What Grooms Should Do the Morning of the Wedding

It's more than showing up to the altar on time!

In order to make sure you’re properly prepared for photos, the “first look” if applicable, and even the ceremony itself, below is a simple to-do list for grooms to help you on your way.

groom-getting-ready-wearing-gold-bracelet-and-designer-watch-before-ceremony-cuffs-tuxedo-jacket
Photo: Lin & Jirsa Photography

People often joke that all the groom has to do for a wedding is show up on time in a suit, but obviously there is much more to it than that. How much anyone is involved in the planning process really depends on each individual couple, however, when it comes to getting ready the morning of the wedding day there are still several things that apply to just about every groom. In order to make sure you’re properly prepared for photos, the “first look” if applicable, and even the ceremony itself, below is a simple to-do list for grooms to help you on your way.

what grooms should do while getting ready in the morning

Photo by Bryan Miller Photography

- Wake up on time. In order to arrive on time, you have to give yourself enough time in the morning to actually get ready. Set an alarm – or more than one if you tend to hit the snooze button – and try to get to bed early enough to get a good night’s sleep the night before. 

- Eat a healthy breakfast. You have a long day ahead of you, and it’s important to fuel up with the energy you’ll need until the reception dinner arrives. 

- Groom yourself. If you’re a morning shower type of guy, today is not the day to skip it. Trim or shave any facial hair as necessary, or head to a barbershop and let the pros take care of it and enjoy a little pampering. 

- Send a letter or gift. Show your future spouse how much you care by having a special gift sent to their room, or even just a simple love letter expressing how exciting this moment is and your hopes for the future. 

- Bond with the groomsmen. If the nerves are getting the best of you, some quality time with your best pals should help to take the edge off. Share a drink together (even if it’s just coffee) and reminisce, get advice from your already-married friends, and give this time the celebratory feeling it deserves. 

- Take a deep breath. It’s okay if the magnitude of the day starts to feel a little overwhelming. Just take a deep breath or whatever simple trick you have to help calm down.