Best Man's Gifts: Should You Go Big?

Being the best man at a wedding is a big responsibility. From planning the bachelor party to making sure the groom gets to the altar on time, the best man plays a crucial role in the wedding planning process and on the big day itself. But does the best man get a better gift than the other groomsmen?

There are differing opinions on whether the best man should receive a more expensive gift than the groomsmen. Some people argue that the best man has more responsibilities and therefore deserves a larger or more extravagant gift. Others believe that all groomsmen should be treated equally and receive similar gifts, with perhaps a small extra gift for the best man to show appreciation for his additional efforts.

Ultimately, the decision is up to the groom and can depend on various factors such as budget, the relationship with the best man, and the preferences of the wedding party. It's important to consider the interests and personalities of the best man and groomsmen when choosing gifts and to add a personal touch to show appreciation. While there is no set amount to spend on a best man gift, it is customary to give a gift as a token of gratitude for their support and participation in the wedding.

Should the best man's gift be from the groomsmen too?

The best man plays a crucial role in the groom's life, and it is only natural to want to get him a gift that shows your appreciation. While the groomsmen may also contribute to a group gift, it is ultimately up to the groom to decide on a unique and thoughtful present for his best man.

The best man's gift is expected to be more extravagant than those of the groomsmen, reflecting his greater responsibilities and the time and money he has invested in the wedding. It is common for the best man to receive a more expensive gift, such as a personalised present or a larger monetary amount. However, it is important to consider the budget and not feel pressured to spend a large sum of money.

When choosing a gift for the best man, it is essential to consider his interests, personality, and hobbies. Adding a personal touch through personalisation or customisation can make the gift more meaningful and show your appreciation for his unique role in the wedding. It is also a good idea to give the gift before the wedding, such as at the rehearsal dinner or bachelor party, to surprise him and show your gratitude.

In conclusion, the best man's gift should be separate from the groomsmen's gifts and should reflect his important role in the groom's life and the wedding. A well-chosen and thoughtful gift will surely make the best man feel appreciated and valued.

How much should the best man spend on a gift?

The best man traditionally gives the groom a gift, and may also choose to get the groom an individual gift as part of the bachelor party festivities, but it is not necessary. The best man should expect to spend around $120 on a wedding gift and potentially more if he's attending the wedding with a plus-one. However, there is no set amount that the best man has to spend, and it is more important to give a thoughtful and personalized gift that aligns with the groom's interests and personality.

The cost of a gift is never a good indicator of how much you care about the recipient. If you're on a tight budget, don't be afraid to go for something simple. Adding a personal touch, such as personalization, will be extremely beneficial and outweigh something expensive and flashy.

It is worth noting that the best man often incurs other expenses as part of the wedding, such as travel, pre-wedding grooming, and the cost of a tuxedo rental. Therefore, it is understandable if the best man chooses to give a more modest gift.

• Personalized cufflinks
• A personalized beer mug
• A personalized money clip
• Tickets to his favorite sports team
• A cocktail subscription box
• A nice bottle of wine

When is the best time to give a gift to the best man?

The best man plays a crucial role in the wedding planning process and on the big day itself. He is the groom's go-to person and confidant, providing moral support and helping with various tasks such as planning the bachelor party, coordinating travel and accommodations, and ensuring the groom arrives on time at the altar. In addition to these duties, the best man is also expected to give the groom a gift or organise a group gift from the groomsmen.

So, when is the best time to give a gift to the best man? Here are some suggestions:

• Before the wedding: It is generally recommended to give the gift to the best man before the wedding, either at the wedding rehearsal dinner or even the bachelor party. This way, the best man can feel appreciated for all his hard work in the lead-up to the wedding.
• On the wedding day: If giving the gift before the wedding is not possible, the groom can present it to the best man on the morning of the wedding, before the ceremony. This is a good option as the best man is usually with the groom for most of the day.
• At the bachelor party: If the groom wants to give something more light-hearted and fun, he can present the best man with a gift at the bachelor party. This could be something that the best man can use at the party itself, such as a "Chillsner" to keep his beer cold, or a set of personalised golf balls if he enjoys golf.
• After the wedding: While it is not common, some couples choose to give gifts to their wedding party after the reception. However, this may not be the best time as many guests, including the best man, may have consumed a significant amount of alcohol.

When giving a gift to the best man, it is important to consider his interests, personality, and hobbies. The gift should be personalised, practical, and meaningful, showing appreciation for his unique role in the wedding. It is also a good idea to include a handwritten note or card to add a thoughtful touch.

In terms of budget, there is no set amount that needs to be spent on a best man gift. It is more important to consider the thought and effort that goes into the gift rather than the price tag. A personalised gift, such as cufflinks with the best man's initials, a customised beer mug, or a stylish wallet, will be cherished for years to come.

Remember, the best man plays a vital role in the wedding, and giving him a gift is a way to show gratitude and acknowledge his contributions.

What are some good gift ideas for the best man?

Being the best man at a wedding is a big responsibility, and it's only natural to want to show your appreciation with a thoughtful gift. Here are some unique and memorable gift ideas to make your best man feel valued and appreciated:

Personalised Gifts

A personalised gift is always a good idea as it shows you've put thought into the present and makes it more special. You could get him personalised cufflinks, a money clip, or a beer mug with his initials engraved on them. You could also get him a whiskey glass with his name, his role at the wedding, and the wedding date engraved on it.

