What’s a groom to do before the big day?
Well, it turns out quite a bit! But don’t fret, if you keep organised and communicate with the bride throughout the planning process, you’ll be able to pull off the best day of your new lives together in a sinch! Take a look at our groom-to-be checklist for tips on what to stay on top of as you prepare for the big day…
> 12 Months
- Discuss budget and who will be paying for what expenses
- Research potential venues and locations for ceremony/reception and book
- Choose best man and groomsmen
- Choose Ushers (at least 1 per 50 guests)
- Check out gift registries with fiancée
- Discuss honeymoon plans and budget
9 Months
- Start making the guest list with fiancée
- Help collect guest addresses
- Research and book Photographers & Videographers with fiancée
- Research and book wedding band/DJ or other entertainment with fiancée
6 Months
- Book appointments for suit fittings
- Organise groomsmen’s suits & appointments
- Start organizing honeymoon plans (flights, accommodation, romantic surprises etc.)
- Arrange wedding transport
- Start planning stag party with best man
- Check marriage license requirements
- Attend pre-marriage counselling (if required by church)
3 Months
- Order Wedding Bands
- Arrange to pay for the bride’s bouquet
- Arrange boutonnieres for your groomsmen/ushers and corsages for mothers of the bride and groom
- Attend menu tasting
- Help fiancee with wedding invitations
6-8 Weeks
- Plan and organise wedding rehearsal dinner with your parents
- Discuss with fiancée and arrange accommodation for relatives or VIP guests from out of town
- Purchase wedding gift for the bride
- Purchase best man and groomsmen gifts
- Pick up the wedding rings
2-3 Weeks
- Pick up the marriage license with fiancée
- Start writing wedding vows
- Plan a romantic pre-wedding date with the bride
- Attend stag party and have a good (responsible) time
- Arrange transportation for any VIP guests from the airport to accommodation/wedding location
- Double-check honeymoon reservations
1 Week
- Pick up suits with best man and groomsmen
- Remind your men of rehearsal details and times
- Check plans and prepare for rehearsal dinner
- Communicate with head usher on and special seating arrangements
- Arrange for rental returns
- Pack bag for wedding day/weekend
- Pack for honeymoon
- Plan Wedding toast
- Pay for any services/suppliers that need payment before the day
- Prepare day of cash payments
Day of
- Take a deep breath
- Check last-minute details
- Look snazzy
- Write a special pre-ceremony note to the bride
- Check the best man has the rings!
- Say ‘I Do’ and enjoy the best day ever!
Whether your big day is a couple of months away or even a year or two, we’re certain we can help. Check out the WeddingDates Planning Portal to ensure your wedding day is perfect!
Photo by Simon Hattinga Verschure on Unsplash
