Choosing the best man and groomsmen (or honor attendant for women) for your wedding party is a privilege which comes with many responsibilities. Traditionally, only men were chosen as the groomsmen and best man. Nowadays, regardless of gender, grooms are choosing the person best suited for the role. Women are quickly settling in as honor attendants, just as men are being sought after as 'bridesmaids'.

Show Your Appreciation
The people you choose to celebrate this momentous day with you will be called on throughout the planning process and it is important to show your gratitude with meaningful groomsmen gifts. The groomsmen gift will be extra special if it reminds your groomsmen (or honor attendant) of the vital role they played in your wedding day. A framed photo of the wedding party is a memorable groomsmen gift, and tie tacks or pins are groomsman gifts that can be worn on the wedding day and after. The presentation of your groomsmen gifts also makes a statement. A nice luncheon at a sports bar or a BBQ in your own backyard gives you the chance to give out groomsman gifts and personally thank your groomsmen for their help and support (then put everyone to work folding those wedding programs!)

When Choosing, There Are Many Factors to Consider
When getting married, a friend chose a good high-school buddy as his best man. At the wedding ceremony, the best man disappeared and was later found wandering outside in the parking lot when he was needed at the altar. The friend realized the best man was drunk and wanted to kick himself for not thinking harder about his choice. If you agree to accept the honor of best man, groomsman, or honor attendant, do take it seriously. If you are having trouble deciding on whom to ask as your best man, ushers, or attendants, don’t make your choices out of guilt or obligation but think hard about who will adequately fill the shoes.

Although the honor would remain the same, some of the responsibilities, when filled by the non-traditional gender, may be adjusted. Outfit your honor attendants with the appropriate attire. Decide on coordinating gowns and garments that will offset your bridesmaids’ dresses, while coinciding with your overall color scheme and wedding theme. Don’t feel as if your honor attendants’ outfits need to exactly match your bridesmaids. Likewise, your groomsmen’s tuxedos should be smartly styled, but don’t have to be identical. Many wedding colors are chosen around the season or time of year. For example, shades of orange and brown can be used during fall weddings, and so on. Remember, photos will be taken, most likely with natural scenery as a backdrop, and your bridal party colors will make or break the final image.