It’s one of the greatest honors a best friend could ever give you, but it can also be a little overwhelming and nerve wracking. Being the best man in a wedding is a chance to make some wonderful memories, but if you’ve never been one before, what do you do? When is the last time you’ve been called the best? We’ve put together a few tips and tricks to help you rise to the occasion and fulfill your best man duties from engagement to honeymoon.
Before the wedding
This is probably where most of the hard work and attention to detail will come into play. While getting ready for the big day, there are a few crucial elements that are not to be missed. Among those are planning the key pre-wedding events like the bachelor party and/or rehearsal dinner. Best men will work with the maid of honor or other wedding party individuals to pull everything together, but you’ll be looked to for direction on nailing the details your buddy will appreciate, whether that’s confirming his favorite beer is stocked or dish is served, or that you’ve gathered the appropriate costumes for bachelor party shenanigans.
Other things you might not have thought of include going with the groom to get his tuxedo fitted, driving him to the venue on the big day, helping with groomsmen gifts (we’ve got your back) or playing stylist and making sure all the groomsmen are wearing their boutonnières correctly.
At the wedding
Now it’s showtime. Being as organized as possible will not only make the happy couple less stressed, but will allow you to actually enjoy the big day.
One of the best things you can do is to just be with the groom. He might be nervous, excited, scared, or all of the above, but providing him with some emotional support will prove to be a big help. This might mean entering the venue with him, holding the rings, and helping him get dressed. If he needs some time alone, make sure you are visible by greeting guests and getting your schmooze on. During the ceremony, you’ll stand beside the groom at the altar and keep the bride’s ring until vows are exchanged (figure out a safe place to hold the ring until then). You may also be asked to sign the marriage license as a witness after the ceremony.
After the ceremony, you’ll be announced with the maid of honor when the reception begins. The two of you may be responsible for collecting gift envelopes that guests bring and keeping them safe for the bride and groom. Above all, you have a chance to knock it out of the park with a homerun of a best man speech. (Thankfully, we know just what to say.)
After the wedding
You didn’t think the work stopped as soon as the “I do’s” were said, did you? To really put the “best” in best man, we suggest going above and beyond by assisting with the decoration of the getaway car (or assigning someone else if creative surprises aren’t your thing), returning any tuxedo or clothing rentals, and helping with any final honeymoon plans. (Luggage, tickets, passport—check!) After all, this is one of the biggest occasions in your buddy’s life, and who knows—soon you may be calling upon him to return the favor.
