Best Man Gifts: Thoughtful Ideas For Your Wedding Crew

The best man has a lot of responsibilities, from planning the bachelor party to being the groom's right-hand man throughout the wedding planning process and on the big day itself. So, when it comes to showing appreciation for all their hard work, what are some thoughtful gift ideas?

Gifts for the best man can range from personalised keepsakes that remind them of the fun of the bachelor party to practical items they can use on the wedding day and beyond. Here are some ideas:

- Custom engraved watches

- Classy cufflinks

- Stylish flasks

- Engraved money clips

- Personalised card cases

- Swiss Army knives

- Engraved beer mugs

- Personalised wallets

- Gift box sets

- Sports-themed items

- Travel bags

- Sunglasses

- Accessories

- Socks

- Shirts

The timing of presenting gifts is also important. Here are some suggestions:

- At the bachelor party

- During the rehearsal dinner

- On the morning of the wedding

- At a private moment before the wedding

Gifts for the groom

As the best man, you play a crucial role in the groom's wedding. From planning the bachelor party to standing by the groom's side as he takes his vows, you are there to support and celebrate with him. Giving the groom a thoughtful gift is a wonderful way to show your appreciation and mark this special occasion. Here are some unique and memorable gift ideas to consider:

Personalised Gifts

A personalised gift adds a special touch and showcases your thoughtfulness. Consider a monogrammed or engraved item, such as a pocket watch, wristwatch, cufflinks, or a wallet. You can include the groom's initials, the wedding date, or a heartfelt message to make it even more meaningful. Another idea is to gift the groom a custom artwork piece that captures a special memory or moment shared between the two of you.

Experience Gifts

If the groom is an adventure seeker, consider gifting him an experience such as a hot air balloon ride, rock climbing excursion, or a gourmet food and wine tasting tour. These experiences create lasting memories and offer a unique way to celebrate. Alternatively, you could treat the groom to a relaxing spa day or a round of golf.

Practical Gifts

A practical gift is always useful and appreciated. Consider the groom's daily needs and hobbies when selecting a practical gift. Some ideas include a high-quality toiletry bag, a durable travel mug, or a stylish belt. If the groom is a whiskey connoisseur, a set of engraved whiskey glasses or a personalised decanter set is an excellent choice. For the groom who loves to cook, unique kitchen gadgets or a gourmet food basket filled with delectable treats will surely be enjoyed.

Sentimental Gifts

A sentimental gift is a wonderful way to tug at the groom's heartstrings. Consider a personalised photo album filled with memories and heartfelt messages or a custom-framed map of a significant location, such as his hometown or the wedding venue. Alternatively, a heartfelt handwritten note expressing your gratitude and celebrating your friendship can be a meaningful addition to any gift.

Fun Gifts

Add a touch of fun to your gift selection! If the groom is a gaming enthusiast, consider a gaming console or accessories. For a lighthearted gift, opt for a pair of novelty socks or a humorous t-shirt. These gifts are sure to bring a smile to the groom's face and make the occasion even more enjoyable.

Bachelor party planning

Planning a bachelor party can be a daunting task, but it's also a great opportunity to create lasting memories with the groom and the rest of the groomsmen. Here are some detailed instructions and ideas to help you plan an unforgettable bachelor party:

Choose a Date and Location:

• Pick a date that works for everyone: Consider the schedules and budgets of all the groomsmen and try to choose a date that accommodates everyone's availability.
• Discuss the groom's preferences: Talk to the groom about the type of bachelor party he envisions. Does he want to stay local or travel somewhere? Would he prefer a wild party or a more low-key gathering?
• Select a location that suits the groom's interests: If the groom enjoys outdoor activities, consider a camping or fishing trip. If he's a foodie, plan a culinary-themed weekend.

Create a Guest List:

• Consult with the groom: Ask him for a list of people he would like to attend. This may include the groomsmen, close friends, and family members.
• Get input from the groomsmen: Collaborate with the groomsmen to ensure that the guest list includes everyone who is important to the groom.

