The Definitive Checklist of Groomsmen Duties

Whatever form your wedding party takes, whether it's the classic bridesmaids and groomsmen, mixed gender, or something a little more modern (we're all for a best woman or a man of honour!) there are key best man jobs and groomsmen duties that the wedding party traditionally fulfils. While all might not apply to your big day, we've compiled the ultimate groomsmen duties checklist so you don't miss anything, and ensure your groom has the best - and most stress-free - day ever!

Groomsmen Duties Checklist

Image by Gianmarco Vetrano via One Fab Day

Groomsmen Duties Before the Wedding

• Plan the stag do (obvs).
• Attend any suit fittings - or source your own suit if required.
• Make sure you've got all the right accessories, tie, socks, cufflinks, pocket square, the right colour shoes etc.
• Stay in touch with the groom regularly and offer to help. (Offer to take specific jobs off his hands!)
• Attend all pre-wedding activities: the engagement party, the stag, rehearsals, wedding party pictures.
• Get a good wedding gift.
• Be available to run errands and make necessary pickups in the days before the wedding.
• Get a timeline of the day, and the contact details of key suppliers.
• Help bring decorations and/or equipment to the venue and help set up.
• Offer to pick up any guests coming from abroad from the airport.

Groomsmen Duties On the Wedding Day Morning

• Be with the groom getting ready and ensure he's had a good breakfast.
• Do any last minute dashes for missing socks/underwear/cufflinks.
• Gather any items the photographer might need for photos - rings, accessories etc.
• Keep the area tidy for the photos.
• Pour some drinks or order snacks and tea/coffees to the room.
• Ensure the groom has his overnight bag if needed and put it in the car.
• If the couple are getting ready separately and exchanging gifts/letters, deliver the gift/letter.
• Ensure the groom gets to the ceremony on time (at least a half hour before the ceremony start time).
• Act as usher and greeter: escort guests to their seats.
• Make sure the transportation runs smoothly.
• Most of all - be helpful and simply act as a good friend to the groom and calm any last minute nerves!

Image by Craig & Eva Sanders via One Fab Day

Groomsmen Duties at the Wedding Reception

• Know the venue(s) well to answer questions, such as where the toilets are and access for guests with additional needs.
• Be helpful on the day and on hand to assist with any hiccups.
• Give the wedding officiant and vendors their payment envelope (and tips).
• Collect gifts and cards on the wedding day and keep them safe.
• Decorate the wedding car.
• Help round guests up for the group photos.
• Make a speech, if requested to.
• If the couple are doing a traditional first dance, the groomsmen should come in and dance with a bridesmaid half way through the the first dance.
• Help make sure everyone's having a good time, keep the dancefloor filled, get guests mingling etc.

Groomsmen Duties the Next Day

• Help clean up and take down decor after the wedding, and offer to transport it where it needs to go.
• Give the gifts and cards to the couple.
• Return the suits to the rental store.

Image by Paul Mcginty Photography via One Fab Day

Extra Jobs for the Best Man

• Give a speech at the rehearsal dinner (more of an US tradition, but if applicable!).
• Take care of the wedding rings for the ceremony.
• Prepare and deliver a best man speech and toast - get lots of tips on that here!
• Witness the signing of the marriage license.
• Look after the marriage license.
• Be there for your groom, make sure he's got a drink and is having a good time!

Love a good list? Find lots more helpful planning checklists in our Wedding Planning & Advice section.