8 wedding day tips for the groom
It’s so easy to kind of forget to cater to the grooms during the wedding planning process. They need guidance just as much as brides do, though. By not offering information to our grooms about how they can feel confident and prepared on their wedding day, we are doing them a great disservice. I always assure my couples that the grooms take roughly 20 minutes to photograph during the get ready portion of the day. However, that is only true if they are prepared. If I show up to the groom’s suite and they are unaware of items they need or how to tie a tie, what should be a fun part of the day quickly turns into a high-stress situation. That’s why I laid out 8 tips to help the groom feel ready for the wedding day.
Tip 1: Know how to tie a tie
Knowing how to tie a tie might seem like a no-brainer. Actually, it’s a skill a skill a lot of grooms don’t have. Unless you were raised in a culture where shirt and tie was customary, you were in a fraternity in college, or it is required for your job, I can understand why some men never bothered to learn to tie a tie. On your wedding day, though, this skill is necessary. And because I have run into this pickle more than once, I vow to learn to tie a tie, too! I did once in college, but if you don’t use it you lose it. Right? Make sure your groomsmen know how to tie one, as well. Plan a night where you all get together and bond while tying ties!
Tip 2: Be showered and prepped
I can’t tell you how many times I have shown up to the groom’s suite ready to take photos only to be told the groom and groomsmen have not showered yet. Because I follow a strict timeline, I can’t afford to wait until everyone is ready. When I arrive, groom and groomsmen will have showered, shaved, and dressed about two thirds of the way. Don’t get me wrong, I want you to be relaxed and having fun. Enjoy a beer or a cocktail, have the football game on. BUT, you better be ready for me.
I prioritize a cohesive gallery. My couples pay me to document their day. I do not like having to forgo certain moments, but I have to work with what I am given. Be showered and dressed, boys.
Tip 3: Have your wardrobe ready
The day of the wedding is not the time to be scrambling for your suit and shirt and shoes, etc. Gather up every piece of your ensemble the week of the wedding day, and store it safely in a garment bag. Please keep in mind that wrinkles look sloppy. So, be sure to have your suit pressed prior to packing it up. Some wardrobe details to consider: cufflinks, matching socks, matching ties, a watch, suspenders, matching sunglasses. Take advantage of all of the fun photo opportunities!
Tip 4: Tidy up the space
Clutter affects the aesthetic of photos. Take a few minutes to clear off the beds and pick things up off of the floor. Keeping things clutter-free is keeps the mind clear, as well. It’s a big day! Let’s set an intention: Be fully present. Remove distractions. Clear the space. Free the mind.
Tip 5: Prepare your groomsmen
Wedding days are naturally chaotic. Prepare your groomsmen ahead of time to avoid added chaos. A LOT of photos will be taken throughout the course of the day. It’s important your groomsmen know what is expected of them. Please encourage them to save the majority of their alcohol consumption until the reception. Inform them of the timeline of the day, and remind them that they are to be present and on time at all of the predetermined photo locations. The more cooperation I receive from the bridal party, the faster everyone heads to cocktail hour.
Let your groomsmen know how they can best support you throughout the day. Utilize your team. Some suggestions I have for assigning special roles to your guys are: choose a point of contact, have someone check in and offer assistance to family members with special needs, make sure one or two of the groomsmen know the timeline, have one of the guys be in charge of making sure everyone remains on their best behavior.
Tip 6: Take a moment with your parents
You’re getting married! That’s a major life milestone. One I’m sure your parents are incredibly proud of. Take some time to share in the specialness of this day, and maybe even thank them for the part they played in getting you to this moment. I mean, it is their day too! Invite your mom to pin your boutonniere, and ask your dad to adjust your tie. Both of these interactions serve as great photo opportunities.
Tip 7: Take a moment to yourself
Sometimes the reality of getting married doesn’t hit until the day of the wedding. It’s natural to feel stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed. I frequently check in with my couples to see how they are feeling, and I offer words of encouragement and support as best I can. I find that what works best for my couples, though, is some space and time to themselves. Gather your thoughts, catch your breath, and take as much time as you need.
Tip 8: Have fun!
Ultimately, I want you to enjoy your day! These tips ensure your day runs smoothly and eliminates unnecessary stress. Therefore, you CAN enjoy it to the fullest! Trust me on this.
If every groom puts these 8 wedding day tips into action, they will feel confident and ready on their wedding day. Mark my words. Now, go get married!!
with love from the lens,
ashley
