Photo Credit: Scarlett & Stephen
You know what they say: “A wedding is about the couple, but mostly about the bride.” Well, I do and don’t agree with that. The bride gets the pretty dress, does most of the planning (usually) and likely cares a heck of a lot more than the groom about the little details, but a wedding is still a union. No groom? No union. In my opinion, it’s important that our wedding reflects us as a couple and gives my handsome husband some of the spotlight as well!
Here are some ideas on how to do it:
1. Let him stand out. Unless you're asking guests to wear white, spotting the bride in a crowd should be easy. But what about the groom? I love the idea of having the groom wear a different color tux or tie than his groomsmen (pictured above). When Corey and I were looking online at tuxes the other night, I asked, “Are you going to pick out your tux without me, since you’re not seeing my dress ahead of time?” He said, “No, I just figured you would go with me.” And I gladly will be there (I don't want top hats!), but I will let him pick out his attire (minus said top hat).
2. Incorporate food he loves. One aspect many grooms are happy to be involved with: the menu! If you’re getting married at a place that lets you be super involved in choosing your food, include some favorite dishes of your husband-to-be. Consider a groom's cake personalized in a shape from his interests and activities, like a basketball or sneaker.
3. Integrate something he likes into the décor. My centerpieces will include three to four bottles of all shapes and sizes. We are thinking about also including liquor bottles (some are really pretty!) and spray painting them to match our colors. It just so happens that Corey enjoys Crown Royal, so I think he’ll appreciate that bottle being featured at the reception on some tables.
4. How about a cigar bar? Corey likes the occasional cigar. I am not crazy about this, but it’s rare for him, so I accept it. If the budget allows, you can set up a surprise cigar bar at the reception in outdoor space or areas where smoking is allowed. If a whole cigar bar seems like a little much, having his favorite cigar presented to him by a waiter after dinner would also be a nice surprise.
5. Dance to the music! Corey and I are lucky enough to have very similar taste in music, so we’ll likely both enjoy all the songs played at our wedding. But I know for many couples, that’s not always the case. Whether it’s the reception entrance song or the first dance, he’ll appreciate hearing his favorite tunes as well. I think it’d be fun to trick your groom into thinking a certain, stereotypical wedding song will be the first song, but surprise him with an unexpected favorite, instead.
So ladies, what are you doing to make sure your groom’s interests are incorporated into the big day?
—Nikki Stroud
Nikki Stroud is a real bride who is learning every step of the way when it comes to wedding planning. She and her fiancé, Corey Allan (both Ball State alums), will be married in September of 2012 in front of their friends and family in Indianapolis. Glittering ivory lights, exposed plumbing and sleek wood floors depict their romantic yet rustic venue in the Downtown area. The couple hopes to incorporate personal touches to make the celebration truly reflect their relationship.
