September 21st, 2007 Tradition of the Day: Best Man
Tradition detail: The “Best Man” stands next to the groom during a typical American Christian wedding ceremony. He can have many duties, everything from getting the groom to the wedding on time to holding the real rings during the ceremony to toasting at the reception.
Where it comes from: I’ll give you a hint - it’s where many other traditions have come from. You got it - from long ago when many brides were kidnapped by their grooms. But you better believe the family was going to fight off the groom, so he needed some help. This came in the form of the Best Man, who also stands next to the groom at the church, ready to help fend off any relatives.
How couples are changing it: Your best man can be a best woman. The bride can have a best man. And you can have as many best people as you want (we promise). “Best Men” kind of has a ring to it.
Creative ideas: Honor your bridal attendants (best people) during your ceremony in new, creative ways. What if they all passed the rings towards you as they silently blessed them or said a silent wish? How about walking in with them? Exploring ways to unite your party and celebrate YOUR new unity is a great way to demonstrate how important these people are to you and how happy you are that they surround you.