Being honoured with the title of best man comes with much responsibility and if you’re determined to make a good impression, you’re going to have to put in the hours to truly live up to the title. We’ve put together the ultimate best man’s checklist to make sure you are prepared for anything and everything that may be asked of you.

Simply tick off the jobs as you go along – and don’t worry, you can thank us later.

Pre-Wedding Jitter Jobs

Get to know the maid of honour, you never know when you’ll need her on your side! 

Help plan the engagement party.

Co-ordinate the tuxes and make sure all the groomsmen show up for the fitting. Always take extra care when it comes to selecting colours – navy has the tendency of looking a lot like black when you’re under pressure! 

Plan the bachelor party – this includes drawing up an invite list, keeping track of the budget and making sure everyone gets back home in one piece! 

Once the bride and groom have decided on a venue it will be your job to arrange wedding accommodation and transport for the bridal party.

The groom may need some help organising a getaway vehicle for himself and his new bride, as well as arranging and booking the honeymoon.

At the rehearsal dinner have a mini-toast prepared to thank everyone attending and wishing the bride and groom-to-be a happy wedding day.

Taking Care of Things on the Big Day

Make sure the groom and groomsmen are suited and booted in time – no one wants to leave the bride waiting!

Double-check the location of the wedding rings and keep them in a safe place ready to hand to the groom during the ceremony.

Help seat any last minute guests and welcome both bridal parties parents before heading back to the alter to await the bride’s arrival. (That is unless you’ll be accompanying the maid of honour down the aisle.) Note to self: Do not run, shuffle or dance your way down the aisle! 

Once the vows have been declared and the wedding photos taken, it will be up to you to arrive at the reception venue ahead of time to make sure everything is in place to welcome the newlyweds.

Get ready for your big toast before warming up for the first dance…and don’t forget to dance with all the mums! 

Always make yourself available to help handle any crisis moments at the reception.

If the newlyweds are heading straight off to their honeymoon, have all transport arrangements ready and waiting for them to make their escape. You may also want to have a taxi service lined up for the guests.

Above all keep close to the groom and do your utmost to make sure he’s having the best time possible. That’s what best mans are for after all.