UPDATE on forcing my parents to be on time for my wedding ?
Who knew that a wedding could become a battleground for punctuality? In this update, our OP reveals the hilarious fallout from her creative scheme to force her chronically late parents to show up on time for her wedding. Over the past two years, she’s playfully tricked them into being on time—albeit at the cost of some harsh words and a few family grudges.
With her church hosting multiple weddings every Saturday during the busy summer season, timing was everything. Determined to prove her point, she set up a betting pool for kisses based on how late her parents were, raising almost $1,500 for her honeymoon. Although her mother still insists she was just being a dick, the OP now sees her prank as a win-win for everyone involved.
Her update adds a new twist to an already colorful wedding tale, showing how a little mischief can highlight family quirks and perhaps even spark lasting changes—or at least memorable stories to share at future weddings.
This OP : AITA For tricking my parents into being on time for my wedding?
‘UPDATE on forcing my parents to be on time for my wedding?’
Relationship expert Dr. John Gottman explains, “Family events often magnify our individual quirks. When you set playful boundaries, like encouraging punctuality through a light-hearted bet, you’re not only communicating your expectations but also inviting everyone to laugh at a shared challenge.”
In this case, the OP’s approach to dealing with her parents’ chronic lateness was both creative and, admittedly, a bit cutting. By turning tardiness into a game with a financial twist, she managed to inject humor into an otherwise frustrating situation. Experts like Dr. Gottman suggest that when family dynamics are laced with habitual behavior that disrupts important events, innovative strategies can help reset expectations.
“When you publicly set a challenge, you create a social contract—even if it’s just in jest,” he adds. While the approach may have embarrassed her mom, it also provided a clear message about the importance of respecting schedules in a busy, multi-wedding environment. Dr. Gottman notes that “clear, consistent communication—even if delivered in a humorous way—can help adjust long-standing behaviors.”
Although not every family member may appreciate the method, the OP’s stunt is a reflection of her frustration and determination to reclaim control over her special day. In balancing humor with accountability, she not only entertained her guests but also sparked a conversation about expectations that could, in the long run, lead to healthier, more punctual family gatherings. Ultimately, her strategy shows that sometimes a little tough love—and a betting pool—can go a long way in turning family flaws into fond, if cheeky, memories.
Check out how the community responded:
Many redditors applauded the OP’s ingenuity, with one commenting that “if being on time was a sport, she just made her parents Olympic-level competitors.” Another user noted that her prank was a clever way to turn a family annoyance into extra honeymoon cash, while some sympathized with her mom’s embarrassment but still agreed that a little tough love goes a long way. A few even joked that the betting pool might become a family tradition at every wedding.
Ultimately, the OP’s decision to force her chronically late parents to face the music wasn’t about being mean—it was about reclaiming control over her wedding day and making a statement about the importance of punctuality. Her playful yet pointed approach not only raised funds for her honeymoon but also created memorable moments that may well influence future family events.
What would you do if your family’s quirks were ruining your big day? Have you ever turned a frustration into a fun, unforgettable moment? Share your thoughts and experiences below—let’s discuss how to balance family love with a touch of necessary tough love.