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The Ultimate Guide to Having a Bridesman

August 25, 2023 | justine

This guide has everything you need to have a bridesman in your wedding party. Image by Memorybox Photography.

Wedding traditions are always changing, giving couples the chance to add their own special touches to every part of their celebration—even who’s in the wedding party. Traditional gender roles are becoming more flexible allowing for mixed-gender wedding parties that celebrate unique connections. With the rise of bridesmen and groomswomen, more couples are embracing this change and showing that your loved ones deserve to be standing at your side on your big day, regardless of their gender.

And that’s where Junebug comes in. We’re here to help you navigate the journey of having a bridesman in your wedding. From choosing the right person to making sure he fits in seamlessly with the rest of your bridal party, this guide has everything you need to make this unique choice a meaningful part of your special day. 

Image by Teri B. See more of this real wedding right here.

FAQs About Having a Bridesman

What Is a Bridesman?

So, what’s a bridesman, anyway? Well, simply put, it’s the awesome guy you choose to stand by your side as a male bridesmaid during your wedding day. Like a bridesmaid, a bridesman supports you, cheers you on, and helps make your wedding dreams come true.

How To Pick a Bridesman?

Selecting the perfect bridesman is about choosing someone who knows you deeply, supports your journey, and shares your excitement. It’s about finding a confidant who aligns with your values and vision, someone who’s willing to go the extra mile, make you feel comfortable, and adapt to the wedding’s dynamic moments. Whether it’s a sibling, friend, or even a close family member, choosing someone whose company brings joy to your special day is key.

What Attire is Suitable for a Bridesman?

Let’s talk fashion! Your bridesman’s outfit can be as unique as the role itself. Whether it’s a dapper suit that complements your wedding color scheme or a snazzy outfit that highlights his personality, the choice is yours. It’s crucial to ensure that your bridesman feels comfortable and confident in what he’s wearing.

Image by Mary Costa Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

Bridesman Duties: Being Your Support System Every Step of the Way

Trusted Advisor Before The Wedding

Your bridesman can be an invaluable resource during the wedding planning process. From brainstorming ideas to tackling DIY projects, his input and assistance can help alleviate some pre-wedding jitters. Who better to give honest opinions on floral arrangements and wedding cake?

Coordinate Pre-Wedding Events

Your bridesman can help organize and coordinate pre-wedding events, ensuring everyone is on the same page and that everything runs smoothly. Whether it’s the rehearsal dinner, pre-wedding party, or other gatherings, his involvement will add an extra layer of organization and enjoyment to the lead-up of your big day.

Right-Hand Man on the Big Day

Your bridesman can be the go-to person for managing any unexpected issues or last-minute tasks that arise on the big day. Whether it’s coordinating vendors, ensuring everyone is in the right place, or handling any hiccups, his reliable presence can help ensure a smooth and stress-free wedding experience.

Be Present for Photo Ops

Ensure your bridesman is front and center in photo opportunities. Keep him in the loop with your wedding timeline to ensure he’s present for important moments, avoiding any last-minute errands that could cause him to miss out on these cherished memories.

Getting Ready with the Crew

Why should bridesmaids have all the fun? From getting ready together to sharing laughter and nervous excitement—invite your bridesman to join in the pre-wedding festivities.

Standing on the Bride’s Side

Traditionally, bridesmaids stand on the bride’s side, but your bridesman is breaking those norms, and that’s something to celebrate. His presence by your side adds a modern twist to tradition, symbolizing friendship and unity that knows no gender boundaries.

Showcasing Talents and Contributions

Each person in your wedding party brings their own strengths and talents to the table. Let your bridesman shine by utilizing his skills. Whether it’s organizing a killer dance routine or creating a hilarious slideshow for the reception, let him contribute in ways that are meaningful to both of you.

Heartfelt Speech and Toast

Your bridesman can deliver a touching speech or heartfelt toast during your reception, adding a personal touch that reflects your shared memories, inside jokes, and the unwavering support he’s provided throughout your journey. It’s a chance for him to celebrate your bond in front of your loved ones, making the moment even more special.

