Planning your special day involves many decisions, both big and small. One question that sometimes pops up is whether you can have two best men at your wedding. Maybe you have two close friends or brothers you can’t imagine choosing between, or perhaps you just want to break the traditional mould.
At Big Day Productions, we’ve seen many combinations, and now we’ll share our experiences. Let’s explore the possibilities, logistics, and etiquette of having two best men on your special day.
Why Choose Two Best Men?
The title of “best man” often carries a lot of significance. Traditionally, it’s given to the groom’s closest friend or relative – someone who’s played a meaningful role in his life.
But what happens if you have two people who feel equally important?
Maybe you have a brother you’re very close to, as well as a lifelong friend you can’t leave out. Or, perhaps you have two best friends who both mean the world to you.
Choosing two best men at your wedding allows you to honour both relationships equally. It avoids hurt feelings and lets you share the responsibilities and special moments with both people who have supported you throughout your life.
Weddings involve more planning and coordination than ever before. From destination bachelor parties to tightly scheduled timelines, the workload can be intense.
The two best men can divide responsibilities, reducing stress and improving execution.
For example:
- One best man can focus on planning the bachelor party
- The other can manage groomsmen coordination and wedding-day logistics
This division ensures nothing slips through the cracks – and no one feels overwhelmed.
Is It Acceptable To Have Two Best Men?
Absolutely! Non-traditional wedding parties are all about personalising the day to fit your style, values, and relationships.
There is no hard-and-fast rule that says you can only have one best man. In fact, more and more couples are breaking away from wedding traditions to create celebrations that reflect who they are.
Having two best men at your wedding is increasingly common, especially as bridal parties become more diverse and inclusive. Whether it’s two best men, two maids of honour, or a mix of genders, most guests and suppliers will be supportive of your decision.
How To Divide The Best Man Duties
One potential concern with having two best men is dividing the traditional best man duties. The good news is that there are many ways to share the role so that both best men feel included.
1. Pre-Wedding Tasks
The best man is often responsible for planning the bachelor party, helping the groom with attire, and offering support during the planning process. With two best men, these tasks can be split or done together.
Maybe one takes the lead on organising the bachelor party while the other helps with suit fittings, or perhaps they co-host all pre-wedding events.
2. The Ceremony
During the wedding ceremony, both best men can stand next to the groom. You can decide who holds the rings, or have them both carry a ring each.
If you’re having a ring bearer, the best men can simply stand by your side as witnesses.
3. The Toast
Traditionally, the best man gives a toast at the reception. With two best men at your wedding, you have options: they can give a joint speech, take turns speaking, or share stories together.
Some duos even opt for a humorous back-and-forth style toast, which can add a fun touch to the celebration.
4. Other Responsibilities
Other best man duties, like signing the marriage license, can also be shared. In some places, only one witness signature is required, so you can choose who signs or ask both to sign if your jurisdiction allows.
Throughout the day, both best men can help coordinate the groomsmen, keep things running smoothly, and offer moral support.
Communicating With Your Wedding Party
If you decide to have two best men at your wedding, be clear about your expectations from the beginning. Explain why you chose both and outline how you’d like to divide the responsibilities. Open communication will ensure everyone feels valued and understands their role.
It’s also a good idea to let your other groomsmen and wedding party members know about your decision. Most people will be supportive, but clear communication helps avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.
Creative Ways to Include Two Best Men
Distinctive Styling
While your groomsmen may dress similarly, you can subtly highlight your two best men with:
- Matching cufflinks or watches
- Coordinated pocket squares or ties
- Personalised accessories reflecting their personalities
This visual distinction looks intentional and polished in photos.
Shared Ceremony Roles
You can assign meaningful but separate responsibilities:
- One best man holds the rings
- The other presents the marriage license
- One helps cue music or timing with your MC or DJ
These moments make both best men feel equally valued.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do both best men have to be male?
No! The title “best man” is traditional, but you can choose anyone who’s important to you, regardless of their gender. Some people use terms like “best person” or “honour attendant” to reflect this.
2. Can both best men stand next to me during the ceremony?
Yes, both best men can stand beside you. You may want to coordinate with your officiant or planner for the best arrangement, but it’s common to have both at your side.
3. Who gives the best man’s speech if there are two best men?
This is up to you! Both can give a joint speech, take turns, or even share funny stories together. Decide what feels right for your personalities and your reception.
Two Best Men, One Unforgettable Celebration
Modern weddings don’t follow rigid rules – they follow meaning. If having multiple best men reflects your relationships and values, it’s the right choice.
With clear communication, thoughtful planning, and the right professional support – from planners to photography specialists like Big Day Productions – having two best men can enhance your wedding rather than complicate it.
At the end of the day, your wedding is about celebrating love, connection, and the people who helped shape your journey. Whether you choose one best man or two, what matters most is surrounding yourself with those who truly have your back.
And when that happens, your big day won’t just run smoothly – it will feel deeply, unmistakably yours.
Ready to plan your UK wedding photography? Get in touch with us!
