Guidelines for the Best Man

So, you have been asked to be the best man in your friends wedding. Congratulations! This is an honor to be sure. There are many responsibilities involved in performing the duties of Best Man. From the first toast at the rehearsal dinner to the newlywed send off, the Best Man is an integral position throughout the wedding. Arrangements The Best Man is responsible for checking that all travel arrangements are verified and set. He must also assure that the groom possesses all the money, reservations, and tickets for the planned honeymoon. Marriage License Ensuring that the groom has possession of the marriage license at all times is the duty of the Best Man. The wedding day would be a poor time to not be able to find the license. Available The groom will be attended by the Best Man throughout this most important day. The Best Man will ride with the groom to the ceremony. He will run any errands for the groom and basically be on alert for any way to support the groom. Should he be asked to do something by the mothers of the bride and groom while at the church, the Best Man must do as requested. Fees Before the ceremony the Best Man obtains the minister fee from the groom. After the ceremony the Best Man hands over the ministerial fees, in private, to the officiate. Baggage The Best Man should help the groom pack for the upcoming honeymoon before the ceremony. He is also responsible for arranging the luggage of both the groom and the bride, so that all will be ready for their departure. The Best Man takes care of all errands so that newly-weds will have a perfect, smooth honeymoon departure. Dress Before the ceremony the Best Man aids the groom with dressing. He makes certain nothing is hanging imperfectly, that all buttons are buttoned etc. Ring Bearer The Best Man is responsible for the child. He assures that the child is there when needed and that the child understands his part in the ceremony. Ushers Assuring that the ushers are ready and organized is the duty of the Best Man. He must make sure they are all there on time and ready to perform their duties. Various Duties Boutonnieres are to be worn stem down on the left lapel. The Best Man should constantly check that the flower is appropriately displayed. If the groom is wearing gloves, prompt the groom to remove them as the bride walks down the aisle. The Best Man should be the first person to welcome the newlyweds at the reception. Toast The traditional first toast at the reception is made by the Best Man as is the first toast at the rehearsal dinner. Humorous or serious, it should be from the heart wishing the newlyweds a joyous future together. Being Best Man for your friend is a complex duty. You are supporting the groom, organizing the male half of the wedding party and assuring the smooth departure of the newlyweds to the honeymoon. You are being honored by your friend and in turn you honor him by making his wedding day perfect.