Moving away from the days when the bride handled all of the wedding details, more grooms are getting involved in the planning process. There are a variety of ways for involvement of, not only the groom, but the groomsmen as well. The best way to collaborate on the planning is by first sitting down with your groom and asking him which ways he might like to contribute, rather than randomly assigning him tasks.
When essential tasks can be completed by bridal attendants and groomsmen, the wedding couple is free to focus on the details of the day, and each other. Reducing the stress prior to marriage is a gift in itself.
Below are five suggested ways of engaging the guys – including the groom!
Family Matters
The best approach to building your guest list is working together. The first part of this can be done separately, however, by assigning the groom to take charge of his side of the family (creating the list, determining those needing a special role during the ceremony or reception, family needing special accommodations, etc.). Before you send him off on his own, work together to select the target number of guests and the parameters by which you will invite. Once the guidelines are set, the bride and groom can each take responsibility for their respective side of the family. Then you can then compare lists, strategize together and developing seating assignments.
Team-Building
The groom’s right-hand, the Best Man, can play a vital role in building a “team approach” to getting the groom down the aisle. This begins with building camaraderie between all of the groomsmen, so when the big day arrives each is working in coordination with the other. This can be accomplished through pre-wedding events, such as the bachelor party or other small group outings. When the big day finally comes, the team is ready to make sure that the “boys” are dressed, well groomed and on time for the ceremony! Other duties may apply!
Managing the Checklist
The best man can be a constant reminder to the groom, making sure that the marriage certificate is picked up and brought to the service or assigned to one of the groomsmen for safe keeping during preparation. Other logistical tasks that might be on the groomsmen’s to-do list is delivering the bride’s ring to the best man on the wedding day; ensuring the gratuity for the officiant has been prepared and ready to be handed off following the vows; equipping the wedding party with plenty of tissues for distribution in the event many happy tears are being shed; and transporting guests to and from the venue as needed.
Dressing the Part
Many modern grooms are very willing and interested in selecting their own wedding attire and that of their entourage. A special emphasis should be placed on the groom, as standing out apart from the rest of his groomsmen is particularly important for him. This can be achieved with embellishments to his dress including: pinning on a more sophisticated flower, displaying a more elaborate tie knot, or sporting bolder items such as shoes or vest. Additional accessories might also include patterned socks, glossy lapels, bright pocket squares, or personalized cuff-links. For ideas on non-traditional groomsmen attire click here.
Salute the Happy Couple
Most importantly, BEST MAN – make sure your speech is ready to go!