What is a best man?
The best man (or woman) is chosen by the groom to be his go-to person. Typically a close friend or trusted family member, the best man has lots of responsibilities that require being there for the groom in every way possible.
Can there be more than one best man?
Absolutely! It can be tough for some to pick just one person for this important job. Maybe there is a best friend AND brother you share a close bond with? Good news… you don’t have to choose just one! There are no rules that say it is a one-person duty. Actually, having two best men might even help things run a little more smoothly.
What does a best man do?
Being asked to be the best man at a wedding entails more than standing beside the groom at the front of the church or planning an awesome bachelor party! Below is a checklist to help cover all the bases.
- Be there for pre-wedding events, such as the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner.
- Remind and set dates for the groomsmen to get fitted for tuxedos.
- Plan the bachelor party (a fan fave!): determine a location, compose a guest list, and provide entertainment.
- Arrange tuxedo pickups and returns on the set dates.
- Hold the official marriage license and serve as a witness to the signing, if applicable.
- Offer to help the groom with other important tasks, such as writing a toast to the bride, or maybe even help with writing vows.
- Offer to help with honeymoon travel arrangements.
- Ensure the groom and groomsmen are dressed accordingly and that everyone looks their best.
- Ensure that all ushers are ready for the wedding.
- Hold the bride's wedding ring, or both rings, if applicable.
- Help lead the groomsmen to make sure that they are where they need to be to keep the wedding plans on track.
- Arrive at the reception first to greet the happy new couple.
- Make the first toast/speech to the new couple. This is BIG ONE!
- When asked, he should act as a host at the reception and help where needed.
- Say cheese–always be ready to pose for photos.
- Return any tuxedos that need to go back to the shop.
- Help with transportation for out-of-town guests to the airport.
- Help deliver gifts from the reception to the newly-married couple's home if asked.
- Finally, and most importantly, be the right-hand man–the best man must be there for the groom as a friend and confidant to keep him calm and relaxed. This means before, during, and after the wedding.