Advice For The Groom

Your wedding day is one of the most significant and memorable days of your life, and as the groom, your role is just as important as your partner’s. It’s a day when all eyes are on both of you, capturing moments that will be cherished for generations. Yet, too often, grooms are overlooked in the planning process, reduced to the guy in a suit standing at the end of the aisle. But this day is as much about you as it is about your bride, and your presence, style, and actions will leave a lasting impact. That’s why it’s essential to seek out advice for the groom—tips and insights that ensure you feel confident, celebrated, and fully involved in every aspect of your big day.

One of the most powerful ways to make this day truly yours is to get involved in the planning process. Don’t just nod along—speak up about what matters to you. Whether it’s the music that will play as you stand at the altar, the signature cocktail at the bar, or even the choice of dessert, your input will make the day more personal and meaningful. It’s also a great way to share the excitement and bond with your partner as you make decisions together.

This guide is all about ensuring you feel confident, look your best, and fully embrace every moment. From mastering your look to managing wedding day nerves, these tips are crafted to make sure you shine just as brightly. Because this is your wedding day too, and you deserve to feel incredible and celebrated.

Stand By Her Side, Every Step of the Way

True partnership in wedding planning demonstrates the foundation of your marriage. Engage actively in decision-making processes rather than defaulting to “whatever you want” responses. Even if certain details seem minor to you, your input matters—it shows investment in creating an event that represents both of you. Schedule regular planning discussions where phones and distractions are set aside, allowing focused conversation about upcoming decisions and tasks.

Develop awareness of your partner’s stress indicators and respond proactively. Rather than waiting to be asked, regularly offer specific assistance: “I’ll research and book the transportation options this week” or “I’ll coordinate with the groomsmen about their attire fittings.” Taking complete ownership of several significant planning aspects demonstrates commitment to equitable partnership rather than merely helping with “their” wedding.

On the wedding day itself, create moments of genuine connection amidst the celebration. Make eye contact during the ceremony, squeeze their hand reassuringly during photographs, and check in throughout the reception. These small gestures of attentiveness matter tremendously. Remember that your calm presence provides emotional stability—if challenges arise, respond with solution-focused composure rather than frustration. This day represents your first shared challenge as a married couple; approaching it as a united team establishes a powerful precedent for your partnership.

Look the Part and Feel Confident 

Your wedding day is one of the most photographed days of your life, so looking your best is paramount. Advice for the groom: Schedule fittings for yourself and your groomsmen well in advance—ideally at least two months before the big day. Don’t assume rental suits will fit properly without adjustments. Even if you’ve purchased custom attire, a final fitting two weeks before ensures everything sits perfectly on your frame.

For grooming, timing is everything. Book your haircut 5-7 days before the wedding, allowing it to settle and look natural rather than freshly-cut. This timeline gives you leeway to address any styling issues while maintaining a polished appearance. When it comes to facial hair, have your beard professionally trimmed during that same appointment for a clean, defined look that complements your face shape.

Resist the urge to experiment with new hairstyles or grooming products in the weeks leading up to your wedding. Instead, refine what already works for you. Consider scheduling a trial run with your barber a few months before to test any style adjustments you’re contemplating. Remember details like manicured nails and moisturized skin—these small touches make a significant difference in close-up photographs and when slipping the ring onto your partner’s finger.

Master the Photo Game

Wedding photography is an investment in memories that will last generations, so approaching it with enthusiasm rather than obligation makes a tremendous difference. Some advice for the groom; the most flattering photos happen when you’re genuinely enjoying yourself, so embrace the spirit of celebration throughout the day. Authentic smiles always photograph better than forced ones.

Practice makes perfect when it comes to posing naturally. Spend some time before a mirror practicing your smile and finding your most comfortable camera angles. This might feel awkward initially, but it builds muscle memory that will serve you well during extended photo sessions. Remember to stand tall with shoulders back and relaxed—good posture instantly elevates your appearance in photographs.

Hand placement often confounds even the most photogenic grooms. The classic pose with one hand in your pocket works well, as does resting your hands naturally at your sides or gently clasped in front of you. Avoid clenching your fists or crossing your arms, which can make you appear tense. When in doubt, your photographer will guide you, but having a few comfortable go-to poses in your repertoire helps produce natural-looking images that you’ll treasure for years to come.

