The Role of the Groomsmen
Great, you’ve been asked to be a groomsman at your good friend’s wedding! This is certainly an exciting time as you help him prepare for life as a married man and while it will be full of good times such as parties and golf games, the groom and the best man will be looking to you for additional support and they will rely on you to take your role seriously. Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to your role as a groomsman.
Ushers vs. Groomsmen
When it comes to weddings, the words ‘ushers’ and ‘groomsmen’ are used interchangeably to identify the men that stand up for the groom. However, they are two different terms. The main responsibilities of ushers is to show guests to their seats as they arrive at the ceremony and to show guests out when the ceremony is over to prevent chaos. The main role of the groomsmen is to stand at the front and provide support for the groom as well as walk the bridesmaids down the aisle.
That being said, the groomsmen often fill in the role of usher as well, especially with larger weddings where ushers are necessary to instill order.
Playing a Supportive Role
Although you will most likely be the least involved of the wedding party in the actual wedding planning, the groom and the best man are counting on you to do your part and be involved. This means showing up on time for all the fittings and making sure you know what you will be wearing on the big day (shoes, socks, cufflinks, cummerbunds, etc.)
You also need to make sure that you show your support by doing whatever you can to make sure the day goes smoothly. This means getting to the ceremony well in advance, especially if you’re going to be escorting guests, and making sure that you’re properly dressed and have everything that the groom or best man has asked you to bring, if necessary.
Attending Wedding Celebrations
One of the most fun parts of being a groomsman is that it’s required that you go to the bachelor party! The best man may ask for your help in planning this although it will be mainly his responsibility. Make sure you know what the groom does or does not want for his party and respect his wishes.
More formal events that you will be required to attend are things such as the engagement party but the most important is the rehearsal ceremony and dinner. It’s especially important that you attend these events so you’re prepared for the next day and know exactly what’s going to be required of you.
As a groomsman, you will mostly be making sure that you can help out wherever help is needed and although this is a serious role to play in the wedding, it’s important that you have fun with it! Often, everyone else becomes so stressed about wedding planning that they rely on the groomsmen for a little comic relief!