Set a Budget:

• Discuss financial contributions: Be open about financial expectations and contributions, especially if there are costs involved for travel, accommodation, or activities.
• Consider everyone's budget: Try to plan activities that are affordable for all attendees. If some groomsmen have budget constraints, opt for a location or activities that are more budget-friendly.

Plan Activities:

• Personalize the party: Think of ways to make the bachelor party unique and tailored to the groom's interests. This could include a golf outing, a whiskey-tasting session, or a concert.
• Include a mix of activities: Offer a variety of options to cater to different interests. For example, you could have a day of outdoor activities followed by a nice dinner and a night out.

Handle Logistics:

• Book accommodations: If travelling, make sure to book accommodations well in advance to secure the best options for your group.
• Plan transportation: Arrange transportation to and from the venue or between activities. This could include car rentals, ride-sharing services, or public transportation.
• Organize food and drinks: Decide on dining options, including restaurants, catering, or cooking your own meals. Don't forget to include the groom's favourite snacks or drinks!

Prepare Gifts and Favours:

• Personalized gifts: Consider giving the groom and groomsmen personalized gifts, such as engraved flasks, custom cufflinks, or stylish wallets. These can be presented during the bachelor party or at a private moment before the wedding.
• Party favours: Provide fun favours for the attendees, such as custom T-shirts, beer mugs, or hangover kits.

Create a Schedule:

• Timeline for the day: Create a schedule for the bachelor party to ensure everything runs smoothly. This includes arrival times, meal times, and any planned activities.
• Allow for flexibility: While having a schedule is important, leave some room for spontaneity. The groom and groomsmen might want to extend an activity or add something last-minute.

Capture the Memories:

• Designate a photographer: Assign someone to take photos or hire a professional photographer to capture the special moments.
• Create a shared album: After the party, collect photos from all the attendees and create a shared album or slideshow to preserve the memories.

Remember, the most important aspect of planning a bachelor party is to ensure the groom has a fantastic time and feels celebrated. By following these steps and adding your personal touches, you'll create an unforgettable bachelor party that the groom and groomsmen will cherish for years to come!

Groomsmen attire

Planning and Coordination:

The best man typically takes the lead in organising the groomsmen attire. It's essential to start by communicating with the groom to understand his preferences and the overall style or theme of the wedding. Once a decision is made, the best man should ensure that all groomsmen order or rent their attire in a timely manner and allow for any necessary alterations.

Suit Trends:

For a modern look, consider the following trends:

• Loafers, especially penny loafers, are a popular choice for 2024, perfect for cocktail attire or less formal weddings.
• Double-breasted suits continue to be a stylish option, offering a top-tier suiting look.
• Boho style brings a unique touch with wide-brim hats, flowy linen suits, and statement accessories.
• Suit separates are a great way to mix and match, pairing blazers with chinos or dress pants in different colours, and even forgoing ties.

Colour Coordination:

Colour coordination is key to achieving a cohesive look for the groomsmen. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Contrasting suit colours that draw from a shared colour palette, such as dressing the groom in brown and the groomsmen in tan.
• For semi-formal weddings, neutral colours like tan jackets and black pants provide a classic base for accessories like boutonnieres to stand out.
• If the groom opts for a white tuxedo, the groomsmen can wear navy tuxedos with shawl collars for a stylish alternative to traditional black tie attire.
• Matching ties in a solid colour are a classic choice, but you can also go for ties in different colours to incorporate the wedding colours or seasonal tones.

Accessories and Details:

Adding accessories is a great way to elevate the groomsmen's look and bring their outfits together:

• Vests and suspenders can add a formal touch, with the groom wearing a vest while the groomsmen don suspenders.
• Matching shoes, such as suede loafers, can create a modern and suave look for the groomsmen.
• Boutonnieres are a timeless accessory, adding a special touch to the groomsmen's suits.
• For a fun twist, incorporate unique accessories like stylish gold brooches or matching bolo ties, especially for a western-themed wedding.

