On your wedding day your best man has many duties
and requirements to fulfil, so you need to choose someone who has plenty
energy and is well organised. He should be over 18 years of age so that
he can sign the marriage license, or in a Jewish wedding sign the
Ketubah (Marriage Contract).
Prior the wedding
The best man plans the bachelor party, be aware though that many
organise ‘surprises on the night so be prepared for just about anything!
Aside from the traditional stag party, the best man should be
imaginative when planning the bachelor party. Some ideas include a golf
outing, fishing trip, ski/snowboarding vacation, Las Vegas or another
trip, just a dinner for the groom and his friends. or the traditional
‘pub crawl’ Whatever is planned, the best man should collect the money,
and make all the arrangements. The groom should not be involved in the
planning or payment for the bachelor party.
The Best Man also helps find accommodations for out-of-town guests,
secure and coordinate the tuxedo rentals, and if limousines are not
being used making sure the groom gets to the ceremony on time.
At the Wedding Ceremony
The Best Man is responsible for producing the rings by either holding
them, or removing them from the ring bearer pillow. He also makes sure
the officiant's fee is paid. He signs the certificates and generally
escorts the Maid of Honour.
At the Wedding Reception
The most memorable and important duty of the best man occurs during the
reception is the toast, known as the Best Man's speech. This should be
more than just a simple toast. It should be either a heart-warming or
funny tale (preferably both) of the Groom. He should mention the Bride
as well and the toast at the end of the speech should wish a long happy
marriage.
He should also dance with the Bride, Maid of Honour, and other
Bridesmaids during the party. Lastly, at the conclusion of the
reception, he should escort the groom and his bride to their exit and
see them off.