Grooms Attendants

We always talk about the girls - now let's talk about the guys. . .

While it's usual for grooms to just ask buddies or brothers to "be in the wedding", many men say "sure" without being too clear about what they've just committed to. Being an honored attendant means a lot more than dressing up for a big party.

The best man is a title given to a brother or best friend who will take his responsibility seriously. In many areas, it is traditional for the groom to choose his father for this role. (It is helpful if he is also someone who gets along with the bride.) It is the best man's job to take care of all bachelor events and provide support for the groom. He keeps track of the wedding rings, even if there is a ring bearer. He initiates the toasts at the rehearsal dinner, makes the first toast to the bride and groom at the reception and reads anys telegrams that come for the couple. He transports the groom to the church and helps him dress. He delivers the officiant's fee before or after the service and signs the wedding certificate as a witness. Many men don't realize this, but his responsibilities may also include returning the groom's wedding attire to the cleaners or rental shop.

Groomsmen are usually chosen from the groom's old friends, cousins and both the bride's and groom's brothers. Come weddings have both ushers and groomsmen. In this case, the ushers seat the guests and the groomsmen stand at the altar as attendants to the groom. Other couples elect to have their attendants usher as well as stand at the altar. It is not necessary to have the same number of groomsmen as bridesmaids, but it is a better balance if the numbers are at least close. They may wait at the altar with the groom and best man or many accompany a bridesmaid down the aisle in the processional and recessional. While there is no definite number of ushers you "must" have, the rule of thumb, one usher per every 50 -75 guests. An usher offers his right arm to each woman guest. Bride's guest are seated to the left and groom's to the right. This order is reversed at Jewish services. They are expected to arrive at the church one hour before the ceremony to seat early guests.

They distribute wedding service programs if they are provided, direct the placement of wedding gifts if the ceremony and reception are in the same location and seat all people with pew cards in the reserved or special section. Just before the processional they unroll the aisle carpet if one is to be used, then take their places.

Happy Planning,

Kim

Church Policies

We find that many brides are not aware that most churches have policies concerning what can or cannot be done at a wedding. While your individual church will have its own rules and regulations,k in general most churches have these guidelines in place.

Typically a church will not allow permanently attached furniture to be moved. No thumbtacks or nails can be driven into the woodwork nor can anything be used to deface it.

Saucers or mats must be placed under all palms or floral arrangements that rest on the floor.

All arrangements for music, ceremony and decorations must be submitted and are subject to the approval of the priest, minister or church wedding coordinator.

Floral arrangements or candles that must be taped to each pew are likely to be forbidden. The best rule is to remember that decorations should be kept to a minimum so as not to detract from the dignity of the sanctuary.

The church may require that its organist be employed.

The church may require that no pictures be taken during the ceremony - especially flash photos.

Many would require that all fees be paid in cash prior to or at the rehearsal.

And common sense dictates that no trash be left behind in the building and no alcoholic beverages be served or consumed in the building.

If you have not been provided with a printed set of guidelines for the place you have chosen for your ceremony, be sure to ask for clarification.

We are here to help you with all of the details surrounding your wedding ceremony.

Happy Planning,

Kim