Groom & Bride Essentials: Your Go‑To Wedding Guide

Planning a wedding can feel like juggling a million details, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Below you’ll find the most useful advice for both the groom and the bride, pulled from our top articles. Grab a cup of tea and read on – these tips will save you time, money, and stress.

What Every Groom Should Know

First up, the guy’s side of the big day. From choosing a tie or bowtie to handling the night before the wedding, there are a few non‑negotiables. If you’re stuck on whether to wear a tie or a bowtie, think about the vibe of your venue and your own style – a classic tie works for formal settings, while a bowtie adds a dash of personality. Also, the night before the wedding isn’t just for the best man to plan a prank. It’s a chance to relax, confirm final details, and get a good night’s sleep. Keep the guest list in check by knowing who should stay with you – usually the best man, groomsmen, and close family members.

Talking money? Many couples wonder who pays for the wedding. The truth is there’s no one‑size‑fits‑all answer. Talk openly with both families about contributions, set a realistic budget, and stick to it. Our guide on "Who Pays for the Wedding?" breaks down modern traditions and offers a simple spreadsheet to track expenses.

Key Bride Must‑Knows

For brides, the dress is often the centerpiece. Wondering how much a wedding gown should cost? Typical prices range from a few hundred pounds for off‑the‑rack dresses to several thousand for designer couture. Factor in alterations, accessories, and any custom detailing. If you love makeup, check out our "Bridal Makeup Essentials" list – it covers everything from primer to setting spray, so you won’t miss a step on the day.

Invitations are more than paper; they set the tone. Our checklist for "What Should Wedding Invites Include?" makes sure you cover RSVP details, dress code, registry links, and a wedding website. Don’t forget the weight of your cards – standard invitation weight affects postage, and we have a quick table to help you calculate costs.

Photography can be a big expense. How many hours do you really need? Most couples book 6–8 hours to capture the ceremony, portraits, and reception highlights. If budget is tight, consider a single photographer with a second shooter instead of two full‑time pros. Our article "Do You Really Need Two Photographers?" walks you through the pros and cons.

Lastly, the ring exchange ritual. Who gives the ring first? Tradition varies, but many couples now let the groom present the engagement ring first and the bride the wedding band later. Our piece on "Who Gives the Wedding Ring First?" explains the history and modern twists.

All these topics are linked to the "groom bride" tag, so you can jump straight to the article that matters most. Whether you’re a groom figuring out your night‑before timeline or a bride polishing her makeup kit, these resources give you clear, actionable steps.

Remember, a wedding is a celebration of you as a couple. Keep communication open, stay organized, and enjoy the process. With the right planning, your day will feel effortless – and you’ll have stories to tell for years to come.