Personal Style:

Allowing the groomsmen to bring their personal style to their outfits can make for a memorable and diverse wedding party:

• If the groom trusts his groomsmen's fashion sense, he can provide a simple guideline, such as a specific colour or style of suit, and let them style themselves.
• For black-tie dress codes, while the style may be more rigid, there is still room for personal touches, like coordinating accessories unique to the wedding party.
• For a spring or summer wedding, light blue suits are a fun and festive colour option.
• A navy sport coat with khaki chinos is a timeless preppy choice for semi-formal weddings.

Mismatched Suits:

Mismatched suits can add interest and personality to the groomsmen's attire:

• For a unique take on coordination, dress the groomsmen in suits that share a tone or colour palette, such as pastels or bold colours like pinks, blues, and purples.
• Black-on-black suits are a cool and sleek look, with black dress shirts, suits, and ties.
• Floral ties add a pop of colour and are perfect for spring and summer weddings.
• Bolo ties are a fun alternative to traditional neckties and can be used to incorporate a western theme.

Classic Choices:

If you want to stick with traditional options, you can't go wrong with these classic groomsmen attire ideas:

• Simple black tuxedos are always elegant and timeless.
• For semi-formal weddings, the groom can differentiate himself by wearing a tie while the groomsmen go open-collar.
• Three-piece suits with vests underneath the jackets elevate the formality and sophistication of the groomsmen's look.
• Matching boutonnieres add a timeless and stylish touch to the groomsmen's suits.

Comfort and Functionality:

It's important to consider the comfort and functionality of the groomsmen's attire, especially for outdoor weddings or those with a lot of movement:

• Suits with sneakers combine formal and informal vibes, offering a comfortable and stylish option for the groomsmen.
• For a small group of groomsmen, their suits don't have to match perfectly. Accessories like bolo ties and boutonnieres can be used to tie the outfits together.

Wedding rings

As the best man at a wedding, you'll have a pivotal role in proceedings, especially when it comes to safeguarding the wedding rings. Traditionally, the best man is entrusted with the rings, ensuring they are presented at the crucial moment when the couple exchanges them.

Here's a quick guide to wedding rings to help you navigate your responsibility with poise and ensure the rings are presented when needed:

Classic Metal Wedding Bands

Classic metal wedding bands are a popular and enduring favourite. They are typically made from polished precious metals like gold, sterling silver, or platinum, and have no other features or embellishments like texture, stones, or engravings. They range from narrow to wide, with varying shapes or profiles. The profile refers to the shape of the ring on the outside, ranging from a high dome (like a D-shape) to a low dome (thinner with no lift off the finger). Most people tend to opt for something in the middle—a slightly domed ring with a subtle curve.

Modern Men's Wedding Rings

Many modern wedding rings play around with texture, including brushed metal, which gives a flat matte finish, and hammered metal rings, which have a rustic appearance. Some modern rings also mix metals, like black tungsten contrasted with a strip of rose gold, creating a striking look. Rings with a flatter profile also tend to look more minimal and modern.

Diamond Wedding Rings

More men are choosing wedding bands that feature a little or a lot of sparkle. Options range from understated—simple bands with a single set diamond—to opulent—channel-set diamond wedding bands with sparkle all the way around the ring. Platinum and white gold bands set off the brilliance of diamonds beautifully, but yellow gold and rose gold are also great options for men who prefer warmer colours against their skin.

Black Wedding Bands

Black wedding bands for men have become increasingly popular due to their striking, masculine look. Black wedding bands can be made from a variety of metals, including tungsten, titanium, tantalum, and cobalt, which are coated to make them black. They can be polished for a high-shine finish or brushed for a matte finish. Black metal rings are more affordable than gold and platinum but are usually not resizable and may be more prone to damage like chipping and scratching.

Unique Men's Wedding Rings

If you're after something offbeat and unexpected, there are plenty of choices for unique wedding rings.

