Wedding planning isn't just for brides. Grooms can help, too. Here, easy ways to get your guy involved.
By: Jennifer Lazarus- If your guy’s a “foodie,” let him determine the menu, suggest Judith Sherven and Jim Sniechowski, authors of The Smart Couple’s Guide to the Wedding of Your Dreams (New World Library). Even if he isn’t an expert, be sure he accompanies you on your taste-sampling visits to caterers, adds Naylor.
- What groom wouldn’t jump at the chance to pick the big-day transportation? “Exotic car rentals are huge right now,” says Naylor. “The Rolls-Royce, the Bentley, the Lotus Esprit, the Hummer stretch limousines—guys get to test-drive all these exotic cars.”
- Is he a secret fashionista? Have him enjoy choosing his own big-day ensemble, whether it’s a linen tux for a beach wedding or a black tux paired with a colorful vest for a more formal affair. Ask him to help you play matchmaker and create seating arrangements for your reception tables. “Matching personalities can be fun and exciting for the couple to do together,” says Goldberg.
- These days, people register for all kinds of nontraditional wedding presents. He can take care of signing up for a flat-screen TV, a DVD player or even a computer.
- “A lot more grooms are taking charge of the diplomatic issues that come up between all the people involved in the wedding planning,” says Naylor. Does he have the skills to mediate between you and your respective families if disagreements arise and discussions heat up? If so, then by all means let him be the official peacekeeper!
- If you’re worried about the best man’s (or anyone’s) toast, ask your fiancé to have a heart-to-heart talk with them about your concerns, suggests Sherven. Nervous about his Uncle Bob’s tendency to party a bit too hearty? Let your groom know about your concerns beforehand, so that he can handle any situation that might arise (it’s always better to be safe than sorry!).
- Make him the unofficial tour guide for your out-of-town guests. Ask him to create a list of sightseeing spots, restaurants and bars in your area so your guests can enjoy your wedding location.
- “More and more men want to take dance lessons because they don’t want to make a fool out of themselves during the first dance,” says Naylor. Have him research local instructors and studios.
- Ask him to put on a show to wow your guests by creating a PowerPoint presentation that includes childhood photos of each of you, as well as ones that document your dating relationship and your courtship. This is a surefire crowd-pleaser!
- In regular “wedding update” meetings, get his input on decisions. As time goes on and the big day gets closer, he’ll become more and more involved with the details of the day—and that’s just as it should be. After all, the wedding belongs to both of you!
