Best Man Duties & Speech Examples
So you're the best man! Woo hoo... oh wait, it's not just fun and games - you've got some serious duties, responsibilities, and obligations.
Once the initial excitement dies off, it's time to get organized so you're friend or relative has the best wedding experience possible. The best man is a role that must be taken seriously. Done wrong, it can ruin one of the best relationships you've taken a lifetime to form...
But on the brightside, it's fun if you do it right... and you'll have a very positive experience that you'll never forget.
So, without further ado...
Here's a List of your Primary Best Man Roles and Responsiblities
- First and foremost, you are the are the personal adviser of the groom before and throughout the wedding. Make sure you take initiative and ask, rather than just assume. There are a lot of emotions involved and the last thing you want to do is upset the groom by rubbing the bride the wrong way (and they're generally VERY picky and stressed out for this event!)
- You may be required to assist in the selection and renting of the formal-wear during the wedding. Check with the groom and bride before making a final decision. Also inquire about making arrangements for out of town groomsmen.
- One of the most important roles of the best man is to coordinate the bachelor party... but don't feel alone here; feel comfortable asking for assistance from other groomsmen; in most cases they will be on board; and don't worry too much about costs as they are split between all the groomsmen.
- You will be required to attend the rehearsal dinner. This is generally where you will find out who you will walk down the isle with and is a good opportunity to ensure there are no surprises on the big day.
- While vows are being exchanged you will stand behind the altar and hold the bride's ring. Make sure you keep it safe, and practice taking it out to provide for a smooth transition (it will not be fun if you're fumbling around for it!)
- Take charge of and organize the other groomsman to make sure they're doing their duties. Feel free to delegate some of your responsibilities.
- You and the maid of honor will be witnesses for, and sign the marriage license.
- It is your responsibility to hand the officiant their fee after the ceremony, usually in a sealed envelope.
- Be prepared to be introduced or announced with the maid of honor once the reception begins, and you should dance with her and the bride once during reception as well.
- At the reception, make sure to give the first toast. This is the big one, so make sure you practice and rehearse before delivering. If you want some great speech examples that deliver both humor and sincerity check out Wedding Speeches 4 U.
- Check with the groom, but you may have to collect all the gift envelopes. While it may seem like no one in their right mind would steal at a wedding, it does happen, so use your judgement.
- Decorating the 'just married' car is one of the most fun parts of the whole event. Get the groomsmen and even the bridesmaids together and have a ball.
- Be prepared to drive the couple to an airport or their hotel after the reception. Check first, though, as most of the time they'll either drive themselves or take a limo. If you want to be able to drink a few at the wedding then you might consider having yourself and the groomsmen pitch in for a limo as well.
| For a complete battleplan for the best man, click here to get top notch toast and speech examples, bachelor party planning tips, and detailed step-by-steps to ensure you knock it out of the park for your friend or relative. |
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