There's stuff for him to do too!
1 of 26
That stereotype of the newly engaged guy saying to his starry-eyed fiancée, "Just tell me when to show up," absolving him of any wedding planning duties for the next year, has taken a nosedive. Today grooms want to be involved because it's their day too. Here's what he can do.
1 of 26
2 of 26
12+ months
Figure out a Budget
You and the bride should add up how much each of you can contribute, plus any parental contributions, so you'll know whether you can plan a wedding for 20 or 200.
2 of 26
3 of 26
12+ Months
Figure out the Guest List
Focus on people who've been there for you and will continue to have your back in the future.
3 of 26
4 of 26
12+ Months
Choose a Date and Scout Sites
The more flexibility you have with the date, the better your chances of securing your preferred site for the ceremony and/or reception. Book as soon as you decide.
4 of 26
5 of 26
12+ Months
Pick Attendants
You'll need a best man and a couple of groomsmen and, if you've got more close friends, a few ushers to escort guests to their seats at the ceremony.
5 of 26
6 of 26
9+ Months
Book the Vendors
That includes the caterer, photographer, and musicians/dj.
6 of 26
7 of 26
9+ Months
Start Registering for Gifts
There's more to registering besides china and sheets. Include gifts that work with interests the two of you share, like a camping tent or camera.
7 of 26
8 of 26
9+ Months
Start Working on Your Wedding Website
Think of it as a 24-hour news channel, which you update frequently and is available to guests whenever they need info on your wedding.
8 of 26
9 of 26
6-9 Months
Book the Officiant and Florist
Meet with them to get a feel if they're right for you.
9 of 26
10 of 26
6-9 Months
Plan the Honeymoon
From relaxing on a faraway beach to speeding down a mountain, plan a trip you'll both cherish.
10 of 26
11 of 26
4-6 Months
Arrange Wedding-Day Transportation
If your style or budget is more car than limo, if it's got four wheels, it'll work.
11 of 26
12 of 26
2-6 Months
Order Your Suit or Tuxedo
Make sure the other men in the wedding party, and possibly her dad and yours, put their order in on time too.
12 of 26
13 of 26
2-6 Months
Choose Wedding Rings
Your rings could match or be totally different, based on your personal styles.
13 of 26
14 of 26
2 Months
Go to the Tastings
If your caterer or baker offers one, don't miss it—it's a chance to eat and choose your reception menu and/or cake flavors and fillings.
14 of 26
15 of 26
2 Months
Help with Invitations
Collect addresses of any of your friends or family members that the bride needs to send out the invites. Mail them six weeks ahead of the wedding.
15 of 26
16 of 26
4 Weeks
Get a Marriage License
Check your state's requirement and make it legal!
16 of 26
17 of 26
Four Weeks
Pick a Touching Mother-Son Song
Don't worry if you don't know how to dance. Hold Mom's hand up in the air, put your arm around her waist, and sway.
17 of 26
18 of 26
Week Of
Pick Up The Rings
You both need to try them on to make sure they fit.
18 of 26
19 of 26
Week Of
Get a Haircut
Don't wait until the day before when there'll be a million other things to do.
19 of 26
20 of 26
Day Before
Pick Up Tuxedoes
Make sure the other guys pick up and try on theirs too.
20 of 26
21 of 26
Day Before
Fill the Tip Envelopes
Give them to the best man to distribute at the wedding.
21 of 26
22 of 26
On The Wedding Day
Check That the Best Man Has the Rings
Even if he's the super-responsible type—and especially if he isn't—remind him to put the rings in the jacket or pants he's going to wear to the wedding.
22 of 26
23 of 26
On The Wedding Day
Eat Something Nutritious
A greasy plate of nachos won't pair well with a case of nerves, so go for the grilled chicken sandwich or a salad instead.
23 of 26
24 of 26
On The Wedding Day
Relax With Your Buddies
Play basketball, watch The Simpsons, go to breakfast with your siblings—whatever will relax you.
24 of 26
25 of 26
On The Wedding Day
Do a Dress Rehearsal of Your Wedding Vows
Your guests want to hear them so practice speaking in a loud, steady voice—no screaming but no mumbling either.
25 of 26
26 of 26
On The Wedding Day
Show Up On Time
If anyone gets to be late, it's the bride!