Dance Partner Extraordinaire

Enlist your bridesman’s charm to mingle with guests and kick-start the dance floor extravaganza during the reception. His infectious enthusiasm will set the tone for an evening of carefree celebration, where everyone can let loose and groove to the music.

Continual Support After The Wedding

The celebrations don’t end when the confetti settles. Your bridesman can continue to support you as you transition into married life. From post-wedding brunches to heartfelt conversations, he’s there to share in your joys and help you navigate any challenges that come your way.

Image by Teri B. See more of this multi-cultural celebration here.

Important Tips for a Smooth Bridesman Experience

Create Lots of Opportunities for Bonding

Since your bridesman might not know your bridesmaids beforehand, plan events that allow everyone to get to know each other. Pre-wedding parties, movie nights, and even group chats can help break the ice and build strong connections.

Treat Everyone Equally—Even for the Bach Parties

Bachelorette parties and bachelor parties can be equally epic. Plan joint celebrations catering to all preferences, ensuring no one feels left out. This is a chance to blend traditions and create unique and memorable experiences that everyone in your group can enjoy.

Inclusive Gift Choices

When it comes to gifts for your wedding party, opt for items that are inclusive and suitable for everyone. Think personalized keepsakes, spa days, or even thoughtful handwritten notes. It’s the sentiment that counts.

Embrace the Unexpected

Weddings are full of surprises, and having a bridesman is one surprise that’ll have everyone talking. Embrace the raised eyebrows and amazed looks. Your choice to have a bridesman reflects your unique love story and commitment to doing things your way.

Communication is Key

Keep an open line of communication with your bridesman throughout the planning process. Make sure he feels comfortable expressing his thoughts and ideas, and encourage him to actively participate in discussions. This will ensure a harmonious and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

In a world where wedding traditions are evolving, having a bridesman is a bold and beautiful choice that speaks volumes about your relationship and commitment to embracing change. So, when planning your dream wedding, think outside the box, and include your amazing bridesman in every step of the journey. And let love and friendship take center stage.

Now that you’re armed with the ultimate guide to having a bridesman, why stop here? Take your wedding celebrations to the next level with joint bachelor-bachelorette parties that bring everyone together for an unforgettable adventure. Explore exciting party destinations, unconventional themes, and ideas that’ll make your pre-wedding festivities exciting and unforgettable.

Image by Memorybox Photography. See more of this real wedding right here.

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Epic Las Vegas Destination Elopement at The Little White Chapel

August 24, 2023 | justine

Molly and Adam had always held a special place in their hearts for the allure of Las Vegas. In fact, it was right there at the very top of their must-see destinations. Let’s be honest, who can resist the glitz and glamor that this city has to offer? But the cherry on top of their Vegas dreams was an unforgettable Las Vegas destination elopement. Picture this: a celebration just for two, in the spotlight of the iconic Little White Chapel, exchanging vows inside none other than Elvis’ legendary pink Cadillac. Now that’s what we call a rock ‘n’ roll wedding!

They kicked the day off with a dip in the rooftop pool, soaking in stunning views of the bustling strip below. Once they were ready, a fancy limo took them to the chapel. The sun was setting as they tied the knot on the pink Cadillac. After the drive-through ceremony, their adventure took them to the iconic Las Vegas sign, where they immortalized their big day with portraits. Returning to their hotel room, they indulged in a heart-shaped cake, savoring every bite, all while basking in the day’s happiness.

 These lovebirds didn’t overlook a single detail, making sure everything aligned perfectly with the classic Vegas vibe they were after. It was an intimate affair, just the two of them, but their intention was to ensure their loved ones back home could share in their joy. And thankfully, Erin Roberts was there to capture every single moment. If your wedding style is out-of-the-box unconventional, you definitely don’t want to miss out on this elopement. Keep on scrolling to delve into their remarkable journey and find some inspiration of your own.

The Couple:

Molly and Adam

The Wedding:

The Little White Chapel, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

How Their Las Vegas Destination Elopement Came To Be

We simply booked our holiday to Las Vegas. We added on a package at the Little White Chapel but came at it from the mindset that we were booking a pre-planned holiday excursion, which was the best excursion ever! We had no budget as we were going on holiday. We weren’t saying “no” to anything or making second guesses and would think about any consequences later.

