Another element is that, finally, grooms are starting
to be more involved in their weddings and the activities
that revolve around them. This is a terrific trend
that has many in the industry applauding, while many
others are baffled by what to suggest to the men
who want to do something unique.
As with all elements of a wedding, listening is
key. Seek a caterer or event planner who is willing
to discuss options and make appropriate suggestions.
I, for one, have found that brides will be thankful
that their groom is involved in some part of the
event. It takes some of the focus away from the bride
for an afternoon or evening, and gives her time to
relax while her future partner enjoys some creative
activity with the boys.
Think
Creatively. Give yourself credit. Some
of the best ideas for the men involved in a wedding
have come from the men themselves. Look for an
event planner who wants to hear your opinions and
thoughts. If you do not know what to suggest, your
caterer and/or event planner should be able to
drag some info out of you and your wedding party
to get them brainstorming.
For example, I had a groom who loved football and
suggested a touch football game the day prior to
his wedding. The idea was to do the game in a stadium
for friends and family — guys only.
Finding a stadium proved to be tough, but not impossible.
There are many local football fields that can be
rented for the day, and that is exactly what we did.
On game day, we greeted the teams at their private
field with T-shirts that were a nod to the couple-to-be
with numbers on the front and back and the couples’ picture
on the sleeves. We also had an announcer for the
play-by-play, and there were plenty of burgers after
the game. Transportation was another plus that enhanced
the event — the shared bus ride gave the group
a chance to meet one another. It was a great success!
Another groom wanted to honor his father (a wine
maker) by organizing a tour of wine country in Virginia.
It was an opportunity to drive to a quiet part of
the countryside, learn about the Virginia wine industry,
and to have a sophisticated afternoon of drink! As
you can imagine, the toasts came naturally and frequently
throughout the day. The organizer of the tour, A
La Carte Catering, did a terrific job of integrating
topics of interest with the specific client in mind.
Without question, one of the finest activities is
the tried and true golf outing. It is not just for
golfers, but anyone who loves the outdoors. In an
attempt to be creative, I select courses that are
far enough away that even locals may not be “regulars,” but
that are unique and top-notch.
One of the best is Westfield Golf Course near Chantilly.
This course also is very near the new Steven F. Udvar-Hazy
Center, an annex of the National Air & Space
Museum. Located next to Dulles International Airport
(about a 40-minute bus ride from downtown DC), the
Udvar-Hazy Center is an exciting and historic spot
for your guests to explore and enjoy the wonders
and history of air and space travel. Guests can choose
an afternoon of golf or flight!
In summary, look for an event coordinator who understands the importance of
having everyone participate in the wedding creatively. By doing something that
is special for the “guys,” your event will reflect that you do
care about all participants.
And, remember guys (like girls) just want to have fun…too!
