Grooms, Here’s What You’re Actually Responsible For

A No-Fluff Guide to Getting It Right

Let’s clear the air: wedding planning isn’t just her job. And no, your only role isn’t to “just show up.”

At Scioto Reserve Country Club, we’ve seen grooms go above and beyond—and we’ve also seen a few who thought their work was done after proposing. Spoiler alert: it’s not. But don’t worry—this isn’t a checklist that’ll hijack your weekends or force you to pretend you care about napkin rings.

This is a man-to-man breakdown of what you’re actually responsible for—no fluff, no Pinterest, no panic.

1. Your Suit (And Making Sure Your Guys Look Good Too)

You don’t have to obsess over fabrics, but you do need to lock down what you're wearing—and make sure your groomsmen are in the loop.

• Coordinate with your partner on formality (tux, suit, dress shirt and suspenders?)

• Get measured early (not two weeks before)

• Communicate deadlines to your crew and check in. Yes, you’re the suit wrangler now.

2. Your Groomsmen Lineup

Choosing who stands next to you? That’s all you.

• Pick your guys and ask them early.

• Help them understand their role: show up, be helpful, don’t overdrink too soon.

• Optional: small gifts for the crew (think socks, flasks, golf rounds, or cufflinks).

3. The Music That Sets the Mood

She might choose the first dance song, but you’ve got a say in the playlist.

• Pick your groom/groomsmen entrance song if it’s separate from hers.

• Talk with the DJ/band about "must plays" and "do not plays" (important).

• If there’s a special request or surprise dedication? Own it. People will remember.

4. The Bar Setup (and the Vibe)

You don’t need to be a sommelier, but if you care about what’s being served—speak up.

• Work with your venue or caterer to select bar package tiers, signature drinks, or beer/wine preferences.

• Think about your people: Are they whiskey drinkers? IPA snobs? Margarita fans?

• If there’s a custom cocktail, name it something clever. “The Cold Feet Cooler,” perhaps?

5. Staying on the Timeline

Your only real job on the day-of is to show up on time—and keep your crew on time, too.

• Know when photos start, when the ceremony kicks off, and where you need to be.

• Don’t ghost your planner or photographer—they’re your best friends that day.

• Keep the groomsmen focused. You’re not wrangling toddlers, but... you kind of are.

6. Helping with the Honeymoon

You don’t need to plan every detail, but you should have some skin in the game.

• If she’s handling the wedding, you handle the flights, hotel, or travel logistics.

• Help pick the location if it's not already decided.

• Bonus move: plan one surprise dinner or activity she doesn’t know about. Hero status.

7. Keeping It Together

This one’s not on a checklist, but it matters more than anything.

• Be her anchor. The day will move fast and get emotional—check in with her, be present, and soak it in.

• Bring calm energy. If something goes sideways, she’ll look to you for reassurance.

• Have a tissue ready. For her... or for you. No shame.

Final Thoughts from the Team at Scioto Reserve

You don’t need to plan the whole wedding. But showing up prepared, organized, and thoughtful? That’s a game-changer.

We’ve got your back every step of the way—from helping wrangle the timeline to lining up your whiskey toast at the bar. When you're marrying the love of your life, being ready is one of the most powerful things you can do.

You’ve got this. And if you don’t? We do.