creep up throughout the wedding. We guarantee no one will even notice.

Here is your fabulous plan to make sure you enjoy yourself all night long and secure some good graces along they way.

EAT BEFORE YOU GO

There’s a good chance, once the time comes, that you’ll either be too busy or excited to take more than a bite or two — but nothing makes it harder to handle stressful moments and to socialize than a blood-sugar dip. We’ve heard of many smart moms who pack a healthy pick-me-up (almonds, energy bars) for nourishment on the way to the reception. And don’t forget to sample those tasty hors d’oeuvres you helped select. Even if you don’t finish your main course, at least you’ll have something in your stomach.

GIVE THEM SOMETHING TO TALK ABOUT

Spend as much time as possible mingling and catching up with old friends and family members. Introduce people you think may get along; ask people to come with you onto the dance floor. A successful wedding is one where no one wants to leave and everyone is having fun. And if you’re enjoying yourself, guests will follow your lead.

DEPEND ON YOUR MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE’S MAIDS

Our best advice? Recruit mother-of-the-bride’s maids. As the bride’s mom, you’re surely going to want to deal with every detail so your daughter doesn’t have to. You might ask one friend to keep an eye on your frisky Uncle Jim, or to encourage people to dance. You get the picture. Relying on others for small roles can free you up to focus on the bigger stuff — like having a ball.

SPEND TIME WITH YOUR HUBBY

You’ve probably been so preoccupied supporting your daughter all these months that your darling spouse has been left hanging out to dry. Show him that your preoccupation with planning was worth it and take a few spins with him on the dance floor, or steal away for a quiet moment together. Catch a glimpse of your daughter and congratulate each other on a job well done.

KVELL

Imagine this: The cake is late, Great-Aunt Martha is complaining that there have been too many toasts and suddenly you’re feeling a little frazzled. You’ll have to stop. Breathe. Breathe again. Take in the beautiful room, the chattering guests. Notice how your daughter is smiling at your new son-in-law. Smile as you revel in your pride and happiness. Spend one full minute letting these feelings wash over you.

This is “kvelling” — and as a mom, you’re naturally good at it. You’ll be able to resume attending to details, calmer and a whole lot less crazed.

WELCOME THE IN-LAWS

Now that your two families are bonded by this union, open your arms to them. Make sure you plan a dance with your new son-in-law; spend a moment or two with the groom’s parents swapping stories of preceremony jitters and extend yourself to the groom’s entire family. All it takes is a simple smile and a heartfelt hug.

TWIRL TO SPECIAL TUNES

Even if your husband is around, why not start your own trend with a mother-daughter dance? It’s a wonderful moment for the two of you to catch up amid the spinning revelry. Find great song ideas at TheKnot.com/moms. If you’re looking for a really sentimental touch, at some point during the party (the earlier the better) ask the band to play each set of parents’ first dance songs.

TAKE A BATHROOM BREAK

Throughout the night, plan on visiting the loo to make sure that your makeup still looks good, that your hair’s perfectly set and that you’ve got it all together. A brief bathroom respite in the middle of the reception may be just what’s needed to revive your glamorous look, boost your confidence, and help you to keep mingling.

SKIP THE APOLOGIES

Worried that you’ll have to say “Sorry” to your husband’s mother because her sister wasn’t invited? Or apologize to Aunt Joan because your daughter hasn’t managed to mail her thank-yous for engagement gifts given months ago? We have one word for you: Don’t.

There’s a time and a place for everything — and this isn’t it. Instead, prepare for your time with each guest to smile and thank him or her graciously for coming. Let it all go and have a good time together.

SPREAD THE LOVE

Toasting has a special place at every wedding: heartfelt words make guests feel welcomed and the couple elated. While not strictly tradition for the mother of the bride to speak, it’s becoming more common. (Be sure to clear your moment with your daughter first.) Maybe your husband’s not the toasting type, but he’ll stand by your side as you speak from both of your hearts. Or you can share the duties. Whatever makes you both comfortable is best.

Just remember to address the bride and groom specifically, have something simple and quick prepared to say, include all the guests in the toast and instruct everyone at the end to raise their glasses and take a sip in celebration.

A MOTHER-OF-THE-BRIDE EMERGENCY KIT

You’re focused on making sure your daughter has everything she could possibly need, but what about you? Don’t forget to pack these wedding-day essentials in your purse.

¢ A snack

¢ Tissues or a handkerchief

¢ Blotting papers

¢ Lipstick (If the makeup artist used a special shade, ask if you can purchase it.)

¢ Band-Aids (for those killer heels)

¢ Aspirin

¢ Breath mints or gum