Category — Groom

Here’s one for you brides to pass on to your hubby-to-be.
You may have noticed your bride-to-be bordering on obsession over finding that perfect wedding dress. Did she start looking before you were even engaged? Crazy, right?
Maybe…
Maybe not.
As a guy, you’re not programmed to understand the bridal gown phenomenon. I mean, it’s not like you’re spending six months trying to find that perfect tuxedo (well maybe you are, but that’s for a different blog).
That being said, one thing you are programmed to do is be involved and understand why certain wedding planning activities matter so much. Never is this more important than during the bridal gown selection process. It’s cliché to say, but your bride has been planning her wedding day since she was a girl.
Here are some important time-lines to get used to, guys. This should help you get the idea of the amount of time that goes into the dress alone.
9-12 months – Length of time before wedding day that the bride should start looking for a dress
6 months – Length of time before wedding day that the dress should be ordered
2-3 months – Amount of time that should be counted on for alterations
2-3 weeks – Average amount of time in the bridesmaid dress selection process
3-4 – Number of arguments you just avoided by becoming familiar with the wedding dress shopping process.

Expert groom blogger Chris Easter is co-founder of TheManRegistry.com – the leading online resource for grooms. The site offers a unique wedding registry for men, groomsmen gift ideas and a wealth of content aimed at helping men make it through the wedding planning process in one piece.

Men love cars so it should come as no surprise that booking wedding day transportation is a favorite wedding planning duty for guys.

Whether it’s a stretch limo or even a classic Bentley or Rolls Royce, grooms are getting more creative with riding in style on the big day. Here are a few tips on making sure the booking process goes as smooth as possible:

• Plan ahead – Know how many people will be riding along and compare that with how many can legally ride in the limo. You’ll also need to tell the limo service how far you’ll be going and the scheduled arrival/departure times.
• Research your ride – Take special care to research all of the different styles/models of limos that are offered. You’re only getting married once (hopefully), so get it right! If you’re feeling generous, ask your fiancé for input.
• Get an estimate – Get a copy of the quoted estimate. You should have planned out a wedding budget, so you’ll need to know what you’ll be charged for the rental, mileage, and gratuity.
• Reserve early – Limos book up fast (especially in the busy spring wedding season). We recommend booking a minimum of three months in advance.
• Take note of safety issues – Confirm that the limo service you’re using is insured and abides by all state/national laws for car services. It’s smart to get a copy of their insurance and liability info as well.
• Add a special touch – If you’re planning on having the limo arrive with drinks or flowers already in it, talk to the limo company about any specials they offer or how you can get them the items in advance to the wedding day.

Chris Easter is co-founder of TheManRegistry.com – the leading online resource for engaged men. The site offers a unique wedding registry for men, personalized gifts and a wealth of content aimed at helping men make it through the wedding planning process in one piece.

by Chris Easter

Common perception is that your Best Man and groomsmen are all guys. And based on 99.9% of weddings, this perception is true. However, selecting the people that are going to be standing next to you on the most important day of your life isn’t always that cut and dry.

Wedding party members should be chosen based on who you want to share this special moment with.  If your closest friend is girl or if you share a special bond with your sister, it’s perfectly acceptable to have her serve as Best Man (in a dress, not a tux).

We should warn you that your other groomsmen will surely tease you a bit for the decision, but let’s be honest.. who gives a crap what they think? Obviously, the most important thing to remember is to think all wedding party member decisions through thoroughly. Remember, for 50% of you, this is the only wedding you’re going to have – so get it right!

Chris Easter is co-founder of TheManRegistry.com – the leading online resource for engaged men. The site offers a unique wedding registry for men, groomsman gifts and a wealth of content aimed at helping men make it through the wedding planning process in one piece. You can check out The Man Registry on Twitter and Facebook.