• Engraved wedding rings: From vintage-style engravings to Celtic patterns and braiding, there are many ways to add texture and interest to your wedding ring. You can also have a personalised message engraved on your ring.
• Link edge wedding rings: These rings use state-of-the-art technology and craftsmanship to create a linked chain look, using a single metal or mixed metals for contrast.
• Textured wedding rings: While some may prefer the smooth sheen of a polished metal ring, others might opt for a more textured look, such as brushed metal, sandblasted, hammered, or satin finish rings.
• Two-tone wedding rings: Mixing metals like white gold and yellow gold offers an alternative to traditional, single-metal bands. This can be a great option for those who like to wear a variety of jewellery, allowing them to mix and match.

Width and Size

The width of the ring is a personal choice, depending on your preference for the look and feel on your hand. Narrow rings are usually about 4mm wide, medium width rings are about 6mm, and wide rings are about 8mm. Guys with larger hands will generally suit a wider ring, while those with finer fingers will prefer a narrower band.

There is no standard ring size, so it's important to get the right fit. You can order a ring sizer online or visit your local jeweller. You're aiming for a comfortable fit that is snug enough to stay on your finger but not so tight that it can't slide over your knuckle.

Metals

When choosing a metal for your wedding ring, you may want to do some research to find the best option for you. Here are some popular metals to consider:

• Platinum: Platinum is the most popular choice for wedding rings. It has a naturally white sheen that will never fade, corrode, or discolour, and it highlights the brilliance of diamonds perfectly. Platinum is also hypoallergenic and easy on the skin, making it the most expensive metal for wedding rings.
• White Gold: If platinum is beyond your budget, white gold is a good alternative. It is more affordable because it is usually made from a mix of metals, including pure gold, nickel, silver, or palladium, with rhodium plating. White gold is also more lightweight than platinum. However, white gold wedding bands can fade and change colour over time.
• Yellow Gold: For those who prefer warmer metals, a yellow gold wedding band may be the perfect choice. Yellow gold is resistant to rust, tarnish, and corrosion, so it will stand the test of time. Gold is naturally softer than platinum but still very durable, with 14 karat being the most popular choice for men's wedding rings.
• Rose Gold: Rose gold has gained popularity in recent years due to its warm, romantic hue. It is usually made from a mixture of copper, gold, and sometimes a small amount of silver, and it looks especially good on warmer, deeper skin tones.
• Tungsten: This forged metal is a popular choice for men's wedding rings as it is designed to last a lifetime. Tungsten comes in a range of grey and white tones, and it is strong, hypoallergenic, and scratch-resistant, making it a great choice for those with an active lifestyle.
• Titanium: Titanium is an incredibly strong metal used in engineering and aerospace. Men's titanium wedding rings are 99% pure and nickel-free, making them perfect for everyday wear.
• Tantalum: Tantalum is dense, shatterproof, and extremely malleable, making it a good choice for those who want a scratch-resistant ring. It can also be given a black ceramic glaze for a striking look.
• Cobalt: Cobalt wedding rings are harder than platinum but less expensive, and they are also hypoallergenic.

Cost

According to research, the average cost of a men's wedding band is $478. However, wedding rings can range from as little as $150 up to $3,500 or more, depending on factors such as the type of metal and the use of diamonds or gemstones.

Best man speech

So, your best bud has chosen you to be his best man—congratulations! Now, it's time to talk about your best man duties and responsibilities. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you deliver an amazing best man speech and ensure you ace your role as the groom's right-hand man.

Before the Wedding

As the best man, your pre-wedding responsibilities include providing moral support to the groom, leading the groomsmen, shopping for formal wear, serving as a counsellor, coordinating travel arrangements, and, of course, planning the infamous bachelor party!

Provide Moral Support:

Even before you're officially appointed as the best man, the groom might seek your help in selecting an engagement ring. Be there for him, offer your honest opinions, and provide a voice of reason during this stressful process.