The Reason They Tied The Knot at The Little White Chapel

We chose The Little White Chapel because of its history and is one of the most famous chapels in the world. As we are from the UK, it was the only place we would have chosen in Vegas. There were many options, but the iconic pink Cadillac ticked our box for style. What more could you ask of Las Vegas? Pink is also my favorite color.

Embracing Vegas Vibes with Fashion-Forward Bridal Attire 

Molly: My attire blended modern elegance and classic showgirl charm. My short dress was adorned with sequins and feathers, and the two-tiered veil carried a personalized touch with ‘Viva Las Vegas’ written at the bottom. Christian Louboutin sparkling shoes added a touch of glam, matching my red bouquet of feathers and pearl-encrusted roses. Red Ace of Hearts on my nails (the “A” representing Adam) and a “10k dollar bill” clutch brought playful details, while a cherished heirloom ring held sentimental value. Paying homage to old Hollywood glam, I later switched into a tight diamante-covered white dress paired with diamond-studded cowboy boots featuring eagle motifs, capturing the desert essence of Vegas. Heart-shaped sunglasses sealed the look.

Channeling Classic Groom Elegance for Las Vegas Destination Elopement 

Adam: I opted for a suave deep black tuxedo with satin lapels, drawing inspiration from vintage Hollywood charm. My silver and diamante embellished dice cufflinks added pizzazz to the suit. A double-breasted black waistcoat for elegance, while black rhinestone-covered shoes added character to my soles. The satin black bow tie exuded sophistication, and I embraced an Elvis-style with gold aviators, a nod to the King himself (picked up from a souvenir shop). To add a personal touch, I wore deep red socks for a subtle pop of color.

Embracing Authenticity: Creating Their Own Path in Vegas

Our wedding day is and will always be one of our most unforgettable memories. The whole day was special because it was so easygoing and stress-free. We started the morning by the rooftop pool at the Cosmopolitan, enjoying the fantastic view of the nearby strip, sipping cocktails, and having some fast food. We sunbathed, took a refreshing swim, and then returned to our room to prepare. Our photographer took natural photos before we hopped into a champagne-filled limo to head to The Little White Chapel. The sun was setting when we exchanged our vows, and we got a fantastic picture at the famous Las Vegas sign in perfect lighting. We felt fantastic walking through the casino, sipping martinis, and feeling like a million dollars. Remember, your wedding day is all about what you want, and you don’t need to worry about other people’s opinions or traditions. It’s your special day, so make it yours.

More Than Just Photos: Building Bonds Beyond the Lens

We booked Erin Roberts almost two years ahead, and throughout this time, she shared her wealth of knowledge about Vegas—from cake makers to floral artists. She was more than a photographer; she became a pen pal and a dear friend, a bond that’s now profoundly cherished. This connection is truly reflected in our photos. It was as if she truly understood us, and there was no way I could find fault with her work. She made us feel completely at ease, going the extra mile by taking care of my bouquet and delivering it to our hotel! Being a part of her gallery is a genuine honor that I treasure.

Sharing Their Special Day With Friends and Family Through Photographs

What truly stands out to us is how our photographer skillfully captured the very essence of our unique day. Our primary focus was to convey raw emotion and let our genuine selves radiate, especially since our dear friends and family couldn’t be there. A couple of snapshots hold exceptionally precious memories. One by the Las Vegas sign features me flashing a peace sign while Adam enjoys a bottle of champagne. Another favorite is us strolling away from Elvis’ car, my bouquet held high, and both beaming joyfully. These images are part of my “Sneak Peek” album, where our happiness and personalities genuinely shine. These moments, captured so perfectly, felt like the ultimate snapshots of our Vegas wedding. These cherished photos would be shared with everyone back home, amplifying their significance. Moreover, we take immense pride in how seamlessly our styles blended, culminating in an unforgettable and distinctly memorable aesthetic.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Erin Roberts
Ceremony Venue – The Little White Chapel
Floral Design – Valen Ibarra
Cake – Marys Cakes Las Vegas
Wedding Dress – Nadine Merabi + House of Maguie
Bridal Accessories – Christian Louboutin + The Wedding Veil Shop
Groom’s Apparel – Ted Baker Tux + Moss Bro Waistcoat
Rings – HM Samuels

 

Congratulations to Molly and Adam on their Las Vegas destination elopement at The Little White Chapel. And a big thank you to Erin Roberts for capturing every moment of their epic day reminding us how important it is to do your wedding your way. 

