There's no need to choose just one person to stand by your side. In fact, having two best men is not only perfectly acceptable from an etiquette standpoint, but it's also the easiest way to honor two important people in your life.
For a formal wedding with over two hundred guests, the suggested number of groomsmen is between six to ten; aim for one usher for every fifty people or so. Informal weddings can get away with half of that. Of course, you need to strike a balance between the number of groomsmen and of bridesmaids.
Your groomsmen should be your nearest and dearest – family members and friends who will stand by your side on one of the biggest days of your life. Being named a groomsman is a big honor, and one that comes with a decent amount of responsibility, so it's important to choose your crew wisely.
The short answer is no, your brother does not have to be your best man. So whether you're eyeing someone else for the job, have multiple brothers to choose from, don't want to play favorites, or want to skip the wedding party all together, you don't have to say “yes” just because he's your brother.
Although you would think your presence is gift enough, the best man should also typically get the groom a gift—or organize a group gift from all the groomsmen—to celebrate his wedding.
Here's how to ask bridesmaids to be in your wedding in just a few simple steps.
- Pick your squad. First things first: It's time to decide who will be in your bridal party.
- Send a giftor don't.
- Be a little formal.
- Have a follow-up convo.
- Facilitate the introductions.
A male friend of the groom is typically a groomsman (or best man). A female friend is sometimes called a groomswoman (or best woman), although I guess you could also go with groomsmaid or groomsmatron (or best maid or best matron).
You can, if you need to, call the person back, as soon as possible, and say, “I'm so sorry, I got carried away yesterday in all the excitement. I so appreciate your willingness to be a groomsman but I'm keeping it smaller.
The base of every groomsmen proposal box is alcohol as every guy will appreciate that. It can be a small bottle of whiskey, bourbon, a tin can of beer or liquor, or any other alcohol that your friend likes. If the box is big enough, go for a large bottle and maybe a tin of coke if it's a whiskey bottle.
Who pays for the groomsmen suits. Whether it's black-tie, formal or semi-formal attire, by the tradition the groomsmen usually pay for their own suits when buying them outright. As the groom, you'll have a say in style choices, colors and how smart you want the groomsmen to be dressed.
"$250-$500. The amount should be at least enough to cover the cost of our attendance at the wedding. Amount goes up from $250 depending on how close we are with the couple. Money is the best gift ;)."
The Groomsmen: The groomsmen walk down the aisle in pairs starting with those standing farthest from the groom. 5. The Best Man: During the processional, the best man walks solo after the groomsmen and takes his place as the right-hand man of the groom.
The average wedding gift amount hovers right around $100, which is a great place to start, and you can increase or decrease that based on how close you are. If you're very close or related to the couple (and have the wiggle room in your budget), you may choose to spend more—about $150 per guest (or $200 from a couple).
Generally, no — most weddings will only have a speech from the best man, maid of honor, and possibly the fathers of the bride and groom. Tradition states that the groom gives his speech at the wedding reception, following the ceremony.
What are the best man duties?
- Helping to pick the groomswear.
- Planning and organising the stag do.
- Make sure the rest of the groomsmen attend suit fittings.
- Organise a gift for the groom.
- Write and give a best man's speech.
- Collect telegrams or messages to be read out during the speeches.
Usually, the groom selects close friends and relatives to serve as groomsmen, and it is considered an honor to be selected. From his groomsmen, the groom usually chooses one to serve as best man.
Typically, groomsmen rent rather than buy their attire as well. On average, tux rental costs in the U.S. range from $100 to $199.
