Grooms' Guide To Surviving The Big Day

A wedding is one of the most important days in a person's life, and it can be stressful for both the bride and the groom. While the focus is often on the bride, the groom has a lot of responsibilities to ensure that the day goes smoothly. From wedding planning to the day itself, there are many things that a groom should keep in mind.

In the lead-up to the wedding, it's important for the groom to be involved in the planning process and to provide support to their partner. This includes contributing to the guest list, establishing the overall vibes for the wedding, and sharing the workload with their partner. On the wedding day itself, the groom should make sure to eat a good breakfast, check in with their bride, and not sweat the small stuff. It's also crucial for the groom to arrive on time, show their appreciation to the guests, and support their partner throughout the day.

By following these tips and staying involved and supportive, a groom can help ensure that their wedding day is a memorable and joyful occasion for everyone involved.

Eat a good breakfast to fuel yourself for the day

Eating a good breakfast is an important way to fuel yourself for your wedding day. It's likely to be a long day, with lots of things to do, people to see, and emotions to feel. You'll need to keep your energy up, and a good breakfast is the best way to do that.

Firstly, eating breakfast breaks an overnight fast. It replenishes your body's glucose supply, which boosts your energy levels and alertness. It also provides other essential nutrients required for good health. Eating breakfast has been shown to improve your energy levels and ability to concentrate in the short term, and can help with better weight management, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease in the long term.

If you don't eat breakfast, your body will start to break down fatty acids to produce energy. But without carbohydrates, these fatty acids are only partially oxidized, which can reduce your energy levels. Eating breakfast will restore your glycogen levels and get your metabolism ready for the day.

Breakfast is also an important way to get your essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Breakfast foods are rich in key nutrients, and people who eat breakfast are more likely to meet their recommended daily intakes of vitamins and minerals than those who skip it.

It's also a good idea to eat a nutritious breakfast to avoid snacking on less healthy foods later in the day. If you start the day with a healthy, satisfying meal, you're less likely to grab something less nutritious because you're hungry.

So, what should you eat for your pre-wedding breakfast? Well, you could go for a hearty breakfast like oatmeal with fruit, eggs, or a veggie scramble. If you don't have much time, a protein bar or smoothie will also give you a good energy boost.

Whatever you decide to eat, make sure it's something that will give you plenty of energy for the day ahead. And don't forget to eat something—it's one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself calm and relaxed on your wedding day.

Prepare your wedding outfit in advance

Preparing your wedding outfit in advance is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your big day goes smoothly. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your wedding day:

Plan and Practice

Knowing exactly what you want to wear and how you want to wear it will save you time and stress on the morning of your wedding. Decide on the details of your outfit in advance, from the type of tie knot to the length of your tie, and whether you'll wear a belt or suspenders. Practice tying your tie or bow tie, and attaching your boutonnière, so you don't have to waste time figuring it out on the day.

Get Your Suit Ready

Make sure your suit is pressed and ready to go the night before your wedding. Check that all buttons are secured and there are no loose threads. Check the pockets for any items you may have left behind from an earlier fitting, and ensure your suit is hung up to avoid any wrinkles.

Prepare the Small Details

The small details can make a big difference in your wedding outfit. Decide on your cuff style, whether you'll wear cufflinks, and how you'll fold your pocket square. Practice folding your pocket square in advance so you don't have to waste time on your wedding day. If you're wearing cufflinks, ask your best man, dad, or brother to help you put them on, as it can be tricky to do alone.

Create a Details Box

Prepare a box or bag with all the details you want to be photographed, such as your tie, shoes, socks, cufflinks, watch, cologne, and boutonnière. This will make it easier for the photographer to capture all the important details and ensure nothing goes missing.

Write Your Vows

Your vows are an important part of your wedding day. Take the time to write them out and practice reading them aloud in the days leading up to your wedding. This will help you feel more confident and ensure your vows are coherent and heartfelt.

Get a Good Night's Rest

In the excitement and nerves of your wedding day, don't forget the importance of a good night's sleep. Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine late in the evening, and create a relaxing atmosphere with dimmed lights and soothing music. Get a comfortable mattress and pillow to help you wake up feeling refreshed and energised for your big day.

By following these tips and preparing your wedding outfit in advance, you'll be able to relax and enjoy your special day, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Practice your speech and vows

Practicing your wedding speech and vows is a crucial part of preparing for your big day. Here are some tips to help you deliver them with confidence and sincerity:

Start Early

Don't wait until the last minute to write your vows. Give yourself ample time to write, revise, and even procrastinate a little. The earlier you start, the more time you'll have to make your vows perfect.

