Best man
Best man duties: the complete UK checklist
Most "best man duties" lists read like a corporate handover. Here's what actually matters, in the order you'll need it, with British weddings in mind.
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3–6 months before
- Organise the stag do (or delegate it — see below).
- Get measured for the suit early. Hire shops book up around peak season.
- Start collecting embarrassing-but-affectionate stories for the speech.
1–2 months before
- Speech first draft. Read it aloud — anything that doesn't sound like you, cut.
- Confirm transport for the groom on the day.
- Check the rings situation. Yes, both of them. Yes, again.
The week of
- Final suit fitting. Bring the shoes you're actually going to wear.
- Speech rehearsal. Time it. Aim for 5–7 minutes. Anything longer loses the room.
- Charge a portable battery for the groom's phone.
The morning of
- Bring: rings, speech, deodorant, plasters, painkillers, breath mints, cufflinks.
- Keep the groom fed and watered. He will forget to eat. You will not.
- Get him there 15 minutes earlier than the time you've told him.
During the ceremony & reception
- Hold the rings until asked. Do not "double-check" them mid-ceremony.
- Speech goes after the father of the bride and the groom — keep it tight.
- Look after older relatives during the reception. Someone has to.
The thank-yous
Small gifts for the ushers, parents, and anyone who pitched in extra are a nice touch and don't have to be expensive. We've put together a separate wedding party gift guidead if you need ideas at sensible prices.
The morning after
One job: check the suit's been returned to the right address by the deadline. That's usually where the deposit goes.
While you're here
Be My Best Man builds the digital reveal — a private link with a countdown, your photos and the ask. Five minutes to make, less than a round at the pub.