Experience Gifts

If your best man is a sports enthusiast, you could gift him tickets to his favourite sports team's game or a local pub crawl. This will create lasting memories and show your appreciation.

Subscription Boxes

A subscription box tailored to his interests is another great option. Whether it's a monthly coffee sampler, a book club subscription, or a grooming kit delivery, he'll enjoy the surprise and convenience of receiving curated items regularly.

Practical Gifts

Practical gifts are always useful, and you can choose something that aligns with his daily needs and hobbies. For example, a personalised toiletry bag, a stylish wallet, or a durable travel mug.

Accessories

You could gift him elegant cufflinks or a watch, personalised with his initials or a wedding date. This is a timeless gift that he can cherish for years to come.

Gourmet Gifts

If your best man is a foodie or a drink connoisseur, you could treat him to a nice bottle of wine, a set of high-quality whiskey glasses, or a cocktail box subscription.

Remember, when choosing a gift, it's important to consider his interests, personality, and preferences. Adding a handwritten note is also a thoughtful touch to show your gratitude and make the gift more meaningful.

What are the best man's responsibilities?

Being the best man is a huge honour and a significant responsibility. The best man is the groom's right-hand man and go-to person throughout the wedding planning process and on the big day itself. Here is a detailed list of the best man's responsibilities:

Before the Wedding

• Lead the groomsmen: The best man is the head groomsman and is responsible for leading and coordinating the activities and duties of the rest of the groomsmen. This includes being the point of contact and mediator between the groom and the groomsmen.
• Head up the formalwear process: Assist the groom in choosing and purchasing or renting wedding attire for himself and the groomsmen. This may involve gathering measurements, setting order deadlines, and placing the order.
• Plan the bachelor party: Organise a bachelor party that suits the groom's preferences and interests. This may involve travelling to a desired location or organising activities that the groom will enjoy. Enlist the help of the other groomsmen with logistics and recommendations.
• Attend pre-wedding events: Attend the engagement party, shower, ceremony rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner. These events provide opportunities to bond with the wedding party and the couple's families.
• Liaise with the maid of honour: Communicate with the maid of honour to coordinate and collaborate on tasks, such as preparing gifts or umbrellas for the wedding day.
• Help with wedding planning admin: Offer to assist the groom with logistical details such as booking vendors, managing RSVPs, and coordinating schedules.
• Write the best man's speech: Prepare and practise your speech well in advance. Ensure that the tone is appropriate for the audience and run it by a trusted person for feedback.
• Organise a groomsmen's gift to the groom: This is not compulsory but is a thoughtful gesture. Chat with the groomsmen and see if they would like to contribute to a sentimental gift for the groom.
• Organise final fittings: Keep an eye on any last-minute suit fittings that the groom or groomsmen may require and help coordinate these alterations.
• Check in with the groom: Provide emotional support to the groom and be a sounding board for any nerves or wedding-related anxiety.
• Help with the pre-wedding set-up: Assist with picking up and delivering hired items, such as wedding suits, and offer to help with any venue set-up.

On the Wedding Day

• Help the groom get ready: On the morning of the wedding, be hands-on and assist the groom with any last-minute tasks.
• Organise the ushers: On the wedding day, take delivery of any buttonholes and distribute them to the groomsmen and ushers. Keep an eye on the time to ensure everyone is ready.
• Keep the rings safe: The best man is often entrusted with keeping the wedding rings safe until the ring exchange during the ceremony. This is a small but crucial responsibility.
• Greet the guests with the groom: Ensure that the groom arrives at the venue early and welcome and greet the arriving guests together.
• Stand at the altar with the groom: Traditionally, the best man stands next to the groom during the ceremony, displaying love and support.
• Escort the maid of honour: After the ceremony, the best man traditionally escorts the maid of honour out of the room before the newlyweds exit.
• Stand in the receiving line: If the couple chooses to have a receiving line, greet the guests as a key part of the wedding party.
• Help organise wedding photographs: Work with the ushers to round up guests for group photos and ensure that you are also present in many of them.
• Be the master of ceremonies: If the couple has not hired a toastmaster or master of ceremonies, the best man may be asked to make announcements, such as introducing the couple's arrival, speeches, or cake-cutting.
• Deliver your speech: Traditionally, the best man's speech comes after the father of the bride's speech. Speak slowly, pause for laughter, and mention everyone who needs to be acknowledged.
• Get the party started: After the first dance, it is traditional for the best man to dance with the maid of honour and encourage everyone onto the dance floor.
• Be the groom's right-hand man: Throughout the day, be the groom's personal aide and adviser. This may include helping him get ready, delivering a letter to his spouse, serving as a point of contact for vendors, and ensuring he eats, drinks, and stays calm.
• Be the time enforcer: Ensure that the groomsmen arrive on time for the rehearsal, pre-wedding activities, and the wedding ceremony itself. Communicate important times to the groom's crew and stick to the timeline.
• Decorate the getaway car: If the couple is planning a noteworthy exit, help decorate their vehicle. Make sure to get permission from the vehicle owner beforehand.

After the Wedding

• Return and clean suits: Help round up and return any hired items, such as suits, and take care of dry cleaning if necessary.
• Take care of wedding gifts: If the couple goes on their honeymoon immediately, safely store their wedding gifts until they return. Ensure that all gifts, cards, and keepsakes are collected and delivered to the couple.
• Help with vendor tips: The couple may ask the best man to

Frequently asked questions