Lead the Groomsmen:

Introduce yourself to the other groomsmen and facilitate introductions among the group. If you all live nearby, suggest meeting up for drinks so everyone can get acquainted. If you're scattered across different locations, start an email chain or group chat to get the conversation flowing.

Shop for Formal Wear:

Assist the groom in selecting the wedding attire for the groomsmen. Help choose between a tux or suit, necktie or bow tie, and ensure that each groomsman orders their attire promptly. Don't forget about alterations! Make sure the groomsmen's suits are tailored and received on time.

Serve as Counsellor and Confidant:

Wedding planning can be stressful. The groom will rely on you to help him make decisions, solve problems, and provide a supportive ear throughout the process. Be there for him, even if wedding planning isn't your cup of tea.

Coordinate Travel and Accommodations:

If the wedding involves travel, ensure that you and the groomsmen book flights and hotels promptly. Jump on any room blocks and accommodations arranged by the couple for out-of-town guests. You can even help groomsmen pair up to share hotel rooms or rental cars to cut costs.

Plan the Bachelor Party:

This is one of the best man's most important duties. Organise the bachelor party with the help of the groomsmen, but be sure to talk to the groom in advance about his preferences. Does he want to travel or stay local? Wild party or something low-key? Plan an event that suits the groom's style and is mindful of everyone's schedules and budgets.

During the Wedding

On the wedding day, your duties include creating an emergency kit, getting dressed with the groomsmen and groom, ensuring everyone is wearing their boutonnieres, keeping things on schedule, holding the wedding rings, standing next to the groom, and, of course, delivering your epic best man speech!

Create a Best Man Emergency Kit:

Head to a drugstore the week before the wedding and stock up on essentials like spray deodorant, bandages, tissues, pain relievers, a stain remover, sewing kit, and even an extra pair of socks and a tie. Don't forget some cash for last-minute needs!

Get Dressed with the Groomsmen and Groom:

Be a relaxed and upbeat presence on the morning of the wedding, especially if the groom is feeling nervous. Play music, crack open some beers, or break out some games to keep the atmosphere light and fun.

Ensure Groomsmen Wear Their Boutonnieres:

Make sure all the groomsmen have their boutonnieres pinned on properly before walking down the aisle.

Keep Things on Schedule:

Ask the couple for a timeline of the day's events in advance, and gently nudge people along if they're goofing off instead of lining up for photos or being where they should be. Introduce yourself to the venue coordinator and offer your assistance.

Hold the Wedding Rings:

One of your most vital duties is to keep the wedding rings safe until the ring exchange during the ceremony. Keep them in a secure place, like your inner jacket pocket, and be aware of their whereabouts at all times.

Stand Next to the Groom:

Your presence next to the groom during the ceremony is a clear display of your love and support. Stand up straight, look interested, and smile! During the processional, the best man usually walks down the aisle solo, but he'll likely be paired with the maid of honour during the recessional.

Deliver a Best Man Speech:

This is your moment to shine! Traditionally, the best man gives the second toast after the father of the bride. Speak from the heart, keep it short, and don't procrastinate on writing your speech.

After the Wedding

Even after the wedding celebrations, your duties aren't quite over. You may be tasked with helping to organise and safeguard gifts, handing out vendor tips, and ensuring groomsmen return rented attire.

Help Organise and Safekeep Gifts:

The couple has likely received a plethora of gifts. Ensure these gifts are collected and kept in a safe location, especially if the couple leaves for their honeymoon right away.

Hand Out Vendor Tips:

The couple may ask you to distribute tips to vendors. Make sure the cash is organised into labelled envelopes, and you know exactly who to hand them to.

Ensure Groomsmen Return Rented Attire:

If you coordinated a group tuxedo rental, it's your responsibility to ensure all the tuxes are returned on time. Send a few reminders to the groomsmen to avoid late return fees.

Now you know what to expect and how to prepare for your best man duties, including delivering a memorable speech. Remember to enjoy the process and savour these special moments with your friend!

Frequently asked questions