Choosing your wedding party is one of the first big decisions couples make during wedding planning. While brides often get excited about selecting their bridesmaids and maid of honor, the groom also has an important task: picking his best man and groomsmen.
But where did this tradition of having groomsmen come from? Believe it or not, the history is more intense than you might expect. Our Toronto wedding photographers are breaking down the origins and evolution of the groomsmen tradition.
A Surprising History
Groomsmen, also known historically as ushers, have been part of weddings for centuries. The term “groomsman” was first recorded in 1698, but the idea dates back much further—and the original role wasn’t just ceremonial. It involved real fighting!
In Biblical times and across various cultures, marriage often required the bride’s family’s approval. If that approval wasn’t given, some grooms took matters into their own hands through a practice called “marriage by capture.” The groom would show up with a group of trusted men, sometimes called “bride-knights,” and quite literally fight off the bride’s family to take her away. These early groomsmen were essentially a battle squad.
Beyond the fighting, groomsmen were also tasked with protecting the couple during and after the ceremony. Large dowries made brides and grooms targets for thieves, and it was believed that evil spirits might try to disrupt the union. To confuse both spirits and enemies, groomsmen would often dress similarly to the groom. Think of them as an ancient decoy crew.
Meaning and Role
The historical role of groomsmen was deeply rooted in protection and strategy. They were chosen for their strength and loyalty. The best man, in particular, wasn’t just a close friend—it was the strongest and most skilled fighter in the group, trusted to protect the groom at all costs.
Today
Thankfully, weddings no longer require a fight or flight team. These days, groomsmen are more about celebration than combat. Their role is focused on supporting the groom, helping with pre-wedding events like the bachelor party, standing by his side during the ceremony, and sometimes helping to entertain at the reception.
Some grooms also get creative, involving their groomsmen in things like choreographed entrances, group dances, or playful door games. While the groomsmen today don’t need to protect against bandits or evil spirits, their job is still an important one: to be there for the groom and help the day run smoothly.
Another big difference? Today’s groomsmen are selected based on friendship and closeness, not combat skills. It’s about surrounding yourself with the people who’ve been there for you, and who you want standing by your side when you say “I do.”
Whether your groomsmen are childhood friends, siblings, or your college roommates, they’ll play a memorable part in your big day and our photographers love capturing those moments. Looking for a wedding photographer for your Toronto wedding, engagement, or elopement? Contact us today. Our team at AGI Studio would be honored to tell your love story through stunning photography.
