Best Man speech Planning

Get Ahead of the Game and Plan Early

Preparation is the key for being the Best Man and planning ahead will make your life a lot less stressful and allows you to actually enjoy your role and the big day.

6 Months before the Day: Setting the Foundation

Have a chat with the Bride, Groom, and Chief Bridesmaid about the wedding plans. This will let you know what will be expected of you in the coming months ahead. Discuss the ushers and their responsibilities with the Bride and Groom. Start making arrangements for the stag party – find out who the Groom would like to invite and when they want to do it. Additionally, this is a great time to begin making preparations for your best man speech, ensuring it will be a showstopper.

3 Months before the Day: Building the Speech

Now collate all your ideas for the speech and, using the speech structure, slot them where they should go. If you're struggling to find original and personal content for your speech, our Speech SOS page offers ideas and thoughts to help create a bespoke speech. This is also a good time to visit the wedding venues to familiarize yourself with the locations.

1 Month before the Day: Finalizing Details

Arrange the transport for you and the Groom to the ceremony, ensuring a smooth journey. Take the time to rehearse your speech, but remain open to new ideas that may come to you. Check if the Groom has a valid passport for the honeymoon if required, as you don't want any last-minute surprises.

1 Week before the Day: Dotting the I's and Crossing the T's

Attend the wedding rehearsal to get a feel for the ceremony proceedings. Finalize your speech, making any necessary adjustments. Double-check that the Groom has all the necessary documents for the wedding ceremony and ensure he has his tickets for the honeymoon if required. Confirm that all the bridal party, including the ushers, have suitable transport arrangements for the day. Obtain a list of important family members from the Bride and Groom's families so you can inform the ushers about their seating arrangements for the ceremony.

The Day Before: Last-Minute Preparations

Collect any hired suits and accessories, ensuring everything is in order. Double-check that the Groom has everything he needs, from attire to personal items. Make sure you have all the important phone numbers handy, just in case you need to reach anyone. Fully charge your mobile phone – you're going to need it tomorrow.

The Big Day: A Day to Shine

Pre-Ceremony: Offer your assistance to the Groom, helping him with his tie and ensuring he looks sharp. Keep him calm and be a supportive presence. Check on buttonholes, rings, order of service sheets, and other important items. Obtain the rings and keep them safely until they are required – no pressure! Collect all the cards that will be read at the reception. Finally, make sure to get the Groom to the church with plenty of time to spare.

The Ceremony: Supporting Roles

During the ceremony, your role is crucial. Keep the Groom calm and composed, offering a reassuring presence. Stand on the right-hand side with the Groom and be ready to present the rings when the time comes. Help the photographer organize the wedding guests for the photos, ensuring a smooth process. Make sure everyone has transportation arranged for the reception. And lastly, keep calm yourself – your time to deliver the best man speech is near.

By following this comprehensive plan, you'll be well-prepared to fulfill your duties as the Best Man and deliver a memorable best man speech. Enjoy the journey and make the most of this special occasion!