Set the Scene

Begin your vows by addressing your partner and sharing a story or fact about your relationship. This will provide a jumping-off point for the rest of your vows. For example, "Sarah, I had no idea when I attended Comic Con for the first time that I'd be here today, marrying my Princess Peach."

Communicate What You Admire About Your Fiancé(e)

Note the unique characteristics, qualities, and attributes of your fiancé(e) that make them special to you. Ask yourself, "What sets my fiancé(e) apart from everyone else I know?" "Why am I choosing to marry this person?" and "What are my favorite things about my fiancé(e)?"

Express Your Feelings About Your Relationship

Share how your relationship has impacted you and how it has changed you as a person. Talk about what makes your bond special and what you value most about your relationship.

Make Promises

The heart of your vows will be the promises you make to your fiancé(e). Include three to five promises that speak to who you strive to be as a husband and how you will support your partner. Ask yourself, "Who will I strive to be as a husband?" "How will I show my support?" and "What are my hopes and dreams for my partner?"

End with a Loving Note

Conclude your vows with a heartfelt and impactful statement. For example, "I love you more today than I did yesterday, and every tomorrow, I'll love you more than I did the day before." or "I can't wait to spend my life with my best friend. I love you now, and I will always."

Practice, Practice, Practice

Once you've written your vows, it's time to practice! Read your vows aloud, again and again, until they feel natural. If you're nervous about public speaking, consider asking a trusted friend or family member to listen to your vows and give you feedback. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you'll feel on your wedding day.

Ask your friends to be groomsmen

Asking your friends to be your groomsmen is an important part of the wedding planning process. Here are some creative and meaningful ways to do it:

Send a Formal Invitation

A formal, written invitation can be a great way to ask your friends to be your groomsmen. It gives you the opportunity to express your thoughts and emotions effectively and ensures that your friends have a tangible keepsake to remember the occasion.

Give a Thoughtful Gift

You can give your friends a gift that is meaningful to them, along with a note expressing your appreciation for them and asking if they would like to be your groomsman. For example, if your friend is a basketball fan, you could get them tickets to see their favourite team play. Alternatively, you could give them a gift that is directly related to your wedding, such as a pair of cufflinks, a pocket square, or a cigar to be lit after the ceremony.

Ask Them All at Once

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the idea of asking each friend individually, consider gathering them all together for a fun activity, such as a BBQ, a hiking trip, or even your engagement party. During the event, give a short speech about why these people are important to you and why you want them by your side on your wedding day, then pop the question! This approach will create a sense of camaraderie among your groomsmen and make future wedding-related gatherings more enjoyable.

Send a Groomsman Gift Box

A groomsman gift box is a fun way to ask your friends to be a part of your wedding while also providing them with some useful items for the celebration. You can tie the box's theme to your wedding venue, location, or type of celebration. For example, if you're having a beach wedding, include items like sunscreen, shades, and a drink to hydrate. Alternatively, for a more formal affair, consider including a bow tie, a bottle opener, and a craft cocktail. Don't forget to add some tissues for those happy tears!

Ask with an Accessory

Consider gifting your groomsmen-to-be stylish and reusable accessories that they can wear on your big day. Some options include cufflinks, watches, dress shoes, bow ties, ties, pocket squares, suspenders, socks, or even cologne. You can mix and match colours and styles to fit your wedding colour scheme while still allowing each groomsman to showcase their unique personality.

Thank your guests

One of the most important things a groom can do on his wedding day is to thank his guests. Here are some ways to show your gratitude:

Send "Thank You" Cards

After the wedding, set aside some time to write personalised "thank you" cards to your guests. It's a thoughtful gesture that shows your appreciation for their presence and their gifts. Mention something specific, like a shared memory or a special moment during the wedding. You could also express your excitement to see them again or how you plan to use their gift. It's best to send these cards within three months of the wedding.

Give a Small Token of Appreciation

Provide a small gift or favour to your guests at the reception as a token of your gratitude. This could be something personalised or a small item that reflects your wedding theme.

Make a Speech

Use your speech as an opportunity to thank your guests. You can express your gratitude, share a heartfelt message, and let them know how much their presence means to you. It's a great way to make your guests feel valued and appreciated.

Take Pictures with Your Guests

Capture memories with your guests by taking pictures together. It's a once-in-a-lifetime event, and having photos with your loved ones will be cherished for years to come. Don't forget to tell everyone to smile and express your appreciation for their attendance.

Honour Your Parents

Your parents have likely played a significant role in your life and your wedding day. Take the time to honour and thank them during your vows, speech, or with a small gift. Express your gratitude for their love, support, and sacrifices.

Frequently asked questions