Best Man Duties Explained

Being asked to be the Best Man is a serious honour, but it also comes with a solid list of responsibilities. From standing by the groom’s side to delivering a speech that’s equal parts heartfelt and funny, Best Man duties are about being reliable, supportive, and ready for anything.

One of the most important tasks? Planning a bucks party that the groom will actually remember. This isn’t just a box to tick—it’s your chance to bring everyone together, set the vibe, and kick off the celebrations in a way that suits him perfectly.

If you’re not sure what’s expected or just want to make sure you’ve covered everything, we’ve pulled together the key Best Man duties to help you nail the role from start to finish.

Best Man duties

Every wedding looks a little different, which is exactly how it should be. Some are big and traditional, others are small and laid-back. But no matter the vibe, being the Best Man means stepping up and supporting the groom in the lead-up to and on the big day.

While some roles might shift depending on the couple’s plans, there are a few classic Best Man duties that tend to show up across the board. Here’s what you’ll likely be responsible for—and how to absolutely nail it.

Support the groom

Being the Best Man starts with showing up for the groom. That means helping out in the lead-up, keeping things calm, and making sure he has what he needs on the day. Sometimes it’s helping pick the suits or making sure the vows aren’t forgotten. Other times, it’s just checking in, handing him a drink, or keeping the mood light when the nerves hit. You don’t have to take over, but you do need to be solid.

Keep the groomsmen in line

Think of yourself as the unofficial team captain. It’s on you to make sure the groomsmen know where to be, what to wear, and when to turn up. Send the reminders, chase the slow replies, and keep everyone moving on the day. Whether it’s getting through photos or lining up for the ceremony, the smoother it runs, the more relaxed the groom will be. No one loves a group chat more than a Best Man with a job to do.

Look after the rings

If there’s no ring bearer, this one’s on you. Keep them safe and close, ideally in an inside jacket pocket you’ll check more than once. It’s simple but important. Losing the rings is the kind of story you never want to be remembered for, so take it seriously. Just remember where you put them and be ready when the celebrant gives you the nod.

Walk with the Maid of Honour

During the ceremony, you’ll usually walk in and out with the Maid of Honour. It might be a quick aisle walk or a longer entrance, depending on how the couple has planned things. Just walk with confidence, smile, and don’t overthink it. It’s a small moment, but it’s part of setting the tone for the ceremony.

Sign the marriage certificate

You’ll likely be one of the official witnesses, which means signing the legal paperwork after the ceremony. The celebrant will guide you through it, so there’s nothing complicated. All you need to do is show up when called and sign your name without scribbling. It’s a quick but meaningful moment that not everyone gets to be part of.

Deliver the speech

This is one of the Best Man duties that gets the most attention. Your job is to make people laugh, say something thoughtful, and keep it appropriate. Share a couple of good stories, compliment the couple, and raise a glass. If you’re nervous, keep it short and honest. Just don’t read it off your phone or push too hard for laughs. People remember the ones that feel genuine more than the ones that try too hard.

Plan the bucks party

Here’s where the fun starts with the Best Man duties. Organising the bucks party is one of the biggest Best Man duties, and probably the one everyone will judge you on. It doesn’t have to be wild, but it does need to suit the groom. Whether that means a weekend away, a brewery tour, or a full-blown party, the planning is up to you. 

That includes picking the activity, sorting the budget, wrangling the group, and making sure the groom has a great time without ending up in the emergency room. Do it right, and you’ll have set the tone for the rest of your role.

An introduction to The Bucks Co.

At The Bucks Co., we believe every groom deserves an unforgettable experience, and we take your Best Man duties seriously. Since 2015, we’ve been dedicated to curating one-of-a-kind bucks parties that create memories you’ll talk about (or not) for years to come.

With over 700 events a year across 15 destinations and 200+ activities, we’ve got the expertise to deliver exactly what you’re after. From the ultimate adrenaline-filled adventures to relaxed days with mates, our expert planners take care of everything, so you can focus on the fun. 

FAQs related to Best Man duties

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about your Best Man duties.

What is the responsibility of the best man?

The best man is there to support the groom before, during, and after the wedding. That usually includes planning the bucks party, giving a speech, and keeping the groom calm on the big day. Best man duties also cover small but important things - like making sure everyone’s where they need to be and having a backup plan for anything that could go sideways.

What am I supposed to do as the best man?

Think of yourself as the groom’s right-hand man. You’ll be helping with the bucks party, organising the groomsmen, and keeping things running smoothly on the wedding day. Best man duties might also include holding onto vows, grabbing last-minute items, or just making sure the groom eats something. Basically, you’re the go-to person for anything he needs.

What is the task of the best man?

At its core, the role is about showing up and having the groom’s back. On the day, your task is to stay one step ahead - whether that’s sorting timing, settling nerves, or delivering a great speech. Best man duties can vary depending on the couple’s plans, but the goal is always the same: help make the day stress-free and memorable.

Who walks down with the best man?

The best man usually walks down the aisle with the maid of honour, but this can change depending on how the couple structures their ceremony. Some walk in solo, others as pairs. Whatever the setup, it’s part of your best man duties to show up on time, walk confidently, and not upstage the groom.

What are the qualities of a best man?

Reliable, organised, supportive, and able to keep things light when needed - that’s the sweet spot. You don’t have to be perfect, but being present and willing to help goes a long way. Good best man duties start with being there for the groom and end with making sure the day runs smoothly.

Does the best man hold the rings?

In most weddings, yes, the best man holds the rings and hands them over during the ceremony. It’s one of the classic best man duties, so keep them safe and don’t be the guy who forgets. Some couples give that job to a ring bearer, but if it’s on you, triple-check your pockets before you head down the aisle.

Best Man duties: Final thoughts

One of the most important of your Best Man duties is throwing a killer bucks party. Did you know that the buck stops here - at The Bucks Co? We make planning an epic bucks party effortless, fun, and completely tailored to your group. Whether you’re after adrenaline-packed adventures, a laid-back day with brews and mates, or something totally out of the box, we’ve got you covered. With over 15 destinations and 200+ activities to choose from, your options are endless.

Our expert planners handle all the details—from group payments to creating a final itinerary. Once all of your other Best Man duties have been taken care of, you can focus on the fun. Ready to plan a celebration the groom will never forget? Let The Bucks Co. make it happen. Reach out to the friendly team and get started today!