The Duties of the Bestman
Image by Laura Mary
The Bestman is traditionally the groom's brother or close friend. Some grooms choose their father, or two brothers or friends to fill this role.
His job is to give help to the groom, both before and during the wedding.
Before the wedding
- The best man helps coordinate the groom's attire and schedules fittings and clothing pickups and returns the suit to the formal wear shop after the wedding if they have been hired.
- Plans the bachelor party.
- He organizes the ushers at the church.
- He gives the groom moral support before the wedding and makes sure the groom gets to the church on time.
- Sits with the groom until the bride arrives.
During the ceremony
- He ensures that all ushers are properly dressed.
- Keeps the rings safe and accessible until need during the ceremony.
- Signs the marriage license as a witness.
- Passes the envelope with the officiant's fee to the officiant after the ceremony.
During the reception
- The best man may be announced as he enters the reception.
- Gives the first toast at the reception.
- Dances the first dance with the maid or matron of honor.
Pays for
- Contributes to the cost of the bachelor party.
- Pays for the hire of his clothing or purchase.