In all the wedding planning, the groom is often forgotten, so here are 14 important tips for a groom.
Magazines talk about venues, dresses, flowers, makeup and basically everything that a bride should think about, but they hardly ever mention what the groom needs to consider.
So here are some tips for a groom:
Help your b2b: Yes, statistics show that 90% of the wedding planning is done by the bride, but that doesn’t mean you should sit back and let it all happen. Be involved! Know the schedule for the day. Help her choose suppliers and offer total support in every aspect of the planning process. She will love you even more for doing so!
Twinkle toes: If you are having a bridal dance at the reception, then it is a good idea to do some dance lessons together. This not only wows the guests, but is great fun and will build your confidence.
Timing of bucks party: Ensure it isn’t too close to the wedding day so that you are at your best on the day you marry your love.
Treat your soon to be wife: The ladies normally have a very hectic wedding day. How amazing would it be if you arranged a small gift for her to open on the day. A special perfume, piece of jewellery (but be careful as she will have a theme in mind), flowers and one of the most memorable gifts is a letter or card. Arrange it so she opens it just before leaving for the ceremony and include reasons why you love her and your favourite memories that you share.
The A team: It isn’t just brides who need a girl tribe! A groom needs an entourage made up of his best buds or family members as well. Choose carefully as you will want some support throughout the wedding process.
Gifts for your mates: Have a good think about what sort of gift would suit your groomsmen and ensure you get them in plenty of time prior to the wedding.
Allow enough time: Ensure you are ready at least an hour before it is time to leave for the ceremony – you can’t be late! Your bride can! If the photographer is coming over, talk to them about timing if you are after ‘getting ready’ photos.
Look fantastic: Learn how to tie a tie BEFORE the morning of the wedding (and pocket squares). Ensure your clothes are pressed and that they fit properly. (I have seen a number of grooms squeeze into hire suits that they didn’t try on before the day – not a good look!).
Pamper yourself: Take the lads to a trendy barber, go for a massage, have a special night out with the boys.
Don’t wing it!: Your wedding day is not the day to wing your vows to your almost wife or to make a speech without thinking about the content. It can end in disaster! Think about what you want to say and write it down – read it – then keep changing it until it feels right. Oh, and don’t forget to bring your vows on the day – send them to your celebrant so they can print them for you.
Limit the drinks: On the morning of the big day by all means have a nerve soother drink, but remember that if you have too many, the celebrant can refuse to marry you! Not a good start to your married life! Drink plenty of water instead.
Who has the rings? Ensure the rings actually arrive at the ceremony location. I have seen them left behind a number of times!
Greet the guests: It is the grooms job to greet the guests and let them know they are in the right place, so ensure you are at the ceremony location at least 30 – 45 minutes before.
Relax and enjoy the day: Easier said than done! But once you are standing up the front, the music starts and you get your first glimpse of your beautiful bride, there is nothing more for you to do except dry the tears of joy and love from your eyes and watch her come towards you.
See the updated version of important tips for a groom here