Duties of The Best Man
Photo Credit: Taun Henderson Photography - @taunhendersonphotography
During the planning process, the best man is the right-hand man of the groom. He’s the bachelor party planner, ring holder, timekeeper, concierge for the groom on the wedding day, and is the point of contact for the groom’s family. He’s also a gift giver to the groom as well. Although, it may seem challenging, but it’s actually a lot of fun and can get a little expensive. The best man is also responsible for helping the groom put together his fit for the big day. Today, we put together the ultimate guide for all of the duties and responsibilities of the best man.
Plan the bachelor party of a lifetime. Whether you’re planning the ultimate guys trip to Las Vegas, yacht party in South Beach, or a themed party at an epic destination. The best man is in charge of planning the entire celebration. Of course the groomsmen will be contributing as well, however, the best man is the leader of the pack.
Buy the Groom a gift. Often times, grooms are gifted high-end bourbons, scotch, and timepieces as well. The best man is the one leading the group the groomsmen have decided to get a gift for the groom, the best man often leads the effort by collecting money and choosing the final gift.
Organize the groom’s outfit. The best man makes sure the groom’s outfit for the wedding day is ready. You also have to make sure you have the measurements of the groomsmen’s tuxedos/suits as well. This may include making sure the rest of the groomsmen have placed their orders and making sure their outfits are coordinating with the groom’s outfit.
Serve as a witness. This is one of your biggest duties as the best man. A marriage license requires two witnesses to sign, and its usually you and the maid of honor. The signing takes place right after the ceremony. Always be readily available for this and have a pen ready. After the two witnesses sign, the officiant will send the marriage license to the county clerks office, and the couple will receive their official marriage certificate.
Hold the wedding rings. Safekeeping the wedding rings until its time for the couple to exchange wedding vows is VITAL. You might even have to hold other accesories for the groom as well. For example: wallet, cellphone, etc.
Be present for all pre-wedding and post wedding events. You are expected to attend the rehearsal. Both ceremony and dinner rehearsal. No excuses. No exceptions. Greeting families members, close friends, and other members of the wedding party. This is the perfect time to get to know everybody. And you have to make sure everything is on track in regards to the time.
Give a best man speech. The best man is usually one of the first people on the floor to deliver a well-curated speech. The speech usually takes place during the reception. And there are times when the best man gives a speech during the rehearsal dinner as well. Toast to the newlyweds!
Welcome the guests. Pay attention to everything that is going on around you at both the ceremony and reception. The best man is the closest friend and/or brother to the groom. Most likely, they know a majority of the guests that will be in attendance. So if you see, the groom or bride’s grandmother need help finding their seat, or a family member had too much to drink, make sure it is handled accordingly doesn’t cause a disturbance on the big day. Be as gracious and helpful as possible. And always make sure the newlyweds are having the time of their life. Keep them champagne glasses full.
Keep everybody on schedule. You’re the official timekeeper and time enforcer. Make sure the groom and the groomsmen get to the venue on time. That includes the pre-wedding activities (rehearsals, bachelor party flights, pictures, etc). Once you receive the timeline from the wedding planner and/or the groom, know it like the back of your hand. Communication is key! Make sure everyone on the wedding party know where they’re supposed to be.