10 Top Tips for Grooms in the Build-Up to the Big Day

Weddings often come with a lot of focus on the bride, but let’s not forget: the groom has a role to play too! Whether you’re laid back or full of energy these ten tips will keep you on track, stress-free, and ready to absolutely smash your wedding day. Let’s dive in, shall we?

1. Sort Your Suit (And Do It Early)

Look, nobody wants to be the guy Googling “wedding suits near me” a week before the big day. Whether you’re going for classic black tie, tweed three-piece, or something completely left field, get your suit sorted early. And yes, this includes trying it on before the wedding morning. That last-minute realisation that it’s two sizes too small would be a shame. I would always recommend Whitfield & Ward.

Pro Tip: Check if your groomsmen are also sorted and have been properly measured.

2. Nail Your Grooming Routine

I am no super model, but….. this doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in front of the mirror. But a little self-care goes a long way. Get a haircut about a week before the wedding—fresh but not too fresh. Sort out your beard or stubble situation.

Pro Tip: If you’ve never had a professional shave or facial, now’s the time. Trust me, it’s game-changing.

3. Be a Team Player in the Planning

Sure, you might not care about the difference between eucalyptus and sage green napkins, but getting involved (even just a little) earns you major brownie points. Offer to handle the playlist, the bar menu, or even liaise with the photographer. Showing interest in the planning tells your partner you’re in this together—without you having to pretend to care about floral arrangements. Also you could just agree to everything they say.

4. Learn the First Dance Basics

No one’s expecting you to bust out a fully choreographed routine (unless you want to – in which case, go for it). But at least learn how to sway without stepping on toes. Practice a couple of times with your partner so you’re both comfortable.

5. Prepare Your Speech

If you’re giving a speech, start writing it well in advance. Keep it short, sweet, and personal. A couple of jokes? Great. Ten minutes of inside jokes only your uni mates will understand? Not so much. Thank your partner, your in-laws, and anyone who helped make the day happen. Most importantly, practice it – preferably not for the first time at the reception. I would always suggest like cards for the speech as opposed to your mobile phone, and look up every now and then.

Pro Tip: Don’t wing it. Even the best improvisers need a plan. Jot down key points on cue cards if you’re worried about forgetting.

6. Dont get to Drunk

Trust me, as a man of experience in this field. Don’t get to shit faced on your wedding. I got married 10 years ago and had way to much to drink and missed most the night. Especially make sure your not in a mess by the speeches!

7. Get Familiar with the Timeline

Most of the time we know that when its the bride and groom – the bride does most the planning, but know what’s happening and when – from the ceremony start time to when the cake gets cut. This isn’t just about keeping yourself in the loop; it’ll also stop you from pestering your partner every five minutes with “What time are we doing XYZ again?”

8. Break in Your Shoes

If your anything like me you hate wearing formal shoes. Nothing kills a wedding day faster than blisters. If you’ve got new shoes, wear them around the house for a few hours (socks optional). Trust me, your feet will thank you when you’re hitting the dance floor later.

9. Delegate

You’re not expected to handle everything. Delegate jobs to your groomsmen or family members. Someone to keep an eye on the rings? Sorted. Someone to handle the last-minute logistics? Even better. Your job is to enjoy the day, not to run around like a headless chicken.

Pro Tip: Make sure your best man knows he’s in charge of getting you to the venue on time. No pressure, but it’s literally one of his main jobs.

10. Gifts & Cards

If you are thinking of giving a gift to your soon to be wife/ husband then put some effort in. Trust me when I say they care as do the bridesmaids. I hear it all haha.

Bonus Tip: Have Fun

Weddings are meant to be a celebration, not a military operation. Things might go off-script, and that’s okay. Laugh it off, roll with it, and focus on what really matters: marrying the love of your life. Enjoy it, trust all your suppliers and enjoy a drink. Mines a pint.

There you have it: ten solid tips. Got more questions or ready to make sure your big day is captured with minimal fuss, hardly any time away from your friends and family? Head over to andygriffithsphotography.co.uk/contact and let’s make it happen. And don’t forget to follow @andygriffithsphotography on Instagram for all the wedding inspiration you didn’t know you needed!