Weddings today aren’t just about the bride. In fact, modern couples are embracing a more balanced approach to wedding planning, with both partners actively involved in every step. Gone are the days when the groom was expected to simply show up on the big day. Now, grooms are stepping up, taking charge of responsibilities, and sharing the workload with their future spouse.
This groom’s guide covers everything you need to know—from selecting your groomsmen to planning the honeymoon. Whether you’re hands-on or new to this role, the following checklist will help you stay on track and ensure your wedding runs smoothly.
Why Grooms Should Be Involved
Being involved in wedding planning isn’t just helpful—it’s a sign of respect, commitment, and teamwork. Your partner will appreciate your support, and you’ll both enjoy the experience more if you handle it together. This groom’s guide isn’t just about tasks; it’s about partnership and planning a day that represents you both.
1. Choosing the Wedding Date and Venue
One of the first decisions you’ll make as a couple is choosing the wedding date and venue. Be sure to consider the season, budget, and the availability of friends and family. This isn’t just the bride’s choice—both of you should visit venues, compare pricing, and talk through the options.
Take notes during venue tours, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about logistics, capacity, and rules. A proactive groom helps make the planning process smoother.
2. Set the Budget Together
Money is often one of the biggest stressors in wedding planning. That’s why this groom’s guide recommends setting a realistic budget upfront. Sit down with your partner to go over expenses, decide what you’re each contributing, and prioritize spending. Be honest about what you’re comfortable spending and where you can cut back.
Key Expenses to Review:
- Honeymoon
- Venue and catering
- Photographer/videographer
- Wedding attire
- Entertainment
- Flowers and decor
- Transportation
3 Build Your Side of the Guest List
Next, start building a guest list for your family and friends. Make sure your list matches your budget and venue capacity. Share it with your partner so you can merge and edit together. This part of the groom’s guide is often overlooked, but it’s critical for planning seating charts, catering numbers, and invitations.
Don’t forget to include:
- Plus-ones (if allowed)
- Immediate family
- Extended family
- Close friends
- Work colleagues (if applicable)
4. Choose Your Groomsmen
Choosing your wedding party is a big moment. Your best man and groomsmen should be reliable and supportive—people you trust to stand by your side. Let them know early so they can plan ahead.
Duties of the Groom’s Party:
- Attending the rehearsal and dinner
- Getting fitted for suits
- Helping with bachelor party planning
- Supporting you on the big day
This part of the groom’s guide encourages communication—make sure everyone knows what’s expected of them.
5. Coordinate Wedding Attire
Now it’s time to think about what you and your groomsmen will wear. Suit or tux? Bow tie or necktie? Whatever you choose, make sure it matches the formality and color scheme of the wedding.
Coordinate With:
- Your partner (on color and style)
- Your groomsmen (for fittings and matching looks)
- The wedding planner or stylist (if you have one)
Pro tip: schedule fittings early and double-check rental deadlines or order timelines.
6. Buy the Wedding Ring
While you may have already purchased the engagement ring, you’ll still need to buy the wedding band. Talk with your partner about whether you’ll get matching bands or choose something different. This is a key task in the groom’s guide, and it’s often left to the last minute—don’t wait.
Things to consider:
- Budget
- Metal type (gold, platinum, titanium)
- Style (classic, modern, custom)
7. Apply for the Marriage License
One of the most important legal steps is applying for the marriage license. Requirements vary by state, so check your local clerk’s office for details. Both you and your partner usually need to appear in person with ID.
What You’ll Need:
- Valid identification (driver’s license, passport)
- Social Security numbers (if applicable)
- Application fee
- Divorce decree (if either of you was previously married)
This groom’s guide recommends applying one to two weeks before the wedding, as licenses often have expiration dates.
8. Hire an Officiant
Your officiant plays a central role in your ceremony, so take time to choose someone meaningful. Whether it’s a religious leader, a civil celebrant, or a close friend (if legally allowed), be sure they’re licensed to perform weddings in your state.
What to Ask:
- Are there any legal steps we need to follow?
- Are you available on our date?
- Can you customize the ceremony?
- What do you charge?
