the ushers

Ushers perform a number of important duties on wedding day, with larger weddings typically featuring multiple ushers. A good rule of thumb is to have at least one usher for every 50 expected guests. The ushers are chosen by the groom and best man, and are often family members or close friends of the bride and groom. The best man is in charge of overseeing the ushers and ensuring they’re prepared for their roles on wedding day. Here’s a general timeline ushers should follow leading up to the wedding.

4 months

Make preparations to either purchase or hire the necessary clothing, and determine who will pay for them

1 week before

Confirm final travel arrangements with the best man and other ushers
Get a copy of the guest list from the best man, with instructions for those guests who will be escorted to their seats by ushers
Take part in the wedding rehearsal if necessary
Get a hair cut
Be sure to have some large umbrellas handy in case it rains on wedding day

The day before

If you have any hired clothing or accessories to pick up, do so today

On the day

Collect the buttonholes and order of service sheets to be handed out to guests
Arrive at church on time, a good half hour before the ceremony is scheduled to start

At the church

Help guests with parking arrangements
Greet the guests and supply them with the buttonholes and order of service sheets, as well as maps to the reception venue if applicable
Check with the officiant to ensure they have order of service sheets for the bride and groom
Seat guests with children or infants near to the exit
Escort appropriate guests to their seats, including the mother of the bride
Aid the photographer
Help with clean up of the church after the ceremony, ensuring no garbage, service sheers, or personal belongings have been left behind
Check with guests to ensure they have transportation to the reception

At the reception

Help guests park their vehicles
Greet guests as they arrive and supply them with drinks if desired
Help all elderly and infirm guests

After the wedding

If you made use of any hired clothing or accessories, return them to their owners