From the all-important speech to making sure the rings are kept safe and sound, the best man has a lot to think about on his friend’s wedding day. Though the role of the best man may seem like a piece of cake, it’s always a good idea to prepare ahead of time to avoid any wedding day faux pas. So, if you’re wondering what to say, what to wear and how to dance as best man, take heed of the following tips.
Firstly, the best man’s most important task is his speech. The speech is your opportunity to kick-off the wedding reception with some light-hearted gags and humorous storytelling. However, it’s important that you’re speech remains appropriate for the occasion. Remember, the groom’s grandma and young cousins will likely be in the room, and raunchy jokes in front of such an eclectic crowd are likely to go down like a lead balloon. Also, don’t be afraid to inject a touch of sentimentality into your speech; after all, it is a wedding. Tell the wedding guests how long you’ve known the groom and how much his friendship means to you. Use as many details as possible, as it is the small particulars that really bring a story to life. Finally, don’t forget to include the bride! Add something near the end of your speech about how the bride complements the groom and how you are happy for the newly married couple.
While the speech is perhaps the most stressful part of being a best man, getting to plan the stag party is probably the most fun. From all-day pub sessions with fancy dress and drinking games to brilliant weekend getaways with the lads, there are many different ways to go about organising a stag party. However, remember to think of the groom-to-be and what type of stag party best suits his personality. For example, if he’s a keen golfer, a golfing weekend will probably mean more to him than a typical day in the pub. Another important component of the stag party is the guests; so make sure, not to leave anybody out. To make sure you don’t exclude anyone, you can ask the bride-to-be if she can give you a list of who her future husband would most want at his stag do.
Once you’ve organised the stag party and written your speech, all you really need to worry about is keeping the rings safe during the ceremony. You probably won’t have to concern yourself over what to wear for the wedding, since the groom usually organises suits or tuxedos for his groomsmen. However, many couples are opting for fewer traditional weddings these days, so don’t be surprised if you’re asked to find your own outfit for the big day. Some groomsmen go formal with tuxedos while others stick with shirts and suit trousers for a more casual look. The suit trousers, shirt and suit jacket combo is ideal for an outdoor, daytime wedding. For a beach wedding, simply roll your trouser cuffs up slightly and go barefoot.
Finally, before the big day arrives, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on your dance moves. Though you won’t be expected to dance like a pro, many people do look for the best man to get the party started. In recent years, many best men go above and beyond the call of duty by secretly planning a wedding ‘flash mob’ for the bride and groom to enjoy at the reception.
