"He's the Star Too!! A Complete Guide to Spotlighting the Groom in Weddings and Receptions"
2019.07.04 published
I want to create moments for him at the wedding and reception!
The wedding is a celebration of the couple's marriage, and naturally, the stars are the bride and groom.
However, there is a lingering perception that "the wedding belongs to the bride."
Of course, the time and passion invested in wedding preparations are important, but it seems that on the wedding day, the spotlight tends to shine more on the bride.
Even the groom himself might secretly think, "She's the main character after all."
Since it's both of their wedding, I want him to have plenty of moments to shine and to enjoy the wedding preparations even more.
I want him to look forward to the wedding.
On the day, I want all the guests to think, "What a wonderful husband!"
Incorporating Groom-Centered Performances ♡
For brides who share this sentiment, I recommend actively incorporating performances that put the groom in the spotlight.
If he has moments to shine, he will look forward to the wedding even more, and his sense of involvement will naturally grow.
In this article, I will introduce performances featuring the groom, from the classic to the unique.
If you introduce them by saying, "The guests on the groom's side will love it!" they might become interested too ♡
Let's take a look at the various performances right away*
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ① Jacket Ceremony
First, let's introduce a performance during the ceremony. This is the 'Jacket Ceremony,' which corresponds to the bride's 'Veil Down' moment ♡
The Jacket Ceremony involves the groom being dressed in his tuxedo jacket by his father (or mother or sibling, of course) before he begins to walk down the aisle.
It’s wonderful that the groom has his "final preparations." After being helped by his father, it’s also lovely if his mother pins the boutonniere on him (though the meaning is different).
This performance is likely to be appreciated not just by the groom but also by his family.
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ② Dozen Roses Ceremony
A popular performance at civil ceremonies, the Dozen Roses Ceremony originated in Europe.
This involves the groom entering the chapel and receiving 12 roses from guests, which he later hands over to the bride as she enters ♡
While collecting roses from guests in the chapel before the bride arrives, the groom draws everyone's attention for a while.
The moment he hands the bouquet to the bride feels just like a proposal, making this a romantic performance where the groom takes center stage.
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ③ Broccoli Toss
Next, we have the Broccoli Toss, which corresponds to the bride's Bouquet Toss.
In this performance, the groom throws broccoli to the male guests. This is said to be a common performance overseas ♡
Broccoli symbolizes "prosperity," making this a ceremony with a notable origin.
Guests who catch the broccoli can share a memorable story with the groom or receive a gift of mayonnaise, adding an interesting twist to the performance.
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ④ ★Pulls
If the bride does a bouquet toss, it’s recommended for the groom to do a ★Pulls as well ♡
A good choice would be something universally appreciated and stylish, like wine ♡
Additionally, think together about something related to the groom's hobbies that the male guests would enjoy. ♩
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑤ ★Toss
If the groom has played a sport, how about using that ball for a ★Toss?
This can involve soccer, baseball, basketball, or volleyball. It would really hype up the atmosphere if many guests are former teammates!
Instead of just handing out the ball, it’s a good idea to have a prize ready for the guests who catch it.
Now let’s introduce some performances for the reception!*
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑥ Welcome Speech
From here, let's introduce the moments during the reception that will shine a spotlight on the groom.
The first moment is the welcome speech, where he thanks guests for coming, reports that the ceremony has concluded successfully, and wraps up with comments for the reception.*
It's an important initial performance for the reception, and it's a scene where he should deliver it impressively ♡
Many grooms find themselves hurriedly thinking of this on the morning of the wedding, but encourage him to prepare and practice early, reminding him that it's an important moment!
(Don't forget about preparing for the speech at the after-party as well! ♡)
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑦ Champagne Sabering
Champagne Sabering involves cutting the top off a champagne bottle with a saber, which is a type of demonstration often seen at restaurants or wine events ♡
The groom opens the champagne for the toast in front of the guests.
Most guests will likely see this for the first time, ensuring an energetic atmosphere.
(However, it seems that practice is necessary to pull it off successfully…!)
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑧ Groom's Exit
Next, we have the scene of the groom's exit. A clever exit method will amp up the excitement ♡
If he asks friends to escort him, making it lively with a mikoshi (portable shrine) or shoulder ride is great ♡
If asking family or mentors, they can share a brief story or memory about the groom.
This will create a lovely scene that reveals the groom's true self.
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑨ Groom's Letter
The groom's letter is a performance that often receives warm responses from his family and guests, just as the bride's letter does.
It's unlikely that men can usually express their feelings honestly to their parents. The reception offers a rare opportunity for him to convey gratitude to his family once again.
Reading it right before or after the bride's letter, which takes place at the end of the reception, can lead to letter fatigue, so reading it at the timing of the exit is recommended.
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑩ Best Suit Color Quiz
After the exit, a fun way to engage guests is with a Best Suit Color Quiz, similar to how guests guess the color of the bride's dress!
Instead, guests can guess the color of the groom's vest (or tuxedo). ♡
Having the groom and bride enter separately enhances the interest in both of them.*
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑪ Surprise Entrance
If the groom is not changing outfits, it’s advisable to think of creative ways to enter ♡
If he appears unexpectedly from a location, it will definitely surprise the guests.
Entering while dancing with the groomsmen would be wonderful too! ♡
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑫ Participation in Entertainment
It seems that grooms frequently participate in entertainment! ♡ Although there were concerns about having few moments to shine, it often turns out that they play a big role in the entertainment! Many rehearse without the bride knowing, which can lead to surprising moments on the day ♩
If you notice the groom sneaking around during the wedding preparations, it might be best to pretend you didn’t see anything ♡
Coming out in a chef outfit during table rounds or buffets is also recommended.
His appearance serving guests in a chef's outfit will surely attract attention.
The bride can wear a cute bride's apron too! ♡
Groom-Centered Wedding and Reception Performance ⑭ Surprise for the Bride
As the reception nears its end, the groom's big moment comes with a surprise for the bride.
☑ Surprise public proposal
☑ Message video
☑ Reading of a letter
☑ Gift of a song or performance
The content can vary ♡ It will be a moment where everyone in the venue quietly cheers for the groom.
Since surprises aren’t something that should be forced, it will depend on what the groom decides, but it might be good to subtly mention that "it’s a dream to be surprised at the reception!" well in advance.*