Groomsmen Guide: Cheap Ways To Celebrate Your Wedding

Being a groomsman can be an expensive business. From suits to travel, gifts to accessories, the costs can soon add up. But there are ways to keep the expenses down. For example, grooms can allow their groomsmen to choose their wedding attire from their own wardrobe, rather than renting or buying a new outfit. Grooms can also gift their groomsmen with accessories like cufflinks and ties, rather than expecting them to buy their own. When it comes to gifts, it's the thought that counts. A personalised whiskey glass or engraved knife won't break the bank but will be a memorable keepsake.

Groomsmen buy their wedding attire

Traditionally, groomsmen buy or rent their wedding attire. This is usually a suit or tuxedo, but can also be other ensembles, depending on the formality of the event and the preferences of the couple. For example, if the wedding is during the warmer months, in the daytime, or outdoors, lighter colours and more casual fabrics are a good option. Conversely, if the wedding is in the evening, at a high-end venue, or has a black-tie dress code, dark suits or tuxedos are more appropriate.

Grooms should be upfront about the expected prices of the attire and any accessories, and should allow their groomsmen to be part of the selection process. If the groomsmen are wearing their own suits, be sure to give them specific style guidelines, and ask them to submit a photo of their outfit a few months before the event so that they have time to buy or rent an alternative if necessary.

If the groom chooses to, they may help cover some or all of the expense of the attire for their groomsmen, depending on their financial situation and expectations. It is also traditional for the groom to cover the cost of any specific accessories they would like their groomsmen to wear, such as a particular tie or pair of socks.

Groomsmen pay for the bachelor party

Planning a wedding can be an expensive affair, and bachelor parties are no exception. Here are some tips to keep in mind when it comes to groomsmen paying for the bachelor party:

Planning and Budgeting:

The best man typically takes on the responsibility of planning the bachelor party, which includes establishing a budget. It is essential to choose the guest list first, as the number of attendees will significantly impact the overall cost. The best man should aim to be as accurate as possible when providing a cost estimate to the groomsmen. This budget should cover expenses such as transportation, accommodation, food, drinks, and any planned activities.

Splitting the Costs:

The costs of the bachelor party are usually split evenly among the groomsmen, and they typically cover their own expenses, such as transportation, food, drinks, and accommodation. Additionally, it is common for the groomsmen to split the groom's expenses as well, including travel, lodging, meals, and activities. However, this is not mandatory, and the groom should not expect a fully-funded trip. If the bachelor party is a local, one-night event, the groomsmen usually cover the groom's expenses. For longer or more elaborate celebrations, the groom may be expected to contribute to certain expenses, such as transportation or accommodation.

Communication is Key:

It is crucial to have open and honest conversations about financial expectations and comfort levels. The best man should not feel pressured to pay more than their share, and all attendees should be clear about what they can afford to avoid any surprises or misunderstandings. It is also a good idea to use a shared spreadsheet or budgeting app to keep track of expenses and ensure everyone is on the same page.

Treating the Groom:

While the groomsmen are not obligated to pay for everything, it is customary for them to treat the groom to certain meals, drinks, or activities. This can be done by taking turns to pay for the groom's tab or splitting the cost of specific events or expenses.

Paying in Advance:

To secure reservations and take advantage of early bird discounts, it is often necessary to pay in advance. The best man may need to front some of the costs initially, but other groomsmen should reimburse them promptly.

Gifts and Decorations:

The best man usually takes charge of party decorations and swag, but since everyone will be using or wearing them, it is fair to split the total cost. This ensures that no one individual is burdened with the entire bill.

In conclusion, while there are no strict rules, etiquette suggests that groomsmen split the costs of the bachelor party, including the groom's expenses to some extent. Effective planning, honest communication, and thoughtful gestures will contribute to a memorable celebration without breaking the bank.

Groomsmen purchase a wedding gift

Groomsmen are expected to purchase a wedding gift for the couple. This is in addition to their own wedding attire, accessories, travel and accommodation. While it is not mandatory, it is considered good etiquette and a thoughtful gesture.

If you are a groomsman wondering how to keep costs down when it comes to buying a gift, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you could suggest that the groomsmen club together to buy a group gift. This is a great way to get something more expensive off the couple's wedding registry without breaking the bank. Another option is to give a more modest individual gift, especially if you have already spent a lot on other wedding-related expenses. This could be something like a bottle of wine and two glasses, a gift card, or a small item that complements the couple's shared hobby.

• Personalised lowball whiskey glass or beer glass: You can get creative and add a fun saying or the groomsman's name to it.
• Personalised groomsmen socks: Socks are a classic groomsmen gift and you can add a pop of colour and personality by customising them.
• Custom bottle openers: These can be engraved with the groomsman's initials or a special message.
• Music-themed coasters: Made from upcycled records, these are a unique and charming addition to any music lover's home.
• State outline baseball caps: These hats are embroidered with the outline of a state of your choosing and can be a fun way to represent where the groomsmen are from.

Remember, it's the thought that counts, and the couple will surely appreciate any gift, big or small!

Groomsmen pay for their travel and accommodation

Groomsmen are typically expected to cover their travel and accommodation expenses when attending a wedding. This includes transportation and hotel costs.

If the wedding is a destination wedding, these costs can quickly add up, with flights and multiple nights at an expensive resort being required. In such cases, groomsmen can save money by splitting a vacation home rental or hotel room with other wedding party members.

The couple may offer to help with some travel-related expenses by booking a hotel room block or splitting the cost of accommodations, but this is not required. It is considered a nice gesture and can help guests save money.

It is important to note that groomsmen also have other financial responsibilities, such as purchasing their wedding attire, accessories, and a gift for the couple. Therefore, it is understandable if a groomsman needs to set boundaries and look for alternative options to reduce their expenses.

Groomsmen buy their accessories

Groomsmen typically buy their own accessories, but there are ways to keep the costs down.

Groomsmen Accessories

Groomsmen usually pay for their accessories, which can include shoes, socks, cufflinks, ties, pocket squares, belts, and more. These accessories can be purchased or rented, but it is more affordable to choose from one's own wardrobe if possible.

Keeping Costs Down

The groom can give his groomsmen flexibility by allowing them to choose their own accessories, which can help keep costs down.

Gifts as Accessories

The groom may also choose to gift some accessories to his groomsmen. This can be a thoughtful way to thank his groomsmen for their support and ensure a coordinated look. Personalized or custom accessories, such as cufflinks, watches, suspenders, and socks, can be gifted to the groomsmen to wear at the wedding and keep as mementos.

Group Gifts

Groomsmen can also save money by purchasing accessories in bulk or by chipping in for group gifts.

Pre-Owned Accessories

Another option for keeping costs down is to buy pre-owned accessories.

Borrowed Accessories

Groomsmen could also consider borrowing accessories from friends or family, which can be a cost-effective option.

Frequently asked questions