Wedding planning conversations usually revolve around the bride’s endless to-do lists, but let’s be honest—grooms have their own prep work that goes way beyond picking a tux.
Most guys think showing up is half the battle, but there’s a whole world of preparation that can make or break your big day experience.
1. Getting Your Skin Wedding-Ready
Your face will be photographed more on your wedding day than probably any other day of your life. Yet most men roll out of bed using the same bar soap they’ve had since college and call it skincare.
Start a basic routine at least three months before the wedding. Cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen aren’t just for your future wife—they’re for looking like the best version of yourself when you’re standing at that altar.
Book a professional facial about two weeks before the wedding, not the day before. Your skin might react poorly to new treatments, and wedding day breakouts are nobody’s friend.
2. Dental Work That Actually Matters
Brushing your teeth the morning of your wedding isn’t going to undo years of coffee stains and neglect. Your smile will be front and center in every photo, and professional whitening takes time to work properly.
Schedule a dental cleaning and whitening consultation at least two months out. Some treatments require multiple sessions, and you don’t want to be dealing with sensitive teeth during your honeymoon.
Consider this an investment in every photo you’ll look at for the rest of your marriage. Future you will thank present you when you’re not cringing at your wedding album.
3. The Haircut Timeline Nobody Talks About
Getting your haircut the day before your wedding is amateur hour. You need time to live with the cut, make adjustments, and let it settle into something that actually looks natural.
Book your wedding haircut two weeks before the big day. This gives you enough time for a quick trim if needed, but ensures you’re not walking down the aisle looking like you just stepped out of a barbershop.
Bring photos of your desired look to your barber or stylist. Don’t assume they know what “just clean it up” means—that phrase has ruined more wedding photos than you’d think.
4. Fitness Planning Beyond the Panic Phase
Crash diets and sudden gym obsessions two weeks before your wedding will leave you looking gaunt and exhausted. Real fitness results take months, not miracles.
Start a realistic workout routine at least four months before your wedding. Focus on consistency over intensity—you want to look healthy and confident, not like you’ve been living on protein powder and desperation.
Consider hiring a trainer for a few sessions to create a sustainable plan. The goal isn’t to become a fitness model; it’s to feel strong and comfortable in your own skin when all eyes are on you.
5. Wedding Ring Sizing Reality Check
Most men have never worn a ring in their lives, then expect to nail the sizing on their first try. Ring sizing isn’t just about squeezing it over your knuckle—it needs to feel comfortable for daily wear.
Get professionally sized at least two months before you need the ring. Your fingers change size throughout the day and with temperature changes, so try on rings at different times.
Consider the width of your wedding band when sizing. Wider bands feel tighter than thin ones, even in the same size. Don’t guess on this one—it’s literally something you’ll wear every day for the rest of your life.
6. Speech Preparation That Goes Beyond Winging It
Standing up in front of everyone you know and trying to be eloquent while emotional is harder than it looks. Even if you’re naturally comfortable speaking, wedding speeches hit different when it’s your own wedding.
Write your speech at least a month in advance, then practice it out loud. Reading silently and speaking aloud are completely different experiences, and you’ll discover awkward phrasing and tongue twisters when you actually say the words.
Time your speech and aim for two to three minutes maximum. Anything longer and you’ll lose your audience, anything shorter and it might feel rushed. Practice until you can deliver it conversationally, not like you’re reciting a grocery list.
7. Groomsmen Communication That Actually Works
Assuming your groomsmen will figure everything out on their own is a recipe for wedding day chaos. These are your friends, not mind readers, and they need clear direction about expectations and timing.
Send detailed information about attire, timing, and responsibilities at least six weeks before the wedding. Include specific brand names, color codes, and where to purchase or rent items.
Create a group chat or email chain specifically for wedding coordination. Share the timeline, venue addresses, and your contact information. Your wedding coordinator is great, but your groomsmen shouldn’t have to hunt down basic information.
8. Bachelor Party Planning Logistics
Throwing together a last-minute bachelor party usually results in either a boring night out or complete chaos. Good bachelor parties require actual planning, especially if travel is involved.
Start planning at least three months in advance if you want to go anywhere other than your local bar. Popular destinations book up quickly, and coordinating multiple schedules takes time.
Be clear about budget expectations upfront. Not everyone can afford a weekend in Vegas, and financial stress kills the fun faster than anything else. Plan something that works for your group’s actual circumstances, not your Instagram fantasies.
9. Wedding Day Emergency Kit Assembly
Murphy’s Law applies especially to weddings—whatever can go wrong probably will. A well-stocked emergency kit can save your day and your sanity.
Pack basics like breath mints, deodorant, stain remover, safety pins, and pain relievers. Include items specific to your situation: contact solution if you wear contacts, allergy medication if you’re prone to reactions.
Designate someone reliable to carry your emergency kit and know where it is. Your best man or a groomsman should be your point person for quick fixes throughout the day.
10. Financial Reality Check and Planning
Weddings cost more than you think they will, and that’s before you factor in the honeymoon, new living expenses, and starting married life. Financial stress can overshadow what should be the happiest time of your life.
Create a realistic budget that includes a 15-20% buffer for unexpected expenses. Every couple goes over budget somewhere—it’s better to plan for it than be blindsided.
Have honest conversations about money with your partner before the wedding. Discuss how you’ll handle finances as a married couple, including debt, savings goals, and spending habits.
11. Mental and Emotional Preparation
Wedding days are emotionally intense, even for guys who don’t consider themselves particularly emotional. The combination of being the center of attention, making a major life commitment, and family dynamics can be overwhelming.
Take time to process what marriage means to you personally. This isn’t just a big party—you’re making a commitment that will change your life in fundamental ways.
Consider talking to married friends or family members about their experiences. Sometimes hearing how others navigated the transition to married life can help you feel more prepared for your own journey.
The Bottom Line on Groom Prep
Wedding preparation isn’t just about looking good in photos—though that’s certainly part of it. It’s about showing up as the best version of yourself for one of the most important days of your life.
Start early, be realistic about timelines, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your future spouse isn’t the only one who deserves to feel prepared and confident on your wedding day.