What’s Expected of the Best Man?

As the wedding day approaches, the role of a Best Man and his Groomsmen moves into the spotlight, all cloaked in tradition and camaraderie. Many wonder what it truly means to stand beside the Groom during this important chapter in his life. Through equal parts honour and duty, a Best Man’s role is pivotal to the wedding’s success and the Groom’s morale. So on an important day such as this, what’s expected of the Best Man?

What Does it Mean to be a Best Man?

Being a Groomsman is an honour bestowed upon the closest friends and family of the groom, reflecting trust and camaraderie. Being a Best Man is the most important role out of all the group. These select individuals are part of the Groom’s inner circle and play a pivotal role in both the wedding planning process and the actual events surrounding the nuptials. More than just participants, the Best Man and the Groomsmen are there to provide moral support, help mitigate any challenges, and ensure that the Groom’s wedding day experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Understanding Your Role

As the Best Man, it’s your job to keep the Groom in check. Make sure he is okay physically and mentally and ensure he feels the best he possibly can.  There are a few small basics you can cover to make his day even easier.

• Organise Events: Help plan and organise events such as the bachelor party, rehearsal dinner, and any other pre-wedding activities.
• Logistics: Assist with logistics on the wedding day, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
• Keep in order: keep the rest of the Groomsmen organised so they know their roles.

Going the Extra Mile

• Communication: Keep an open line of communication with the Groom. Make sure he knows he can rely on you for anything.
• Problem-Solving: Be ready to step in and solve any problems that arise, whether it’s a minor wardrobe malfunction or a major logistical hiccup.

Pre-Wedding Responsibilities

There are a few things before the big day that will need planning and that is the Best Man’s job!

Planning the Bachelor Party

• Know the Groom: Tailor the party to the Groom’s interests. Whether it’s a wild night out or a low-key gathering, make sure it’s something he’ll enjoy. We all know what goes on at stag nights – but make sure it will be exactly what the Groom wants and not the rest of the party!
• Coordinate with Other Groomsmen: Work together to plan and execute the event. Delegate tasks to ensure everything is covered.
• Budgeting: Keep track of expenses and make sure everyone is on board with the budget.

Attire and Accessories

• Suit Fittings: Attend suit fittings and ensure your attire is ordered and tailored in a timely manner.
• Accessories: Don’t forget the details like shoes, ties, cufflinks, buttonholes and any other accessories that complement the wedding theme.

Emotional Support

Everyone gets wedding day wobbles, it’s a big day and it is perfectly normal to feel nervous. It’s up to the Best Man along with the rest of the Groomsmen to help the Groom relax.

Pre-Wedding Nerves

• Be a Listener: Sometimes, the best support you can offer is a listening ear. Let the Groom discuss his anxieties and offer reassurance.
• Stress Relief: Encourage activities that help alleviate stress, such as sports, gaming, or a casual hangout.

Day-of Nerves

• Positive Vibes: Keep the mood light and positive on the wedding day. Your energy will help keep the groom calm.
• Practical Help: Assist with any last-minute needs, whether it’s tying a tie, finding misplaced items, or offering a pep talk.

On the Wedding Day

Before the Ceremony

• Timelines: Ensure you and the other Groomsmen are on time for all pre-wedding activities.
• Assist with Setup: Help with any setup tasks that need to be done, such as arranging the ceremony site or preparing the reception area.

During the Ceremony

• Support the Groom: Stand by the Groom’s side, offering silent support. Be attentive to any cues that might require your assistance.
• Handle Rings: Take responsibility for the wedding rings and ensure they’re safely delivered to the officiant.

After the Ceremony

• Photos: Work along with the Maid of Honour to participate in wedding photos promptly, keeping the schedule on track.
• Guest Assistance: Help guide guests to the reception area and assist with any immediate needs.

Reception Responsibilities

Speeches and Toasts

• Prepare in Advance: If you’re giving a speech or toast, prepare it well in advance. Practice it many times to ensure it’s heartfelt, concise, funny and appropriate. Maybe even learn a lot of it so you only need cards to refer to rather than a full sheet to read from.
• Stay Sober: Keep alcohol consumption in check until after your responsibilities are complete.
• Keep it relevant!: The Best Man’s speech normally has a lot of pressure to be funny. Just try not to take the Groom down to do this. Remember funny anecdotes that you would all laugh about, but try to never embarrass him or his Bride. You don’t want your speech to be remembered for the wrong reasons!

Assisting the Groom

• Monitor the Groom: Make sure the Groom is enjoying himself and not getting overwhelmed.
• Dance Floor: Encourage the Groom to hit the dance floor and enjoy the reception.

Conclusion

Being a Best Man or Groomsman is a significant responsibility, but it’s also a great experience to play such an important role in the day. By being proactive, supportive, and reliable, you’ll not only help make his wedding day a success but also strengthen your love and friendship. Embrace the role with enthusiasm and dedication, and you’ll create lasting memories for yourself and the Groom.

Get In Touch!

We hope you now know more of what’s expected of the Best Man. Additionally, if you are after some advice on your wedding planning we would be more than happy to guide you in the right direction. Call the team on 01323 848 006 and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Our thanks go to all the amazing photographers who have supplied us with all of these photographs. Please see the main case studies for the specific names.