Wedding Duties: Best Man’s Responsibility

5 Duties of the Best Man

Being asked to be a best man is a pretty big deal. It means that you are a reliable and trusted friend, chosen to help the groom on one of the most important days of his life. Luckily the job also involves being in charge of the FUN! You get to look forward to arranging the most epic bachelor’s party! Although it may be true that the best man doesn’t have that many responsibilities before the wedding; there are still a few duties to be fulfilled.

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1. Suit Up!

The Best Man’s first big duty is helping the Groom choose the men’s wedding suits. Consult with the Bride to ensure you can advise accordingly – she might want a specific colour or cut – make sure the Groom remembers that. Whether you rent or purchase suits can be discussed – offer to pay half for your own suit, if the suits are being purchased – you will get to keep the suit after all! It is your duty as best man to make sure that all the groomsmen look dapper in their suits on the wedding day.

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2. Get the Bachelor Party Started

Arguably one of the most fun duties of the best man is to organise the bachelor party. This is seen as the last big bash for your groom-friend to celebrate his pending nuptials. The stereotypical drunken bachelor’s party is not a must – you can choose to spend a fun day together playing paintball or at the go-cart track. Whether you go away for a weekend or have a ball at a bar, you don’t have to foot the entire bill. The cost of the festivities should generally be split between everyone who attends the party (except for the groom, whose cost should be covered).

3. During the Ceremony

The Best Man’s place is right next to the Groom awaiting the Bride. It is your responsibility to keep the Groom calm on the day, as the nerves are sure to be high. Support him, reassure him, and you could even arrange to have a beer with the Groom while you wait! There will be enough time, and will distract him from the nerves. You will also have the responsibility of keeping the Bride’s ring safe and holding it until the vows are exchanged (unless there is a ring bearer). In some cases, the Best Man will sign the marriage license with the Maid of Honour as witnesses unless the Couple wants their parents to witness.

4. The Best Man Speech

The Couple usually asks the Best Man to make a toast to the Groom or the Couple. If you are asked to make a toast, write your speech well in advance and practice! It is perfectly acceptable to tell a story or two of the Groom. It can be very endearing, but keep it clean – there’s no sense in embarrassing the Groom too much! The Best Man should also take the Maid of Honour for a spin on the dance floor.

5. Arrange Transport

Drive the couple to the hotel or airport after the reception. If you perform this service, you’ll need to stay sober throughout the reception. If you have a feeling this may not be possible; hire transport to ensure the couple’s safety as they embark on their journey.