Typically, when we think about weddings, we often think about the bride. If there is a groom involved, he usually takes a backseat during the planning process.

However, your responsibilities don’t end once you’ve gotten down on one knee. It takes two for a marriage to happen.

Here are several ways to help with planning, and making the wedding day everything you both want it to be.

1. Hire a Planner

Planning a wedding can come with more details than you’re ready to handle. Luckily, hiring a wedding planner can alleviate a lot of the stress.

Even if you decide to elope, it’s smart to look into hiring an elopement planner. This way, you can focus more time on preparing your relationship for marriage rather than planning the fine details.

2. Have An Opinion

It’s easy to agree with everything your bride might want for the wedding. It can also lead to potential arguments if you don’t have a strong opinion about anything.

Remember, this is your day, too. Your bride will want you to feel like this day is important to you as well. Don’t be afraid to be a part of the decision-making – even on the small things like centrepieces or flower arrangements.

3. Choose Your Best Man Wisely

Your best man is not just about choosing your brother or best friend. This is about selecting the person who has influenced your life and your relationship with your soon-to-be wife.

They’re the ones that will support you on your big day, rather than wanting to only be there for the party. Choose wisely and from the heart when selecting your best man.

4. Wedding Accessories

There’s more to planning than just choosing a tuxedo or suit. You’ll want to think about what type of neckwear to have such as a bowtie, necktie, or skipping out altogether.

Then there’s the boutonniere, shoes, pocket squares, cufflinks, and other wedding accessories for the groom to choose from. Think about the aesthetic of the wedding and what fits your unique style.

5. Practising Your Speech

Your vows, along with any speech you make at the reception, should be rehearsed ahead of time. Don’t try to “wing it.”

While you may be an extrovert who is great at public speaking, it’s easy to fumble over your words when you’re expressing your undying love for your new wife in front of family and friends. Practice what you want to say ahead of time and don’t be afraid to write it down to read from on the day of the wedding.

6. Help Plan Group Photos

You and your groomsmen will have an opportunity to have photos taken together after the ceremony. But you don’t want to leave all of the photo ideas on the shoulder of the photographer.

If there are certain types of photos you want, try to plan some out ahead of time. Talk to your photographer to get some ideas rolling and even do a quick search online for inspiration.

7. Take Time For Yourself

Before the ceremony, it might be a good idea for the groom to have space to take a breath. This could be having a drink with your best man or finding a quiet place to take a few minutes to get your head straight.

There’s going to be a lot of emotions and potential heightened anxiety. It’s completely normal. Allow yourself the space to take a little time for yourself.

8. Take Time With Your New Wife

On your wedding day, you’ll be busy running around to different tables and friend groups to show your appreciation for them coming. You may even forget to eat – so make time for that too!

Find a place for you and your new wife to take time together, even if it’s only ten minutes during the reception. Celebrate with just the two of you in a quiet moment to relish how amazing it is to finally be married. You deserve it!

Summary

From the wedding planning to the big day, many aspects throughout the process are going to require the groom to play his role.

The best advice for a groom is to step up to the plate with ideas and help to alleviate some of the planning processes off of the bride’s shoulders. Remember, this is your special day, too. Your opinion matters.