Your Squad, Your Responsibility

As the groom, you’re not just responsible for yourself—you’re the leader of your groomsmen team. They’re your support system, your hype squad, and your brothers-in-arms. So clear communication is essential, so have a detailed timeline for your crew that outlines exactly when and where they need to be throughout the wedding day.

You want everyone to have a great time, but moderation is key. A celebratory toast or drink before the ceremony is fine, but keep it under control. Remember, you set the example. If you stay composed and focused, your groomsmen will follow suit. On your wedding day, they’re there to do more than just stand next to you; they’re there to make sure you’re relaxed, hyped up, and ready to rock that aisle. Whether it’s calming last-minute jitters, organizing an epic pre-ceremony toast, or just making sure you don’t forget the rings, your groomsmen have your back. Choose wisely, and lean on them—they’re there to help make your day legendary.

Gifts That Actually Matter

Gifting on your wedding day isn’t about obligation—it’s about expressing gratitude and love to the people who matter most. Whether it’s for your bride, parents, or groomsmen, thoughtful gifts can create meaningful connections amidst the whirlwind of festivities. And remember, there’s no rule saying you have to give gifts; it’s entirely up to you. But if you choose to, make it count.

Meaningful gifts create moments of connection amidst the whirlwind of wedding festivities. For your bride, consider something timeless that speaks to your relationship—perhaps a piece of jewelry she can wear on your wedding day, a handwritten letter delivered the morning of, or something that acknowledges an inside joke or special memory between you. The most treasured gifts are those that demonstrate thoughtfulness rather than extravagance.

When selecting gifts for parents, reflect on your relationship with them and their role in your journey. Some advice for the groom is to consider items that commemorate this milestone—custom photo frames with a heartfelt note, an experience you can share together after the wedding, or an heirloom-quality keepsake that acknowledges their influence in your life. These gestures acknowledge their support and welcome them into this new chapter of your family story.

For groomsmen, personalization makes all the difference. While monogrammed items are classic options, consider gifts that reflect each individual’s personality or your specific friendship. Quality barware, premium grooming kits, or custom accessories they can wear on the wedding day show appreciation for their participation. Present these gifts during a private moment before the wedding festivities begin, allowing time for genuine expressions of gratitude for their friendship and support. For great personalized gift ideas, check out GroomsShop, which offers a wide variety of customizable options.

Speak from the Heart (Without Blanking Out)

Your wedding vows are one of the most meaningful promises you’ll ever make, capturing the love and commitment that brought you to this moment. They’re not just words—they’re a reflection of your journey together and your hopes for the future. Start drafting your vows at least one month before the wedding, giving yourself time to reflect, revise, and make them truly meaningful. Think about the experiences that shaped your relationship, the qualities you admire most in your partner, and the promises that genuinely matter to you. Authenticity always resonates more powerfully than overly poetic language that doesn’t feel like your own voice.

Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone—many grooms find themselves struggling to put their emotions into words. That’s why we’ve partnered with Provenance, a platform designed to help you craft heartfelt vows that capture your story. Whether you need help getting started or refining your final draft, Provenance guides you through the process, ensuring your words feel authentic and unforgettable.

Practice reciting your vows aloud until they flow naturally. This does more than just help with memorization—it prepares you for the emotions that might surface on the big day. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself choked up, even in private rehearsal. Some advice for the groom is to embrace those emotions—there’s incredible strength in showing genuine vulnerability during such a powerful moment. Additional advice for the groom is if you’re giving a toast or speech, follow the same approach. Write it well in advance, practice it until it feels comfortable, and focus on speaking from the heart rather than delivering a polished performance. A short, heartfelt speech often leaves a more lasting impact than a lengthy one. And if your voice cracks or your eyes well up, know that those raw, genuine moments are what people will remember most.

Secret Weapon: Your Wedding Planner

Your wedding planner is your ultimate ally on the big day, making sure everything goes smoothly so you can focus on what matters most—marrying the love of your life. As the groom, you might not realize just how much you’ll rely on them, but trust us—they’ve got your back in ways you haven’t even considered. From orchestrating the timeline to solving last-minute hiccups, they’re the behind-the-scenes hero who keeps the day on track.

