Tag Archives: groomsmen

You’re the (Grooms)Man

Brides give gifts of gratitude to their wedding party, but some grooms don’t know to do the same. It may be that brides handle most of the planning or groomsmen don’t have as significant a role in the process as bridesmaids do. There is a reason they were chosen to stand at the altar and deserve a token of appreciation too. Following are a few ideas to consider:

While likely the first (and easiest) option, if your guys are single or have been in other weddings, there’s enough bottle openers, shot glasses and barware on hand.

If everyone has different personalities or interests, a general gift is appropriate. You can choose variations to show thought and effort. The same wallet in different shades with names or initials engraved is a great option. Everyone loves sunglasses. Bamboo ones are stylish, come in many frame and lens colors and a case so you don’t even have to wrap them.

To take things a step further, opt for something meaningful to each person. If one is a foodie, treat him to a gift card at his favorite restaurant or one he may not have tried yet. If another is a coffee aficionado, grab some rare, premium blend he wouldn’t splurge on for himself.

Doing a group activity is a great idea when there is a common thread. If you are fanatics about a particular sport, get tickets and enjoy a game together. It’s a great way to relax and bond. Treat them to a whiskey tasting. Kick your feet up, reminisce, get advice from your married friends and some well wishes.

Quality gifts can be found whether your budget is tight or limitless. Give the guys meaningful and special things as it’s the thought (not the cost) that counts.

Backing Out

Some of the first things when preparing for your big day is to choose your pastor, the wedding party and who will give toasts and speeches. All are very important roles requiring time, energy and forethought both on your part and theirs. Unfortunately, there are occasions when one or more will back out at the last minute leaving you to wonder what to do.

Don’t get upset. Life happens and those who accepted their positions did so out of care for you. While it may throw you for a loop, there is surely a good reason behind his/her decision.

If a member of your wedding party, replacing them is not the best idea. Who you choose will likely feel as if a backup and be hurt. It is perfectly acceptable to have an uneven number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. However, if it’s your maid of honor or the best man, feel free to ask someone already chosen to change roles.

As far as toasts and speeches go, people put time and effort into saying what they will deliver. There’s no reason to ask someone new. It also puts a lot of pressure on anyone to compose anything meaningful at the last minute.

For piece of mind, you should (at some point in time) inquire why things changed but no wedding is perfect and such questions should be addressed after your ceremony. The best thing is that, at the end of the day, you have married your life partner.