Getting the Groom Involved

Mark and I were meeting with a couple recently and I found myself several times saying. "It's the bride choice". Mark laughed and said to the groom, “Believe it or not this is your wedding, too.” Point well taken!

Wedding planning is massive and it is surprising how many decisions need to be made soon after he pop’s the question. Let’s face it, men have not been "dreaming" about their wedding since childhool. But he did pick out that ring on your left hand. Think about that ladies… He selected you and stunning bling. He can make great choices.

1. Start slowly.

The best thing you can do is tell your fiancé that he's about to throw one of the biggest parties of his life. While it's more upscale than his "red solo cup" parties he threw in the past, you want your wedding to be fun and memorable. He'll help you with that!

2. Skip some of the details.

Skip details like colors, centerpieces, and what flowers to use. Start with things guys are interested in like music, entertainment, food & alcohol, and the photographer.

3. Give him tasks.

Give him the task of finding a signature cocktail for the wedding. While everyone drank and enjoyed the trash can punch at his parties, he'll know that he's got to find something more sophisticated. Have him start researching DJ’s or listening to band audio clips. If he loves beer or wine, ask him to make the selections.

4. Take him to visit with prospective vendors.

We love when the groom takes part of the photography decision making. We will work very closely with both the bride and the groom on the wedding day. He needs to be comfortable with your photographers. But remember, wedding planning is not natural for most guys. So, don't ask them to go with you for an entire day. Reward him with a lunch break and beer. Remember how happy you are when football or hunting season is over? Don't make him feel this way about wedding planning!

5. Don't shoot down his ideas.

If you shoot down his ideas, suggestions and wishes... he will shut down. He wants pies and Amy's ice cream instead of a groom’s cake. Sound pretty creative and yummy to me... Compromise.

6. Give him permission to add his own flair.

You chose watermelon and lilac for the colors. Not the manliest colors. He may suggest some argyle pink and purple socks. Go with it. They will make a really cute picture.