Groom’s Guide: How to Nail Your Role on the Wedding Day
Let’s be real—grooms don’t always get the spotlight when it comes to wedding prep. But trust me, there’s a lot you can do (without much stress) to make the day smoother, more fun, and extra photogenic. This guide is for you if you want to show up, support your bride, and look sharp while doing it.
Groom’s Detail Checklist
Yes, we photograph your details too! Having your items laid out and ready helps us move fast and get those elevated flat lay shots that match your bride’s.
Have these items ready before I or my second shooter arrive:
- Your suit or tux (pressed + on a nice hanger)
- Tie or bow tie
- Shoes and socks
- Boutonniere
- Watch, cufflinks, or other accessories
- Cologne bottle
- Handwritten note or vow book
- Any heirlooms or sentimental items
- Gift for your bride (if you're exchanging)
Bonus: Got cigars, a whiskey bottle, or anything fun? Let’s include it!
Getting to Know Your Second Shooter
While I’m with your bride, my second shooter is with you—and they’re not just there to click the shutter.
They’ll be documenting:
- The pre-ceremony chill (or hype!) with your crew
- You getting dressed and buttoned up
- Quiet candid moments—yes, they exist
- Any goofy or heartfelt interactions that help tell the full story
So when they show up, treat them like part of the team. They’ll guide you through everything and make it painless.
What to Expect
Spoiler alert: no modeling experience needed. Here’s what the day usually looks like from your side:
- A clear photo timeline with buffer time built in (I’ve got you!)
- Relaxed, natural posing—nothing stiff or forced
- Lots of real moments with your friends, family, and your bride
- Some photos with just the guys, and some with your parents or siblings if they’re nearby
- Me checking in with you (or your second shooter) if anything changes
3 Ways to Get to the Party Faster
Want to get through photos quickly and enjoy your cocktail hour?
- Be ready early – suited up, boutonniere pinned, and details gathered.
- Keep your space tidy – helps us move faster and makes your photos better.
- Trust the timeline – we’ve built it to flow with minimal chaos.
How to Help Your Bride De-Stress
Want to be her favorite human (even more than usual)? Here are a few simple but powerful things:
- Tell her how stunning she looks
- Help her stay hydrated or sneak her a snack
- Handle little things (like tracking down the rings or rounding up people for photos)
- Be present and patient—it’s contagious, and it’ll calm her energy too
Final Note
You don’t have to know what you’re doing when it comes to photos—that’s what I’m here for. Just show up, be yourself, love your girl, and let’s make some magic.
If you’re a future groom reading this and you want a stress-free, authentic wedding experience that captures real moments, I’d love to be part of your day. Reach out or send this to your bride—she’ll love you for it!
