Planning your wedding day, and want to make sure that everything is perfect for you and your partner?
At Larkspur Lodge, we believe that every groom deserves their moment in the spotlight. That’s why we’ve curated a comprehensive groom wedding checklist that covers all the essentials, from choosing the perfect venue and selecting dapper attire to coordinating the wedding party and planning the ultimate reception. Our guide is here to ensure that every groom feels confident and prepared for the big day.
We know that planning a wedding can be a whirlwind of emotions for the couple, and we want to make sure that all grooms get their say on the details of the big day.
Whether you and your partner are looking to plan all aspects of your special day together, or you’re sharing a list of responsibilities, we’re here to help you through each step of the process.
So, grooms-to-be, it’s time to get wedding-prep ready with our complete wedding guide for grooms.
What is the groom’s responsibility at a wedding?
First up, let’s talk about responsibilities. When it comes to wedding planning, it’s often assumed that one person, whether that be the bride or one of the grooms-to-be, will take on the majority of the planning.
It’s important to remember that your wedding day is a celebration of the both of you, and the planning process should be a joint effort so that no one is feeling the pressure of arranging the day alone.
From selecting the date to organising the honeymoon, grooms can support their partner by offering to share different responsibilities, or by working together to plan each aspect as a couple.
Not sure where to start?
Fear not, our groom’s wedding checklist will cover all of the basic duties and responsibilities involved in arranging the perfect day.
How do you plan a wedding as a groom? The first steps
One of the first (and most important!) tasks to take on together is setting a budget for the wedding. This will ensure that both you and your partner are on the same wavelength in terms of spending money available, and this will set a good foundation for priorities.
Once you’ve set your budget and chosen the time of year you’d like to get married, you and your partner should work together to choose your dream wedding venue and select your wedding date – then, the countdown is on!
Next up, choose the guest list and send out the save the dates. It’s at this point you might also find yourselves brainstorming colour schemes and design ideas, ready to order the invitations and any other wedding stationary needed.
Another important element of a wedding is booking major vendors such as caterers, photographers, videographers and a DJ or band. By assisting with these crucial steps, grooms can alleviate some of the stress from their partner and show their commitment to making the wedding a memorable event.
Plus, it’s always fantastic to see a wedding that reflects both partners’ personalities!
Selecting the groomsmen and booking wedding transport
Selecting groomsmen is another crucial task for grooms. This involves choosing close friends or family members who will stand by your side on your wedding day. Grooms will also typically take the lead in organising their attire, and that of their groomsmen, ensuring that they coordinate with the wedding theme.
Booking wedding transport is another key aspect of planning for grooms to consider. Whether you and your partner love classic cars or fancy something a bit more quirky, finding and arranging the transport for the wedding party ensures that everyone will make it to the venue in style and on time.
The finer details… Getting ready for the big day!
The venue and vendors are booked, outfits chosen and the invitations have been sent… So, what next?
As the RSVPs start to come in, grooms should then work alongside their partners to arrange the seating plan, and the wedding breakfast menus in line with any dietary requirements. And, speaking of food, the wedding cake! Choosing the wedding cake is another responsibility that couples can share. Work closely with your partner and the baker to create a confection that reflects your personalities and tastes.
What roles do the groom’s family play?
From supporting the groom emotionally, to assisting with wedding preparations, the groom’s family has their own set of responsibilities that contribute to creating a memorable celebration.
One of the primary roles of the groom’s family is to offer emotional support to the couple. Getting married can be a nerve-wracking experience, and having a supportive family can make all the difference. The groom’s family can calm nerves, boost confidence and ensure that the couple are mentally prepared for the big day.
The groom’s family can also play a part in various practical aspects of wedding planning – whether that’s helping to create favours or arranging transport for out-of-town guests, the groom’s family should support the couple where they can.
Who walks the groom down the aisle at a wedding?
The big day is finally here, and it’s time to celebrate! But who will walk you down the aisle?
Parents, guardians, friends, family members, siblings… Or walking down solo – grooms have so many options for their walk down the aisle. Choose whichever option you feel comfortable with, and make sure to practise ahead of time so that you feel confident about the real event.
Time for a toast… Creating the perfect groom’s speech
Creating the perfect speech is an opportunity for grooms to express their love and gratitude to both their partner and their loved ones on their wedding day.
As part of your pre-wedding preparations, ensure to spend time writing a heartfelt speech for your partner, wedding party and guests. Focus on you and your partner’s memories together, thanking your guests and, of course, don’t shy away from making the speech personal. After all, your guests are here to celebrate your love!
Planning the honeymoon
Finally, planning your honeymoon with your partner is a fun task to enjoy together. From researching destinations to arranging travel accommodations and activities, grooms can ensure that they have a romantic getaway after all the wedding festivities.
A groom’s wedding checklist
Now you know all of the essentials of wedding planning as a groom, it’s time to get started! Here’s your complete checklist of essentials pre-wedding, for the big day and post-wedding!
Wedding planning:
- Set a budget
- Choose a venue
- Select a date
- Choose a wedding colour scheme and design style
- Arrange the guest list and seating chart
- Order and send out save-the-dates and invitations
- Select groomsmen
- Arrange transport
- Book vendors such as caterers, photographers, DJs and/or band
- Choose wedding day attire for yourself and your groomsmen
- Sample and select food menu and wedding cake flavour and design
- Write and practise your speech
- Ask whoever will walk you down the aisle to do so
- Plan the Honeymoon
The big day:
- Get ready with your groomsmen
- Take pre-wedding photographs with your groomsmen
- Exchange vows
- Celebrate and enjoy your special day!
Post wedding:
- Pack for your Honeymoon and sort out any final travel arrangements
- Send out “thank you” cards
Planning your dream wedding? Please feel free to chat to our friendly team today.