Ushers

The ushers are chosen by the groom and best man. They are usually brother(s), close relatives, or friends of the bride and groom. As a general rule of thumb there is one (1) for each fifty (50) guests and they are the responsibility of the best man. Their duties are as follows.

Prior to the wedding ushers should:
- attend the “Stag” night
- arrange purchase or hire of clothes, having agreed who will pay for them
- collect any hired clothes and accessories prior to the wedding
- confirm travel arrangements and time of arrival at the wedding ceremony
- ensure familiarity with VIP’s names and faces to escort them to their seats
- attend the wedding rehearsal
- have a hair cut
- obtain large umbrellas

On the wedding day:
- collect button holes, service sheets, etc, from the bride’s home
- arrive at the church at least half an hour prior to the ceremony’s commencement
- assist with car parking facilities
- greet guests and hand out button holes, order of service sheets and maps showing the route to the reception
- ensure the best man has spare service sheets for the bride and groom
- seat couples with young children near the exit(s)
- escort VIP’s to their seats
- escort additional bridesmaids after the best man and chief bridesmaid down the aisle
- assist the photographer
- ensure the venue if left tidy, checking for left/lost property
- ensure all guests have transport to the reception

At the reception:
- assist with car parking facilities, sheltering guests with umbrellas if necessary
- offer drinks to guest as they arrive if appropriate
- assist elderly or infirm guests

Afterwards
- return any hired clothing and accessories Ushers