I'm not saying this is you, but typically, the groom knows only two things going into the wedding day: what they're wearing, and where and when to show up. A majority of the grooms I've photographed barely know that they even hired me, much less the timeline of their own wedding day. I get it, because I am a guy, however, there are a few tips and advice for the groom based on my experience that I'd love to pass on to you.
Do your best to get involved with some of the wedding decision-making process. This not only de-stresses your bride, but also shows that you care about how your relationship is represented on your most important day together.
Consider buying your groomsmen suits along with your own. I know it sounds crazy, but buying their suits can act as the groomsmen gift you'd already have to buy them. The best part is that there are very affordable options starting at just $49 from sites like; https://alaindupetit.com/. Plus, it's highly likely that your guy friends don't even own a suit to begin with, which would benefit them and probably save you money on rentals.
Think of your suit color/style when paired with your bride and venue ambiance. I recommend textured suits and contrasting colors. Avoid grey for now. Also, in my opinion, black tuxedos with white undershirts give either quartet or wait staff vibes. Consider doing a black suit with a black undershirt instead. Most importantly, make sure you're professionally tailored yet comfortable. And you can always rock Converse shoes!
When wearing your suit jacket, always ensure your top button is buttoned, unless you're sitting down. Another exception to this is when in photos while both of your arms are around people next to you.
Remember to take out the temporary stitching if you buy or rent a new suit. Not only the stitching on your vent, but also remove the stitched tag on your wrist sleeve.
Learn how to tie a neck and bow tie well in advance of your wedding day. I'd also recommend encouraging your groomsmen to learn this as well. This is an easy how-to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXJx8j7JpKY
Avoid suspenders unless you're a suspender pro. Generally, you and your groomsmen will be stressed getting them to look and fell right the day of and possibly giving yourself a moose knuckle [aka male camel toe].
Consider accenting your suit with a floral pocket square or floral lapel crawler instead of a the standard boutonniere.
Make sure you shave your face/neck the night before your wedding. Too often guys make the mistake of shaving just before putting on their suit. Mistake! Why you ask? Because your neck will look like someone rubbed it with a cheese grater.
You can apply baby powder to your feet so they are less sweaty walking around. Also, don't wear a brand new pair of shoes the day of your wedding. Break them in beforehand.
If you want/have a pocket square, learn the ways to properly fold them here; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFy00ZFDr34. But, make sure you pick the style and inform your best man to disseminate to your guys. If you do get a pocket square, also get the pocket square holder. Those suckers always slide down on their own.
Don't go overboard with your cologne. If you sweat, the combined smells may blend together making you smell similar to cat vomit. Instead, once you're fully dressed, spray lightly in front of your body and walk into the sprayed mist. You can do this twice, but not more.
On your wedding day, do not shower a few minutes before you need to get dressed. Most of us take hot showers, so you need time for your body to cool down. If not, you'll immediately have a sweaty dress shirt and feel like you need to shower again. Simply allot more time to relax after your shower prior to dressing.
This should go without saying, but don't get a spray tan!
Do not chew gum. Choose mouthwash or breath mints.
Rely heavily on your best man to do the following; carry all your belongings you may need for the day (wallet, phone, comb, safety pins, deodorant, cologne, hair products, change of clothes for reception, etc.) The best man should also monitor your cell phone for communicating with guests or your family and also keep you abreast on time. And make sure your best man is wrangling/keeping track of all the groomsmen.
Make one of your groomsmen the lint roller guy. If you wear a dark suit, lint will be all over you!
Make sure you use the bathroom before you walk down the aisle.
Don't lock your knees while standing at the altar
Hold your first kiss for at least three seconds. Going back for seconds is always appreciated.
Temper your use of intoxicating substances on the day of your wedding. We need you coherent and aware for most of the day. Once the reception starts, you do you!
Learn some dance moves
Learn how to dip your spouse in advance. If you do decide to dip them, make sure that you dip them parallel to our cameras, not with their heads at our cameras.
Remember to smile and to enjoy those fleeting moments!
Hopefully, some of these tips will make your day go a bit smoother. And if you give us the great pleasure of photographing your wedding, I'll be there for you. I gotchu.
Keep it, chi-zee!
Philly cheeze
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