Bros Before Wedding Woes: A Basic Guide to Groomsmen Duties

by Chris Bajda April 02, 2019

Groomsmen Duties

A groomsman in England has made international news after a photo taken during the wedding caught him not-so-discretely checking out the bride.

Talk about a party foul! Even a rookie groomsman would be sure not to get caught in the act.

Whether you're a seasoned groomsman or it's your first time, it's always a good idea to brush up on groomsmen responsibilities. There's much more to being a groomsman than being a hype man at your pal's reception.

Keep reading to learn more about groomsmen duties and how to be the best groomsman you can be.

The Importance of Groomsmen Duties

It's a real honor to be chosen by your friend or family member to stand next to them as they begin the best chapter of their life.

Popular dudes have a long list of bros to choose from and somehow, you made the cut!

You don't want to make them regret choosing you by not being prepared. Your job is to take stress off the groom and help him get ready for his big day.

Yes, there will be plenty of partying, but you also have a job to do. Understanding your role and responsibilities will ensure you feel confident rocking that tux and supporting your best bud.

Helping Plan the Bachelor Party

One of the most exciting parts of being a groomsman is attending the bachelor party.

It's one big night of fun and a send-off to your friend as he begins his new life with the partner of his dreams.

However, as a groomsman, you have additional duties to perform. Nailing this job will solidify your reputation as a top choice for the groomsman in all your friends' weddings.

If you're the best man, this party is yours to plan. Take the lead and plan a night the groom and his party won't forget...or won't remember.

As a traditional groomsman, your role in planning the bachelor party is no less important. You are responsible for helping the best man plan the event.

This is your chance to share your opinion and suggest the best activities, bars, restaurants, and destinations.

On the night of the actual party, show up well dressed and with a positive attitude. This night is for the groom and he values his time spent with you.

Be prepared to either pay your own bill after the party or split the bill with the rest of the groomsmen party. You will also be expected to contribute towards paying the groom's share.

Dress to Impress

You will be in charge of your wedding day outfit.

You may assemble this outfit yourself, rent it, or purchase whatever it is you need. Regardless, you are expected to look your best and make sure the outfit is properly tailored in time for the big day.

The groom (read: the bride) will choose the style of outfits the groomsmen party will wear. You will either need to order this outfit online or visit your local tux rental shop.

Sometimes, the best man will place a group order since most weddings feature matching outfits for the groomsmen. In this case, all you need to do is get measured and provide the measurements to the best man.

If the tuxedo is in your possession prior to the event, make sure it stays clean and wrinkle-free. If you are renting your outfit, take special care of it throughout the wedding and reception.

Attend Pre-Wedding Events

The wedding itself is only one of many events groomsmen are expected to attend.

The wedding is more of a grand finale in a series of parties. These events include the engagement party, a couples shower, the bachelor party, and usually a rehearsal dinner the night before the big day.

Not all couples will hold all of these events, but it's best to be prepared.

Not all groomsmen will attend all of these events. Some friends and family will live far away from the wedding location, and that's okay.

You will not be expected to attend every event if you are not a local. Your presence on the wedding day is enough for the groom.

If you do live in town, you should make every effort to attend every event. You are there to support your friend, after all.

The most important events to attend are the rehearsal dinner and the wedding/reception. If you are the best man, it is crucial that you attend these events. You will probably be expected to give speeches at the rehearsal and reception and possibly other events.

If you are a regular groomsman, you may still be asked to give a speech or toast at the reception or rehearsal. Don't panic, the groom will appreciate your attendance and support regardless of your public speaking abilities.

Give an Awesome Gift

In your groomsman role, you will be expected to give a wedding gift to the bride and groom.

You can review the couple's registry, or you can make or buy a gift for them that is more unique. If you are the creative type, an original gift will mean the world to the newlyweds.

If you want, you can go in with other groomsmen on a more expensive item.

Don't be afraid to think outside of the box with your gift. If the groom has a good sense of humor, he will appreciate a witty gift.

Personalized gifts are always a good idea when it comes to giving gifts to those you love.

You will likely also receive a gift from the groom as a thank-you for providing your groomsman services. Forgetting to get the groom a gift could land you in hot water with his new bride!

Gift Box Set

 

Duties on the Big Day

When the big day finally arrives, it's game on for the groomsmen. (If you survived the bachelor party, that is.)

You will be expected to help the groomsmen party and the guests throughout the day. It's essential that you are prepared and ready for action.

Often, the groomsmen will be responsible for helping the wedding party decorate the couple's getaway car. This might happen the night before the wedding or the day of the wedding.

Get a good night's sleep, set your alarm on time, and bring your outfit in pristine condition to the wedding venue. The groom will probably be freaking out, so it's your job to have your stuff together.

Arrive at the wedding venue at least a half hour early, but be prepared to be called upon before this. Groomsmen might be asked to run errands or get food for the groom or the wedding party prior to the ceremony.

Prior to the ceremony, groomsmen are often used as ushers to help seat the guests. After this, you will likely walk down the aisle with a member of the bridal party or one of the bride's family members.

This will be explained at the rehearsal, don't worry!

Dance the Night Away

After the wedding ceremony, you will probably accompany the newlyweds to take photos of the wedding party.

This can often take hours and seem tedious, but keep smiling! The groom will return the favor when it's your special day.

Finally, you will enter the reception, probably with the bridesmaid from the wedding. You might be asked to make a grand entrance, so practice your best dance moves and plan something unforgettable with the lucky lady on your arm.

You might be asked a lot of questions by guests since you are a member of the groomsmen party. Familiarize yourself with the venue and be as helpful as you can.

The groom will probably be focused on his new bride, so this is a time for you to step up and help ensure the event runs smoothly.

This is a time you might be asked to make a toast, but you will have practiced this already. Just relax and have fun. After all, this is your time to shine on the dance floor. You might be asked to participate in special dances, but don't be shy!

After all of the work you put in leading up to this event, it's okay to have some drinks and hype up the crowd. Remember, out of all the cool bros in the groom's life, he chose you!

Stay aware of any opportunities for groomsmen responsibilities and celebrate the new journey the groom has begun.

Be Prepared and Have Fun

The best thing you can do to prepare for your role as a groomsman is to understand the most important groomsmen duties and be prepared.

Other than that, it's about having fun and supporting the groom and the best man. If you are the best man, you may have some additional duties.

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is getting the groom a terrible gift. The gift you give the groom will be one he will remember forever. Make sure the gift is thoughtful and personal.

For more ideas on groomsmen gifts visit our blog or for great gift ideas visit our shop.

 



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