The biggest mistakes groomsmen make on the wedding day are being late, forgetting their attire, and not supporting the groom when it matters most. These slip-ups may seem small but can cause stress and disrupt the flow of the celebration. As a groomsman, your role goes beyond standing at the altar—you’re there to help the day run smoothly.
By avoiding common groomsmen mistakes like skipping rehearsals, overindulging in drinks, or ignoring etiquette, you’ll make the groom’s day far more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll break down the top groomsmen mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
1. Showing Up Late to the Wedding
One of the biggest groomsmen mistakes is arriving late, which can throw off the entire wedding timeline. Being on time is a core part of groomsmen duties and shows respect for the groom and the couple. A well-prepared groomsman follows the wedding day schedule closely to avoid unnecessary stress.
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Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early to the venue.
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Keep travel and parking arrangements planned in advance.
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Sync with the groom’s schedule and wedding planner.
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Add "arrive on time" to your personal groomsmen checklist.
2. Forgetting or Misplacing Groomsmen Attire
A groomsman not having the right attire can ruin photos and create last-minute panic. Proper preparation and organization are key groomsmen responsibilities. Having your suit, tie, shoes, and accessories ready the night before ensures a stress-free wedding morning.
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Double-check your groomsmen attire days before the wedding.
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Pack all accessories: cufflinks, tie, pocket square, shoes.
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Keep attire in a garment bag to avoid wrinkles or damage.
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Have a backup plan in case of wardrobe malfunctions.
3. Overindulging in Drinks Before the Ceremony
Celebrating is natural, but one common groomsmen mistake is drinking too much before the wedding ceremony. A responsible groomsman balances fun with professionalism, ensuring he’s fully present for his groomsmen duties.
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Limit alcohol intake before the ceremony begins.
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Stay hydrated and eat properly before drinking.
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Save heavy celebrating for the reception.
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Support other groomsmen in staying responsible.
4. Skipping Rehearsals or Pre-Wedding Events
Rehearsals and pre-wedding events are important for coordination. When groomsmen skip these, it causes confusion and makes the wedding day harder for everyone. Being present shows commitment to your role and strengthens the groom’s trust.
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Attend the rehearsal dinner and practice session.
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Confirm arrival times with the wedding planner or groom.
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Use this time to ask questions about your groomsmen duties.
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Treat pre-wedding events as part of your responsibility.
5. Not Participating in Wedding Day Activities
Some groomsmen forget that being active and engaged throughout the day is part of their duties. Whether it’s group photos, speeches, or helping guests, participation ensures the groom feels supported.
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Be present for all scheduled group photos.
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Assist in ushering guests or helping with small tasks.
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Engage in wedding traditions and activities.
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Stay attentive and available when the groom needs you.
6. Ignoring Groomsmen Etiquette and Responsibilities
Ignoring groomsmen etiquette is a major mistake that can affect the flow of the wedding. From dressing appropriately to following the schedule, etiquette is key to being a reliable groomsman.
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Respect dress code and follow wedding traditions.
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Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
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Stick to your assigned groomsmen duties.
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Be polite and supportive to guests and family.
7. Failing to Support the Groom When Needed
A groomsman’s main role is to stand by the groom. Forgetting this duty is one of the most hurtful mistakes. Support can be as simple as keeping him calm, reminding him of the timeline, or helping with last-minute needs.
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Check in on the groom throughout the day.
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Offer encouragement before the ceremony.
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Handle small errands so the groom stays stress-free.
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Be available for emotional and practical support.
8. Lack of Communication with the Wedding Party
Poor communication is a common groomsmen mistake that leads to confusion. Staying in sync with the wedding planner, groom, and other groomsmen ensures smooth coordination on the big day.
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Join group chats or calls for updates.
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Share your location if running late.
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Stay informed about changes in the schedule.
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Confirm your duties with the best man or groom.
9. Distracting Attention from the Groom
The spotlight should always stay on the groom and bride. When groomsmen pull focus with inappropriate behavior or attention-seeking, it creates unnecessary distractions.
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Avoid loud jokes, pranks, or over-the-top gestures.
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Support the groom rather than competing for attention.
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Keep speeches and toasts respectful and relevant.
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Focus on celebrating the couple, not yourself.
10. Not Being Prepared for Photos
Wedding photos are memories that last a lifetime, and unprepared groomsmen can ruin them. Looking sharp and being photo-ready is part of your groomsmen responsibilities.
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Be dressed and ready on time for photo sessions.
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Keep grooming essentials (comb, lint roller, handkerchief).
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Follow the photographer’s instructions promptly.
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Smile, stay engaged, and maintain proper posture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What are the rules for groomsmen?
Groomsmen are expected to show up on time, dress in the chosen attire, and participate fully in wedding events. They should support the groom, help with small tasks, and keep the day running smoothly. Staying responsible, avoiding distractions, and being dependable are key. Overall, their role is to assist, celebrate, and honor the groom throughout the occasion.
Q2: What is the 30 5 rule for weddings?
The 30/5 rule helps keep weddings on schedule and stress-free. Guests should be seated 30 minutes before the ceremony begins to avoid last-minute delays. By 5 minutes before, the entire wedding party should be lined up and ready to process. This ensures a smooth, organized, and elegant start to the big day.
Q3: What not to do as a best man?
As best man, avoid overshadowing the groom, arriving late, or forgetting key responsibilities like holding the rings. Drinking too much before your toast or making inappropriate jokes can ruin the moment. It’s also important not to wing your speech—preparation matters. Stay respectful, dependable, and supportive throughout the wedding.
Q4: What is inappropriate for a wedding?
Certain behaviors and choices are considered poor etiquette at weddings. Guests should avoid wearing white, arriving late, or disrupting the ceremony with phones or cameras. Overindulging in alcohol, causing drama, or making negative comments are also inappropriate. The focus should always remain on celebrating the couple and their special day.
