WEDDING NOTES™ - Who is the BEST MAN?

We enjoy helping the groom and his best man understand the scope of his duties as he assists the groom both on his big day as well as days leading up to the wedding. 

The best man is usually the groom's brother, father or best friend.  His role is important and is usually given to someone reliable and close to the groom.

Here are most of the traditional duties that accompany the acceptance of this role.

• ·         An important duty is to coordinate arrangements for the bachelor dinner, which is held at least

two days before the wedding.  Some choose to surprise the groom with location and details but we have observed over time that it is better to involve the groom in key choices for the event.

• ·         He makes certain that the groom is on time to all wedding related functions.

• ·         He picks up the groom's formal wear and accessories for the event and handles its return following the wedding.  He also assists the groom in getting other males in the wedding party in for timely sizing.

• ·         Many a best man has also assumed responsibility for verifying honeymoon departure plans and may confirm reservations.

• ·         He may organize plans for decorating the car which the bride and groom will use for their departure from the reception.  He is wise to listen to the couple's plea for tasteful car decor or their decision to avoid that entire procedure.  If a rental car - classic or limo - is being used, no other decorations than those chosen by the couple in agreement with the car company may be used.  The best man's job is to remind overzealous guests of this fact and to discourage any activities that might damage the car or jeopardize safety.

• ·         On the day of the wedding he is in charge of the bride's wedding band, the marriage license, the groom's wallet for the honeymoon and the clergy's fee.

• ·         At the reception, he gives the first toast and has the fourth dance with the bride.  (Note:  her first dance is with the groom, the second with her father and the third with the groom's father.)

• ·         And any other duties that will help the groom.

It is considered an honor to be asked to be best man - and it is also a responsibility if done correctly.