9. Write Your Wedding Vows
Writing your own vows? Start early. Don’t wait until the night before. This groom’s guide encourages heartfelt, honest writing that reflects your relationship.
Tips:
- Print a backup copy for the ceremony
- Keep it personal but concise (1–2 minutes)
- Include anecdotes or shared memories
- Practice reading them out loud
10. Plan Your Speech
As the groom, you’re expected to give a short speech at the reception. This is your chance to thank your guests, your wedding party, and your partner. Keep it sincere and avoid long stories or jokes that might not land.
Speech Checklist:
- Thank both families
- Thank guests for attending
- Mention your partner with love and appreciation
- Acknowledge your best man and groomsmen
- End with a toast
11. Organize Transportation
Don’t forget about how everyone will get to the wedding. Depending on the venue, you might need transport for the bridal party, family members, or guests.
Options to Consider:
- Limousines or classic cars
- Shuttle buses
- Rideshare coordination
- Special transport for the bride and groom
This groom’s guide recommends confirming transportation bookings a few weeks before the wedding to avoid surprises.
12. Handle the Rehearsal Dinner
Traditionally, the groom’s family plans and pays for the rehearsal dinner. It usually takes place the night before the wedding, right after the ceremony walkthrough.
Guest List Usually Includes:
- Immediate family
- Wedding party
- Out-of-town guests
- Close friends
Keep it casual and fun—it’s a great time to relax before the big day.
13. Buy Gifts for the Wedding Party and Parents
Show appreciation to your groomsmen, best man, and family members with thoughtful gifts. These don’t have to be expensive but should be meaningful.
Popular Gift Ideas:
- Personalized cufflinks or flasks
- Watches or wallets
- Barware sets
- Framed photos or letters for parents
This part of the groom’s guide reminds you to order gifts early to allow for personalization and shipping time.
14. Prepare for the Wedding Day
As the big day approaches, get everything in order. Confirm schedules, double-check your suit, and make sure your groomsmen know what time to arrive.
Wedding Day Checklist:
- Pack an emergency kit (extra socks, mints, deodorant)
- Bring the rings
- Eat a decent breakfast
- Stay hydrated
- Stay calm and enjoy the day
Conclusion
Being a groom today means more than just showing up on the big day—it’s about being an equal partner in the planning process. This groom’s guide has walked you through the key responsibilities that can make a real difference. When you stay involved, organized, and supportive, you help create a wedding that reflects both you and your partner.
If you’re planning to get married in Las Vegas, Paradise Wedding Chapel is here to help. From choosing the perfect wedding venue to handling the ceremony details, our team makes the process simple and stress-free.
Contact Paradise Wedding Chapel today to see how we can help you succeed with selecting and planning your ideal wedding venue. Let us help you bring your wedding vision to life—beautifully, affordably, and with care.
FAQs
What are the primary responsibilities of the groom before the wedding?
The groom is responsible for choosing his groomsmen and best man, organizing his attire and the attire for his groomsmen, and planning and booking the honeymoon. He should also assist with the wedding planning, focusing on tasks like selecting vendors, managing the budget, and supporting his partner.
What should the groom do on the day of the wedding?
On the wedding day, the groom should ensure he and his groomsmen arrive on time, dressed, and ready. He must check that the wedding rings and marriage license are safe and accessible. It’s also important for him to take a moment to connect with his partner, expressing love and excitement for the shared future.
How can the groom support his partner during the wedding planning process?
The groom can support his partner by actively participating in planning sessions, offering opinions and making decisions together. He should also take on specific tasks to manage, such as coordinating transportation or communicating with the DJ or band. Listening and providing emotional support throughout the process are equally important.
What is the groom’s role in the wedding budget?
The groom should collaborate with his partner to establish a realistic wedding budget. This involves contributing to financial discussions, understanding the costs associated with their wedding, and making joint decisions on spending priorities. He may also coordinate discussions between families if they are contributing financially.
Are there any specific traditions or customs the groom should be aware of?
The groom should research and respect any cultural, religious, or family traditions that may influence the wedding ceremony or celebrations. This could include wearing specific attire, participating in ceremonial rituals, or incorporating certain elements into the wedding. Open communication with his partner and both families will help ensure these traditions are honored appropriately.