The Best Man's Role: Where He Stands

The best man is the groom's right-hand man and plays a crucial role in the wedding. He is responsible for a variety of tasks, including planning the bachelor party, coordinating the groomsmen's outfits and travel accommodations, and providing emotional support to the groom. During the wedding ceremony, the best man traditionally stands next to the groom, symbolizing his place of honour and support. He also holds the wedding rings and presents them during the ring exchange. After the ceremony, the best man may escort the maid of honour and sign the marriage certificate as a witness. The best man's duties extend beyond the ceremony, as he is expected to give a speech, dance with the maid of honour, and ensure the groom is well taken care of throughout the reception.

During the ceremony

The best man is also responsible for keeping the wedding rings safe until they are needed during the ceremony. In some cases, the best man may be asked to hold other items for the groom, such as his phone, wallet, or vows.

In addition to standing by the groom's side, the best man may also be called upon to sign the marriage license as a witness, along with the maid of honour. This is an important duty, as without the signed marriage license, the couple is not legally married.

The best man should also be prepared to step in and emcee if there are any last-minute issues with the DJ or band.

While the bridal party traditionally stands during the ceremony, it is not necessary. For example, in a full Catholic mass, the bridal party may be asked to remain seated. Ultimately, the decision of whether the bridal party stands or sits during the ceremony is up to the couple.

Signing the marriage certificate

The best man has a crucial role to play in the wedding ceremony, and one of his most important duties is signing the marriage certificate as a legal witness. Here is a detailed breakdown of what this entails:

Before the Wedding

The best man should familiarise himself with the legal requirements for signing the marriage certificate. In most states, two witnesses are required to sign the marriage license, and these are usually the maid of honour and the best man. However, this can vary, so it is important to check the specific rules for the state or country where the wedding is taking place. The best man should also ensure that he has the necessary identification to act as a witness.

During the Wedding Ceremony

The best man will traditionally stand next to the groom during the ceremony, which makes it easy to pass the rings to the groom when needed. At the appropriate moment, the best man will present the wedding rings for the ring exchange. After the ceremony, the best man, along with the maid of honour, will sign the marriage license as witnesses. This usually takes place either right before or immediately after the ceremony. It is a quick process, so the best man should ensure he is paying attention and does not miss his cue.

After the Wedding

Once the marriage license has been signed by the couple and the witnesses, it is the officiant's responsibility to return the document to the relevant authority, such as the county clerk's office. The couple will then receive their official marriage certificate.

In summary, the best man plays a vital role in the wedding ceremony by acting as a legal witness and signing the marriage license. By being organised and paying attention to the ceremony proceedings, the best man can ensure that he fulfils this important duty without a hitch.

Walking down the aisle

Before the Walk

It's essential to arrive at the wedding venue early, at least 45 minutes before the ceremony. Use this time to coordinate with the wedding planner, site manager, and the other groomsmen to ensure everyone is ready and on the same page. The best man should also take charge of the rings, ensuring they are secure and ready for the ring exchange.

During the Walk

The processional order can vary, but traditionally, the best man walks down the aisle with the maid of honor. They are usually the last pair to walk down before the bride makes her entrance. The best man should walk at a steady pace, maintaining a dignified and relaxed demeanor.

At the Altar

Once at the altar, the best man takes his place by the groom's side, symbolizing his support and honor on this special day. The best man may also be instructed by the officiant on where to sit or stand during the ceremony.

After the Ceremony

Following the ceremony, the best man traditionally escorts the maid of honor out of the wedding site and signs the marriage certificate as a witness. He may also be tasked with coordinating the wedding gifts and decorating or preparing the getaway car for the newlyweds.

Pairing Options

It's worth noting that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to the processional order. Some couples prefer to mix things up, such as having the best man walk with a groomsman or the ring bearer. If the best man and maid of honor are a couple, they may choose to walk down the aisle together, adding a unique and personal touch to the ceremony.

Ultimately, the role of the best man during the wedding ceremony is to provide support and assistance to the groom, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. By following the guidelines above and adapting to the specific needs of the couple, the best man can confidently navigate the aisle and fulfill his duties with ease.

Pre-wedding duties

Being the best man is an honour and a privilege, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. Here are some of the duties you will need to take care of before the wedding:

Be the Groom's Confidante and Personal Assistant:

As the best man, you are the groom's go-to person for emotional support and practical help during the wedding planning process. Be there to listen to his complaints, confessions, and answer any questions he may have. Help him with travel plans, hotel bookings, and other details. You can also suggest wedding venues or participate in venue visits and tasting sessions.

Lead and Coordinate the Groomsmen:

The best man is the head groomsman and is responsible for organising and leading the other groomsmen. This includes serving as a mediator between the groom and the groomsmen, answering their questions, and ensuring they stay on top of their duties. You will also need to coordinate their outfits, making sure they match the style and colour requested by the bride. Offer to organise a group fitting and gather each groomsman's measurements to share with the shop or tailor.

Plan the Bachelor Party:

Planning an unforgettable bachelor party is one of the best man's key responsibilities. Choose a date and budget, and work with the other groomsmen to plan the venue and activities. Make sure all attendees pay their fair share of the costs, except for the groom, of course.

Coordinate Travel and Accommodation:

If any of the groomsmen are travelling from out of town, it's the best man's job to help arrange their local accommodations. You may also be asked to help with transportation on the wedding day, such as driving the groomsmen to the ceremony or securing a car for the couple.

Attend Pre-Wedding Events:

The best man is expected to attend and assist with any pre-wedding events, such as the engagement party, wedding shower, ceremony rehearsal, and rehearsal dinner. This is a great opportunity to bond with the wedding party and the couple's families.

Be Prepared on the Wedding Day:

On the wedding day, arrive at the venue early (at least 45 minutes in advance) to coordinate with the wedding planner and site manager. Help the groom and groomsmen get ready, and make sure everyone is on schedule. Take charge of the rings, keeping them secure until it's time for the exchange of vows.

Post-wedding duties

While the best man's duties don't end after the wedding, they do become less demanding. Here is a list of the best man's post-wedding duties:

Check-in with Vendors

Once the party is over, the newlyweds will be ready to leave for their honeymoon without any interruptions. To ensure this, the best man is usually tasked with checking in with all the vendors to ensure that all wedding-related expenses are settled.

Coordinate and Decorate the Getaway Car

The best man may be asked to help coordinate car transportation for the newlyweds to leave the reception. They may also enlist the help of the rest of the wedding party to decorate the getaway car.

Take Care of the Groom's Clothing

If the couple is leaving for their honeymoon right after the wedding, the best man may be asked to take care of the groom's clothing. They should also ensure that any rented clothing is returned on time and in good condition.

Check-in with the Newlyweds

The best man should check in with the newlyweds after their honeymoon to offer congratulations and thanks.

Return Rental Items

The best man should assist with the cleanup and return of any rental items.

Frequently asked questions