Groomsman Etiquette

Support the groom by carrying out the traditional functions of a groomsmen properly

By Alan Kirk

Photo by Jen Huang Photography

The groomsmen at a wedding offer a variety of services to both the bride and groom, as well as the guests. The groomsmen help to make the guests feel welcome, and serve as moral support for the groom and bride.

Time Frame

The groomsmen should arrive well in advance of the wedding ceremony, and usually at a time requested by the wedding couple. This allows groomsmen to assist the groom and bride as needed. It also allows the wedding photographer to take photographs before the ceremony with the entire wedding party.

Identification

The groomsmen wear tuxedos, or other attire, depending on what the bride and groom choose. When wearing vests with the tuxedos, the color of the groom's vest is typically different than the groomsmen's.

Function

The groomsmen serve as ushers for the wedding. They accompany guests down the aisle, assisting to seat them before the wedding. The groomsmen should help make the guests feel comfortable, including having a short conversation on the way to their seat. They should also be available to provide driving directions from the wedding location to the reception location.

Costs

The groomsmen are expected to pay for their own expenses incurred in preparing for their roles for the wedding. These include the cost of either renting or purchasing a tuxedo, as well as any transportation and hotel costs to attend the wedding.

Misconceptions

It is not required to have the same number of groomsmen as bridesmaids. The groomsmen should be prepared to either escort two bridesmaids down the aisle, or for two groomsmen to walk down the aisle with one bridesmaid.