Why do grooms have a best man and groomsmen? Although there are many myths and legends associated with this wedding tradition, the most popular originated in a more primitive time when men kidnapped their brides. The groomsmen, called bride-knights, helped their friend capture his bride. They stood guard at the ceremony to protect the groom from the bride’s angry family.
Another basis for this wedding tradition originated with the Romans and involved a bit of superstition. Roman Law required 10 witnesses at every wedding ceremony. During this period, people were afraid of wedding curses involving evil spirits. To confuse the evil spirits, the men (groomsmen) dressed identical to the groom and the women (bridesmaids) dressed the same as the bride; the evil spirits therefore could tell who was getting married. By having attendants the law requirement was fulfilled and the evil spirits couldn’t wreck the wedding.
Today grooms may pick any number or gender of attendants. Their function is to provide support for any number of wedding activities including formal wear selection, bachelor party, and wedding reception activities. They act as emotional support and help to make the day go smoothly.
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