Rather than conforming to traditional norms, their choice to focus on what mattered most to them resulted in a stress-free and authentically enjoyable celebration. If you’re all set to kickstart the planning for your incredible and one-of-a-kind celebration for two, don’t forget to take a look at our elopement planning checklist!

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A City Rooftop Meets Nature In This Fairmont Pacific Rim Wedding

August 23, 2023 | justine

Miri and Pepe–originally from Mexico–instantly fell in love with Vancouver. It felt so perfect to share this special place, now their home, with friends and family. Bringing together their beloved group of around 30 from all corners of the globe, it was a heartwarming reunion after the long separation due to the pandemic. Choosing a Fairmont Pacific Rim wedding, their celebration flawlessly merged a rooftop-meets-nature atmosphere. Think soft colors, elegant yet simple details, and an ambiance that made everyone feel incredibly welcome. 

The couple described their suite as a “Balinese Villa dream,” and it sure was! With views of the harbor and the North Shore Mountains, the rooftop patio was the picturesque setting for their vow exchange, followed by a meaningful cacao ceremony. With a relaxed schedule, they had all the time in the world to savor the rest of the day. They kicked back, sipped on signature cocktails, and cozied up in stylish lounges, all while treating their guests to live music and a portrait session that ensured their friends and family could take home meaningful memories of the special day.

The celebration was all about family togetherness, without rigid traditions, and an adorable dog that brought even more joy to their big day. And thankfully, Junebug member Nomad by NK was there to capture every moment beautifully. If your and your partner’s wedding vibe is modern, laid-back, and chic, then this rooftop soiree is for you. 

The Couple:

Miri and Pepe

The Wedding:

Fairmont Pacific Rim, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Infusing Depth and Meaning into Their Wedding With a Cacao Ceremony

Here’s something unique and meaningful that we incorporated into our wedding: a cacao ceremony. Back in ancient Aztec culture, cacao was a big deal. It was considered the Emperor’s drink and had spiritual and ceremonial significance. It was a way to connect with our inner selves and set positive intentions for the future. So, we decided to bring this tradition into our wedding by exchanging a cacao drink. It was a moment of deep connection and gratitude, where we celebrated our love and our journey together. Now, we’ve decided to make it our own little tradition. Every year, we’ll share a cacao drink to reconnect, express gratitude, and set positive vibes for the future.

Memorable Surprises: a Dog’s Dive and Tokens of Love

Our furry friend stole the show on our wedding day. Our dog couldn’t contain his excitement and decided to take an impromptu dive into the artificial pond at the venue. It was a hilarious surprise that had everyone cracking up. But that’s not the only surprise we had. My traditional Catholic mom surprised us with 13 shiny silver coins called “arras.” They’re said to bring prosperity to the couple. It was such a sweet and meaningful gesture that warmed our hearts.

Wedding Planning Advice: Your Day, Your Way

When it comes to your special day, remember that there are no rigid rules set in stone. Embrace the freedom to celebrate in a manner that resonates with the essence of your unique relationship. Don’t feel obligated to conform to societal expectations or follow prescribed conventions. Instead, dare to pave your own path and create a wedding experience that authentically reflects your love story. For us, the key to wedding planning was enjoying the process and staying true to ourselves. We wanted our celebration to be a genuine reflection of our relationship and values. No stress, just pure joy in creating an event that felt uniquely us.

How They Created Their Fairmont Pacific Rim Wedding Budget

We sat down and hammered out our budget, leaving every detail accounted for. As a self-proclaimed organizational wizard, I created a spreadsheet that covered everything. Our biggest tip? Don’t get caught up in the allure of Pinterest weddings—they can be pricey. Instead, sit down with your partner and list your priorities. Spend your money on what truly matters to you both and skip the rest. One thing that surprised us was the cost of flowers. In Mexico, they’re affordable all year, but in Canada, they can be pretty pricey due to the weather and availability. Lesson learned!

