History
If you thought the law required you to have a best man as your witness, you would be wrong. The best man is a custom that comes from the quality of a man’s swordsmanship. Once upon a time, weddings were business transactions and not unions of love.
The groom needed to find a good swordsmanship to help deal with the transaction that is called a wedding. Sometimes the best man may need address the bride’s angry family members or find a runaway bride that might not consent to the union. Today, a best man is usually a best friend chosen from an ongoing relationship, not skills.
Traditional Role of the Best Man
First, let’s take a quick look at what the traditional role of the best man actually entails. Simply, the best man is expected to give a best man’s speech, keep the wedding rings safe, and hand them over during the ceremony, and organize the other groomsmen and ushers.
Who Is Usually the Best Man At A Wedding?
The best man is often the closest friend of the groom or close relative. There are no restrictions as to who you pick to be your best man.
Can There Be Two Best Men?
Of course! The decision as to how many best men the groom would like by his side is completely up to him.
What Are The Best Man Duties?
The best man’s duties involve:
- Writing a poignant and relevant best man’s speech
- Assist with picking the suits
- Help the groom get ready for the ceremony
- Enter with the groom
- Look after the wedding rings
- Greet the wedding guests
- Dance with the maid of honor
- (Sometimes) sign the marriage license as a witness
- Arrange transportation for the newlyweds
