The Groom's Wedding Checklist

What does every groom need to have done before the wedding?

This helpful checklist will keep you on track.

In the Months Before the Wedding

You are traditionally responsible to pay the following: The rings, including the engagement ring and both of your wedding bands; your tuxedo; the rehearsal dinner (You share this responsibility with your family, usually your mother and father.); the drinks at the reception; the marriage license, if there is a fee; the officiate (the one who legally registers your marriage and delivers the marriage vows), if there is a fee; the honeymoon.

Be sure that your bride approves of all your purchases. You will regret it later if you include her in your plans.

Besides paying for the honeymoon, you are responsible to plan it.

One Month Before the Wedding

You need to have your marriage license. Don't wait until the last minute.

And, you need to keep it in a safe place. Or, you need to give it to your best man, if you think he will be the better choice of the two of you.

You may also wish to give the wedding bands to your best man, for the same reason.

You need to make sure the officiate knows to be available at the correct time and in the correct place for the ceremony.

By now, you and your groomsmen (ushers) should have ordered your tuxedos.

In the Week Before the Wedding

Get a haircut or have your hair groomed properly.

Make sure your shoes are polished, if appropriate.

Gather the following items: tuxedo jacket, vest, slacks, and cummerbund; shoes and socks; belt or braces; rings and marriage license. If your best man has the rings and license, remind him to have these at the wedding.

On the Wedding Day

Double check the time you are scheduled to arrive at the church or wedding hall.

Be there promptly.

Have someone double-check your appearance to make sure everything is in place.

Follow the lead of your wedding choreographer and stand in your place at the altar or podium.

Take a deep breath, look at your beautiful bride, listen to the officiate, say your vows, and kiss the bride. Walk to the back of the room, sign the marriage certificate, and ....

Well, that's it. You're married. The rest of the events that follow won't change that fact.

So, you can relax a little. Have a good time.