Putting Their Hearts Into Their Fairmont Pacific Rim Wedding with DIY Touches

We rolled up our sleeves and went DIY mode for our welcome sign, website, and invitations. Canva came to the rescue for the sign, where we designed it ourselves, printed it out, and hung it on a floor lamp stand. As for the invites, we went digital with Paperless Post, and Itook charge of the design. To infuse a nostalgic vibe, we incorporated archive images of Vancouver from the 1960s and 1970s, paying homage to the city’s vibrant past.

How They Navigated Videography on a Budget

To stay within our budget, we made the tough call to skip hiring a videographer, despite our film industry background. Instead, we got creative. Our fantastic wedding photographers took charge and captured the day beautifully. Plus, one of our filmmaker friends filmed everything on Super 8mm with one of my old cameras. Our splurges? We couldn’t resist booking the talented portrait photographer Dennis Gocer from The Collective You and indulging in mouthwatering food. We have no regrets whatsoever.

Elevating the Guest Experience with Portraits

As wedding guests, we’ve always been disappointed with the lack of decent photos of us on such special occasions. Despite trying to look our best, we often end up photobombing a couple of pictures of the happy couple without any great shots of ourselves. So, being the photography enthusiasts that we are, we decided to do something about it. We had the incredible Dennis Gocer from The Collective You take portraits of all our guests. It was our way of saying, “Hey, we see you, and we want you to have a beautiful picture of yourself from this special day.” And you know what? We’ve spotted those portraits proudly displayed in our friends and family’s homes and even on their Instagram profile pictures. It’s such a wonderful feeling to know that we’ve given them a lasting memory they can cherish.

How Their  Fairmont Pacific Rim Wedding Came to be

2020 threw us a curveball with our wedding plans due to COVID. We had not one but two venue changes. With travel restrictions in place, we shifted gears and found ourselves in Vancouver, where we stumbled upon the most jaw-dropping spot at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. The Chairman’s Suite, aka the “Rock Star Suite,” was like stepping into a Balinese villa dream. It wasn’t just our venue. It was also our swanky suite for the night. The outdoor patio stole the show as the actual wedding spot. We’re originally from Mexico but fell head over heels for Vancouver. So, it felt only right to bring our friends and family to this special place we now call home. The rooftop patio brought us incredible views of the city, Coal Harbour, and those majestic North Shore Mountains. It was the epitome of everything we adore about BC.

Adding Personality to the Festivities with Custom Signature Drinks 

We had a blast working with the mixology expert at the Fairmont to create custom drinks for us. We whipped up a spicy and refreshing mezcal cocktail for my drink that screamed summer vibes. And for the groom, we crafted a colorful and sweet vodka-based concoction that perfectly matched his personality. These drinks were a fun and tasty reflection of who we are as a couple, adding an extra touch of uniqueness to our celebration.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Nomad by NK
Event Planning – Samantha Nicholas
Venue + Catering – Fairmont Pacific Rim
Floral Design – Blackcomb Flowers
Officiant – Antje Cavanagh
Live Music – Musos Entertainment
Videography – Davy Giorgi
Invitation Design – Paperless Post
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Nina Farrauto
Wedding Dress – Bo & Luca from Rituals of Love
Bridal Accessories – Tiffany & Co
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rings – David Yurman
Rentals – Bespoke Decor
Favors – The Collective You

 

Congratulations to Miri and Pepe on their city rooftop meets nature Fairmont Pacific Rim wedding. And a special thank you to Junebug member Nomad by NK for capturing all the special moments and unique details that made this celebration unforgettable. To see more of their amazing work, take a look at their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Embracing creativity at every turn—from the distinct venue and laid-back timeline to the DIY touches and custom drinks—this couple ensured their day genuinely represented who they are. If you’re looking to infuse your own uniqueness into your special day, make sure to explore our guide for helpful tips and inspiration. Your wedding should be as uniquely you as Miri and Pepe’s were for them.

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