Weddings should be one of the happiest days of your life—but when you have a narcissistic parent, they often become a masterclass in manipulation, guilt-tripping, and sabotage.

(For 1 on 1 online counselling in your own toxic relationship/narcissistic abuse recovery please visit my website at
https://brighteroutlookcounselling.com.au/online-counselling-services/ )

 In this episode, we’re unpacking the emotionally exhausting tactics narcissistic mothers, fathers, or in-laws use to hijack your big day and make it all about them.

Order my best-selling book, Fake Love, here 🫴 https://mybook.to/F3gm

From passive-aggressive comments during the engagement, to dress code drama, unsolicited planning control, and even last-minute emotional meltdowns—this episode explores the subtle and not-so-subtle ways narcissistic parents attempt to stay centre stage. We’ll also dive into how they use weddings to maintain power, enforce control through financial strings, and stir conflict between you and your partner or in-laws.

If you've ever felt like your wedding was more about managing someone else’s ego than celebrating your love, you’re not alone. This episode also explores why your partner may not see the manipulation, how trauma bonding and childhood conditioning can create blind spots, and the emotional impact of facing smear campaigns or guilt after the wedding is over.

Whether you’re planning a wedding, reflecting on one that didn’t go as planned, or trying to support someone in this exact situation, this episode offers deep insight into narcissistic family dynamics, emotional abuse, and the psychology behind sabotage during milestone events.

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Please remember the information in this episode is not intended to substitute for therapy is general and strictly the opinions of the host.

Nova xx