The best man – your role at the wedding

You’ve been chosen as a key player. Here’s how to get it right!

First of all, congratulations! Being asked to be a best man is something of an honour. A groom will only choose someone he fully trusts to be at his side on his wedding day. If you've accepted the task, it's important to know exactly what's expected of you. A great best man can make a wedding day even more fantastic.

Know your role

While the bride is supported by her bridesmaids, you're there as the groom's escort. And, as well as being his trusty sidekick, you have some important duties. You'll be a great support during the planning of the big day and, on the day itself you'll stand with the groom before the ceremony begins, hand over the wedding rings, escort the chief bridesmaid down the aisle and, of course, make a witty speech during the reception!

Do's and don'ts

In need of a quick checklist? Follow these essential pointers...

Do...

• Support the groom throughout the planning
• Organise the stag night
• Make sure the ushers are also well organised
• Stay with the groom the night before the wedding
• Get him to the church on time!
• Hand over the wedding rings
• Walk the chief bridesmaid down the aisle
• Make a well-composed, witty speech
• Dance with the chief bridesmaid
• Make sure any hired suits are returned after the big day

 

Don't...

• Arrange a drunken stag night the night before the wedding
• Make an inappropriately rude speech
• Drink too much... at least not until you've finished your speech!

To find all you need to know about how to carry out your best man's duties, try Confetti's Best Man's Speech & Duties book.