Choosing your groomsmen is one of the most important tasks you’ll have in preparing for your wedding day. These attendants are expected to support you and help you prepare for your wedding, assisting with details and tasks, before, during, and after your wedding. They are also expected to share in the joy of your wedding day, standing near you during the ceremony, participating in group photographs, and generally enjoying the days activities as your trusted and honored attendants. Most grooms chose close friends and family members as groomsmen.
The first thing to remember when choosing groomsmen is that your wedding is supposed to be about you and your bride. Your wishes take top priority in selecting attendants. You are under no obligation to ask anyone to be in your wedding. This means you do not have to ask your best friend from middle school to be in the wedding party. Instead, choose people who will add something desirable to your special day.
Reliability is also of great importance when you are choosing your groomsmen. You will need them to be on time for the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, as well as for the ceremony. You will rely on them for attending pre-wedding parties, escorting the bride’s attendants in the wedding recessional, helping you to stay organized, and, in some cases, helping wedding guests to their seats before the ceremony. You may also require their help in transporting your belongings after the wedding ceremony and reception. Choose attendants who are responsible and reliable to avoid disappointment and hassle.
Select groomsmen with financial considerations in mind. Though your chosen attendants may consider it an honor to serve in your wedding, some may have difficulty paying for related expenses. Typically, groomsmen pay for their own formalwear. They are also responsible for paying for their own transportation to the wedding and hotel accommodations if they are traveling from another area. Make certain the people you choose understand the financial requirements of accepting this honor.
Often, a groom will choose one particular person to serve in an honor position as his best man. This person typically has more responsibility than the other groomsmen, stands closest to the groom during the ceremony, and takes the lead in planning the groom’s bachelor party. Additionally, some grooms appoint ushers to seat guests instead of giving the groomsmen this task.