There are plenty of ways gentlemen can get involved in the wedding planning, dare we say even take the lead in certain responsibilities. For some grooms-to-be, this may come as a bit of a shock. However, the groom can – and should – do more than just getting his wedding suit fitted. Mmmm hmmmmm. Terrifying? Doesn’t have to be.
Well, to help you out and put your mind at ease, here’s a list of things/responsibilities/gestures/tasks (take your pick) that you, the groom, can help do to your soul mate out when it comes to wedding prep and planning. Yes, the brownie points and satisfaction you receive from following these Groom’s Wedding Planning Tips will be totally worth it.
The image of the stereotypical useless groom stops now.
1. All Things Groomsmen
This one should fall under that column entitled, “Obvious” but, just in case, it is the groom’s responsibility to choose his groomsmen. But it doesn’t stop there. You also need to make sure they are actually invited to the wedding, that they know where and when the suit fittings are, what the schedule for the day is, what roles they will be playing and any activities that will be occurring. Luckily, that is where the best man comes in because it is their duty to help you coordinate. Just make sure you check things off, though, and don’t just leave in their (possibly) incapable hands.
2. The Guest List Takes Two
This is where the politics of wedding planning really takes off and, trust me, the struggle is real. It isn’t just a matter of whittling your friends and family down to a number that fits your budget or venue, it is also about allocating a certain number of seats for your parent’s friends too (insert sigh here). Of course, it isn’t just a matter of reeling off some names because you will also need to track down their correct addresses (insert the second sigh here).
3. Those That Haven’t Replied
Yup, with every wedding, there will be those that fail to RSVP, which is when you need to embody Dog The Bounty Hunter and track these people down. You can’t be expected to do all of them, but you should certainly hunt down those on your side of the guest list, and get their dinner selection (if you are offering an entree choice) while you’re at it.
4. Choosing The Photographer
Make a shortlist of options to show your bride to be. Let’s say you’ve settled on a Lake Como honeymoon, then make a list of local photographers and pop Vittore Buzzi at the top. Or if you’re on more of a budget, then ask friends (especially those who were recently married) for any recommendations and then go through their portfolios with your fiancé.
5. Two Left Feet Won’t Do
This is one of the most undervalued parts of a wedding day, but you really need to learn how to dance and then practice as much as possible. The reason for this is simple: most couples (read: brides) want to choreograph their own first dance (and rightly so). It doesn’t have to be an elaborate dance routine, but you want to look comfortable, and polished, and the old “high school sway” just won’t cut it.
Look for a local dance instructor and sign up at least four months in advance. (You can also Google Arthur Murray Dance Centers, who have studios in 22 countries). Make it your weekly date night; dance class followed by a dinner out. Just promise you’ll put the effort in.
6. Writing The Vows
If you have decided to write your own vows, then it is your responsibility to take the time to write from the heart, to edit and re-edit, to practice and rehearse and make them as beautiful as possible. Going all last minute on your vows is never a good idea. So, make sure you give yourself plenty of time, and get plenty of help as needed, and set out to see happy tears.
7. The Giving Of The Gifts
This is your chance to thank your best buds, the guys that have helped you look semi-efficient, the chaps that will stand with you at the front of the church on your big day. They have been with you for years, they are with you now, and they will continue to be with you as the days roll on. What you need to do is buy them gifts that are worthy of this. Engraved silverware, matching watches, tickets to Twickenham or other favorite sporting event. So long as it is worthy of thanks, you can be as personal as you like.
* This is a contributed post
I hope you found this information on the groom’s wedding planning tips useful!
Hearts, Joy, Love!
Jean
For planning help and unique ideas for your wedding call or text me at 937-581-3647, or email me at jean@weddingsfromtheheart.net!