
Congratulations you are a groom! Planning a wedding can be one of the most stressful (financially and emotionally) times in your life but we are here to remind you that wedding planning can actually be fun. Yes, it can be fun for the groom as well. :) Now that you are getting married you probably have one large question looming in your head.
What exactly do I have to do??
Depending on your fiancé it could be very little or a lot! Some brides have been planning their wedding for years and already have a clear picture about the colors, flowers, food, and location. They may actually need little input from you. Other brides are in the beginning phases of researching and see thousands of ideas they love and therefore it can be extremely overwhelming and stressful for them. Regardless, your one role, which you have to play at all times, is to be her #1 supporter. Just think of it as marriage in training :).
However, this is not the only role you have to play. Although you may not care about centerpieces or bridesmaid dresses or flowers here are a few things you can get involved in. Talk to your finance, suggest you manage some (or all) of these elements and let her focus in on some of the other details. Remember this wedding is about you two becoming partners for life; you are there to support and assist one another in good times and bad. These next few months of planning are a great way to get a jump start on that partnership and set you up for success.
1. Your family & money -Asking your parents if they will be assisting you financially with the wedding can be awkward and uncomfortable. It can also cause tension. In order to minimize this you should talk to your parents alone. Ask them specifics and be clear on how you envision their responsibilities to help eliminate any tension in the future.
2. Rehearsal dinner –Traditionally the grooms parents pay for this however, this is not always the case anymore. However this is one area where you can coordinate with your family and help make the arrangements to free your finance up so she can focus on other details.
3. Groomsmen –I am sure we all have some wild groomsmen story we could share. Your goal: to keep this from happening. You should be the main point of contact with your groomsmen, keep them informed on the details, lay out their responsibilities and keep them under control :).
4. Food & Beverage Selection -We all know men love to eat and drink! This is a win-win scenario for you. Set up tastings with your caterer, baker etc. This is a great opportunity to taste a bunch of different food and help solidify the meal you will serve. In terms of beverages, this is a great way to get your groomsmen involved! Host a party and try out different beers, wines and recipes for a signature cocktail.
5. Music/DJ -Whether you are hiring a DJ, band or using an iPod music is a key element to any wedding. Offer to come up with a suggested play list and then have your finance go over it after. (Remember to include a list of songs you absolutely do not want hear as well if you are hiring a DJ or band).
6. Honeymoon -Once you and your fiancé have decided on a location and discussed possible activities you would like to do together, offer to book them. You can book the hotel, flights, activities, and keep it all together. This would be a great opportunity to throw in a surprise excursion or activity as well!