What Every Groom-to-be Should Know

So you're a man who has decided to take the plunge but feel a little lost?  Everyone wants to help your Bride-to-be, but what about you?  Here's a list of the top 5 things a Groom-to-be should know about weddings as he plans to meet his Bride at the end of the aisle.

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So you're a man who has decided to take the plunge but feel a little lost?  Everyone wants to help your Bride-to-be, but what about you?  Contrary to popular belief, it is not unusual for the Groom-to-be to look forward to enjoying the big day just as much as his blushing Bride!  So here's a list of the top 5 things a Groom-to-be should know about weddings as he plans to meet his Bride at the end of the aisle.

1. Ring Size

Want to propose to your girlfriend but don't know how to get her ring size?  What’s the easiest way?  Find a ring she wears on her right hand ring finger and take it into the jeweler for sizing- it will be pretty comparable to her left hand.  In fact, if your girlfriend is right-handed, her left hand ring finger will be a slight bit smaller, which is great insurance for the big moment.

2. Wedding Budget

Have money concerns about the wedding? Fear not, the new platinum wedding is custom and couture, not costly or commercialized.  So take the time to help your fiancé start her planning process by doing some research online to find inexpensive or do-it-yourself options to help you both save money.  If you and your Bride (or a creative friend) design your own monogram, print your own invitations, etc, you can be sure your wedding is completely one-of-a-kind and then splurge on items that mean the most. If her parents (or your parents) are helping to pay for the wedding be sure to have a say in the budget before the purchasing begins- that way you can both have the wedding of your dreams. And if your fiancé has an easier time spending cash than you do (and you want to have a say in the impending "budget conversations" as the time nears) just keep abreast of the numbers so you will have a leg to stand on and won't merely snap or react emotionally.

3. Bridezilla Concerns

First of all, don't believe the hype- your Bride won't magically morph into a fire-breathing monster just because you put a ring on her finger.  The reality of the situation is, though, if you are choosing to propose to your girlfriend you probably have a pretty good idea of her natural personality.  The thing about weddings is that it will amplify those parts of her personality ten-fold.  A wedding is an emotional time for both of you, and it just so happens that women tend to be more emotional than men.  So try and understand if she is a little off her game, but make sure to draw limits if her attitude gets out of hand or if her emotions start to make the best of her.  Remember, you are getting married because you want to make each other's life easier, so start now and be a little more supportive during her stressful wedding planning months.

4. Groom Responsibilities

Although a lot of couples are working together to pay and plan for their own wedding, traditionally, the Groom and/or his family is responsible for the following: the engagement ring and wedding band, honeymoon bookings, the rehearsal dinner, his side of the guest list, choosing groomsmen and the best man, renting the formal wear, and purchasing his wedding party gifts. Some other areas where Grooms-to-be most often feel comfortable helping out are the budget, the engagement announcements, printing maps and directions for guests, and talking to vendors.  It's also a good idea to work on a toast and a thank you speech, and purchase a pre-wedding keepsake gift for your Bride if possible.

5. Wedding Night

Bottom line is- it's your night- plan for it to be the one you've been looking forward to but have a back up plan for the next day if you or your Bride are too exhausted (or drunk) to enjoy it. If you aren't going directly to your honeymoon destination, rent a room at a local spa, resort, or B&B.  And, many hotels will allow you to take advantage of late check out times if you ask, so take a breather and just enjoy your time together! And, if you need any tips for the wedding night festivities, talk to a friend frankly, or purchase a book or two from your favorite bookstore.  Even if you don't think you need it- it'll be worth it for years to come.

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