Your planner isn’t just managing logistics—they’re your go-to expert for all things style and presentation. Struggling with a bow tie or wondering if your pocket square looks right? They’ve mastered the art of perfectly dimpled ties, crisply folded pocket squares, and boutonniere placement that stays picture-perfect. Your planner will personally pin on every boutonniere for you, your groomsmen, and even your fathers and grandfathers, ensuring they’re secure and photo-ready. They’ll tie ties with precision, straighten collars, and make sure pockets are cleared of phones, wallets, or anything that could create unwanted bulges in photos. Their attention to detail guarantees you look sharp from the first look to the last dance, with no wardrobe hiccups along the way. Planners also come armed with emergency kits that can save the day in unexpected ways—think collar stays, stain removers, lint rollers, and even breath mints. If nerves start to creep in or you need a pep talk before walking down the aisle, they’re there for that, too.

Advice for the groom is that it is smart to build a solid rapport with your planner well before the wedding day. Share any concerns, ask all your questions—no matter how small—and trust their guidance. On the day itself, lean on them to handle the timeline and logistics so you can be fully present. They’ve navigated countless weddings and know how to solve any issue that pops up, often before you even know it’s happening. Surrendering control isn’t just about avoiding stress—it’s about truly enjoying every moment, knowing your planner has everything under control.

Spotlight Moments: Nailed It or Awkward Pause?

It’s easy to get caught up in the big-picture details of your wedding day, but don’t overlook the small yet significant moments that make a lasting impact. Your first dance with your bride, the emotional mother-son dance, walking down the aisle, and even your first kiss as a married couple are all moments that will be photographed, recorded, and remembered for years to come. These are the times when all eyes are on you, and feeling confident in these spotlight moments makes a world of difference. Advice for the groom: Practicing these moments in advance will help you feel relaxed and confident when the big day arrives.

If you want to feel comfortable and avoid any awkwardness, practice is key. Take time to rehearse your first dance with your bride, even if it’s just a simple sway or a fully choreographed routine. Private dance lessons can be a fun date activity and help you both feel more comfortable on the dance floor. The mother-son dance is another emotional highlight—consider the song choice carefully and practice together if possible to avoid feeling stiff or uncomfortable.

Don’t forget about the smaller but equally important moments, like walking down the aisle or sharing your first kiss as a married couple. Advice for the groom: practice walking slowly and confidently to avoid rushing in the moment, and make sure you and your bride are on the same page about the style of your first kiss. These little details might seem minor, but they contribute to the overall flow and feel of your wedding day. By preparing for these moments, you’ll not only feel more comfortable but also ensure they become cherished memories rather than sources of stress.

Time is on Your Side (If You Plan It Right)

Effective time management begins with a realistic timeline that includes buffer periods throughout the day. Work with your wedding planner to develop a minute-by-minute schedule, then add 15-30 minutes of flexibility to critical preparation periods. Share this detailed timeline with your groomsmen at the rehearsal dinner, providing both digital and printed copies with their individual responsibilities highlighted. Advice for the groom is to consider creating a group text or using a wedding party coordination app to facilitate real-time updates.

On the wedding morning, organize groomsmen preparation methodically. If you’re sharing getting-ready space, establish a rotation for showers and grooming that prioritizes the photographer’s arrival time. Those appearing in the first photographs should be fully dressed earlier. Build in contingency time for unexpected situations—traffic delays, missing items, or last-minute adjustments. Remember that starting each phase of your day with composure rather than rushing creates a more positive experience for everyone involved and sets a relaxed tone for the celebration ahead.

This Is Your Day, Too

Your wedding day is about you and your partner—together. It’s about celebrating your love story, your journey, and your future. You’re not just an accessory to the bride’s big day; you’re a central part of it. Own that role with confidence and pride. By approaching your wedding day with intention and enthusiasm, you create an unforgettable experience, not just for yourself, but for everyone present. You set the tone for the celebration, lead your groomsmen with style and grace, and stand proudly as one half of this incredible partnership. Throughout the day, take deliberate “mental photographs” by pausing for ten seconds to fully absorb pivotal moments—the quiet anticipation before walking down the aisle, your partner’s expression during the vows, the joyful chaos of the dance floor. These conscious pauses create vivid memories that will remain accessible long after the day concludes.

Years from now, the details that seemed critically important will fade, but the feeling of the day will remain. Serious advice for the groom is to make conscious choices to prioritize joy, gratitude, and connection over production values or flawless execution. Your wedding marks the beginning of your marriage—ensure it reflects the love, partnership and mutual support that will define your life together.

Your wedding day is a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and love. It’s easy to get caught up in the schedule and logistics, but don’t forget to be present. Last advice for the groom is that this is your day—savor every moment. Embrace it. Celebrate it. But most importantly, enjoy every second. Because this day is about both of you, and you deserve to feel like the most important man in the room.