As a groom, make sure you don't forget anything.
The ultimate wedding checklist 2025
Article: Jens Al-Sheikhali & Ditte Turatti
Published: 08/09 2024
Theme: Guide
Every spring, the wedding season slowly gets underway. And that means both guests and grooms have to make the final decision about their attire for the big day. If you're one of the lucky ones planning a wedding of your own, check out this quick guide to men's wedding etiquette.
What should I wear to a wedding as a groom?
- Suit: In our opinion, there's only one answer for the most appropriate attire for a wedding—whether you're a male guest or the groom himself.
- Colour: The most common suit color is dark blue or navy—other popular colours are dark gray and light gray.
- Alternative: You can actually choose your suit color, but remember that it should reflect the dress code you've chosen for your wedding.
What should I look for in a suit?
- Sleeve length: Sleeves should generally reach the wrist, so the jacket sleeve should be about 1.5 cm shorter than the shirt sleeve.
- Trouser length: Generally, it's said that the hem of your trousers should rest on the top of your shoe. However, there's a bit more leeway here, and you can choose trousers that are either slightly longer or slightly shorter.
- Buttons: How do you fasten the jacket at the front? It depends a bit on how many buttons you have—1, 2, or 3. But the rule is: Always, maybe, never. That means always button the top button (or the only one you have), you decide whether to button the middle button (with three buttons), and never button the bottom button (with two or three buttons).
- Get it adjusted: Are you between sizes? It's best to choose the slightly longer version and have a tailor shorten it later.
Accessories for the suit
- The Shirt: The most important accessory for a suit is the shirt
- Colours: A white shirt is a safe bet in most cases. But in general, a white or light blue shirt goes well with most colours.
- Fit: The shirt shouldn't be too loose, as it will bulge under the jacket and be uncomfortable.
- Additional Details: Many people choose a tie for the big day—choose something that matches the color of the suit.
- Botonniere: It should match the bridal bouquet. Neither the tie nor the pocket square should overshadow the boutonniere.
- Shoes: The quick recommendation for shoes is to go black! This is the safe choice in most cases—and if you're wearing a black suit, it's the only choice. With a navy blue suit, you can choose either brown or black shoes.
The Groom's 10 Wedding Commandments:
- Bachelor Party: Enjoy a relaxing evening with some of your best friends the day before the wedding, but take it easy so you're fresh on the big day.
- The Ceremony: Traditionally, the groom should arrive at the church about 30 minutes before the ceremony, before the bride.
- The Rings: Perhaps the most important thing. On the day of the wedding, the groom should have the rings in hand—they can possibly be left to the best man.
- The Bridal Bouquet: The groom should take care of the bridal bouquet. Traditionally, you should choose the flowers, but be sure to ask the bride about her preferences.
- The Speech: The groom's speech is number two on the list—after the father-in-law.
- The Underwear: Be prepared to show your boxer shorts to both the bride and all the guests. Choose stylish black or go bold with vibrant colours.
- Extra Socks: The groom's socks are traditionally cut after the wedding dance. If you plan on dancing all night, bring an extra pair.
- The Dance: Practice the wedding dance—and remember, you'll have to dance with your mother-in-law right after the dance.
- Carrying the Bride: While you should enjoy your wedding reception, remember that you also need to conserve some energy for after the reception—after all, you'll have to carry the bride over the threshold!
- The Morning Gift: It's important to find a good and, above all, personal morning gift—so not just cookware or cutlery.
If you'd like to read more about wedding attire, you can find inspiration in our articles "Ready for Summer Weddings" and "Unsure about what to wear for your wedding? We'll guide you to the perfect suit."