The Grooms' Role

     Contrary to previous rumors, grooms do have more to do than just "show up at the church on time".  There may be some who choose not to be involved in the wedding planning process, but many of today's grooms are interested in helping to plan this milestone moment in their lives.  They want to make the wedding itself a truly shared experience.  Anna Post assembled the list below for the Emily Post Web site.
     Each of these "duties" will not only help the wedding planning process, but will truly make the groom feel more a part of the plans.  He certainly can help searching out and selecting the venue for the ceremony and reception, establishing the budget, creating the guest list, making gift registry selections and the critical job of keeping his parents in the loop regarding wedding plans.
     In addition to these functions, the groom's list includes:

• Selecting the engagement ring - though these days brides may also be involved in selection.
• Choosing his wedding party - best man, groomsmen and ushers.
• Choosing the attire for the groom's wedding party - in keeping with the style of the wedding.
• Selecting the thank you gifts for his wedding party.
• Selecting the bride's wedding gift.
• Compiling the groom's part of the guest list and making sure that his parents provide their guest list in a timely manner.
• Choosing the wedding bands together. 
• Arranging for and purchasing the marriage license.
• Arranging for transportation from the ceremony to the reception site.
• Standing in the receiving line and greeting all the guest at the reception.
• Dancing the first dance with the bride, dancing with the couple's respective mothers and the maid/matron of honor.
• Making appropriate toasts at both the rehearsal dinner and the reception.