Emily Gilmore is Lorelai's mother. They have a rocky relationship as Lorelai thinks Emily is overbearing and manipulative. She is married to Richard. Towards the end of S4 they become separated and this continues on into S5. They have a vow renewal celebration once they are back together. She is active in the DAR and many other charitable committees in Hartford. She plans numerous social gatherings throughout the series, including Rory's 16th and 21st birthday parties.