groomsman

This article refers to the wedding participant. A Groomsman is also a type of lawn ornament.

In a North American/Australian or British wedding a groomsman or usher is one of the (usually) male attendants to the bridegroom in a wedding ceremony. Usually the groom selects his closest friends and/or relatives to serve as a groomsmen, and it is considered an honor to be selected. From his groomsmen, the groom chooses one to serve as best man. In a typical "Anglosphere" white wedding, the duties of a groomsman typically include some or all of the following:

• helping the best man plan the bachelor party(U.S.)/Stag Night(U.K)/Buck's Night(Aus.) for the groom
• ushering guests to their seats before the ceremony
• escorting the bridesmaids down the aisle during the ceremony and reception
• giving speeches and toasts (however, this duty is usually performed by the best man)
• and sometimes dancing with bridesmaids and other single female guests at the reception

The groom may also designate other male friends and relatives to act as ushers, whose main task is ushering guests to their seats before the ceremony.

In a military officers wedding, the role of groomsman is replaced by Swordsmen of the Sword Honor Guard. They are usually picked as close personal friends of the groom who have served with him/her. Their role includes forming the traditional sword arch for the married couple and guests to walk through.

Gifts

To show appreciation and gratitude, the bridegroom will traditionally purchase gifts for his best man and groomsmen. These gifts are generally known as groomsmen gifts. Groomsmen gifts serve as both a thank you to all the groomsmen or ushers who take the time (and spend the money) to be a part of your wedding celebration. Groomsmen gifts are also a way to commemorate the special day for years to come.

Traditionally, the bridegroom will give a gift to both his father, the bride's father and the ringbearer.

See also

zh-yue:戥穿石

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