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Planning and timeline · Bridesmaids, best man and ushers

What qualities should a best man have?

Answered by the UK Wedding Websites editorial team · Updated 2026-10-12 · For the bridal party · For grooms

Short answer

A best man should be organised, reliable and calm under pressure. They should be good at communicating, happy to help with practical tasks, and able to make a warm, confident speech. Most importantly, they should be someone the groom trusts.

The best man's role is part organiser, part cheerleader, part friend. They need to be reliable, because they will help with things like collecting suits, keeping the rings safe, and making sure the groom gets to the venue on time. They should be good at talking to people, from the ushers to the venue staff, without causing drama. They also need to be discreet, because they might know private details about the couple. A good best man is not afraid to ask questions or to admit they do not know something. They should be able to handle a small crisis, like a missing button or a late taxi, without panicking. For the speech, they need to be able to write a few kind words and deliver them clearly. They do not have to be a comedian. The most important quality is loyalty: they are there to support the groom before, during and after the wedding. If the groom is nervous, the best man should be the calm one.

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