Arranging the stag do and making the speech on the wedding day are just two of the numerous tasks according to tradition a best man needs to attend to for his mates big day.
However, I feel most of the other tasks now get delegated out to other members of the family and congregation.
The suits, usually these days the bride to be has a colour theme so the best man and ushers/groomsmen don’t have to choose their attire, but it is down to the best man to get them to the fittings and to ensure there are no clothing malfunctions.
Night before, make sure the groom gets to bed early
Groom, on the day help him look his best for his big day
Organising the ushers/groomsmen, Make sure you delegate as many of the task you have as possible around the group
The dreaded speech, make sure you speak to as many family members as possible and his other best friends the groom may have, don’t forget his Uni buddies and work colleagues to get as many ideas as you can for the dreaded speech.
Carry an emergency kit, aspirin, mints, condoms etc
Rings, remember to take them with you on the day and guard them with your life
Buttonhole management, you are supposed to make sure all the key people have their buttonholes so liaising with the florist before the wedding is a must.
Clergyman or register office timetable, you are responsible for keeping to the time table, getting everyone there on time, photo shoot after, and for getting them away to the reception
Wedding Cars, apparently it’s your job to make sure that the cars arrive on time and every key person gets to the ceremony and the after wedding party..
Managing the wedding party seems to be a bit excessive but apparently you are there to make sure everyone has a good time and there are no hiccups, even down to making sure vegetarians don’t get the veal. This task could turn out as difficult as herding cats
Collect best wishes messages cards and emails to be read out at the reception
At the event, be in charge and be as attentive as possible, making sure the fathers and mothers are happy and enjoying themselves (as they are usually paying for the shin dig), do your speech and announce the cutting of the cake, looking after the bridesmaids and do a reply on their behalf in your speech. Disco DJ/Band, Go through the order of events and the bride and grooms choice of music
Above everything else make sure your best mate’s wedding goes to plan oh and you enjoy it, your not a best man everyday.