Groomsmaid vs. Groomsman — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 16, 2024
Groomsmaid participates in wedding party roles typically held by women, supporting the groom; groomsman, usually a man, fulfills similar duties but adheres to traditional male roles.
Difference Between Groomsmaid and Groomsman
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A groomsmaid is often a close female friend or relative of the groom who takes on roles similar to bridesmaids, such as assisting with wedding planning and participating in pre-wedding events. On the other hand, a groomsman, traditionally male, performs duties like organizing the bachelor party and supporting the groom on the wedding day.
During the wedding, a groomsmaid might wear attire that coordinates with the bridesmaids or opt for something that matches the groomsmen, reflecting her unique position. In contrast, a groomsman typically wears a suit or tuxedo that complements the groom’s attire.
Responsibilities of a groomsmaid can include helping the groom with logistical tasks, providing emotional support, and participating in the ceremony, similar to what bridesmaids do for the bride. Meanwhile, a groomsman is involved in similar activities but may also have specific tasks like ushering guests and guarding the rings.
In terms of wedding photos and procession, the groomsmaid usually lines up on the groom’s side, highlighting her role in his circle. Whereas, groomsmen stand beside the groom, often appearing in traditional poses with him.
When it comes to the reception, both groomsmaids and groomsmen may give speeches, participate in dances, and help ensure the event runs smoothly, showcasing their importance to the groom and the overall wedding.
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Comparison Chart
Gender
Female
Male
Attire
May match bridesmaids or groomsmen
Typically matches groom’s attire
Duties
Planning assistance, emotional support, logistics
Organizing bachelor party, ushering, ring security
Positioning
Stands on groom’s side during the ceremony
Stands next to groom during the ceremony
Reception Role
May give speeches, participate in dances
Typically gives speeches, participates in dances
Compare with Definitions
Groomsmaid
Often wears attire coordinated with either bridesmaids or groomsmen.
The groomsmaid wore a dress that matched the bridesmaids' color scheme.
Groomsman
Wears attire that complements the groom's outfit.
Each groomsman wore a tuxedo that matched the groom’s.
Groomsmaid
A woman appointed by the groom to serve in the wedding party.
Julia was honored to be a groomsmaid at her brother's wedding.
Groomsman
Stands next to the groom during the wedding ceremony.
The groomsmen looked proud as they stood by the groom.
Groomsmaid
Serves roles similar to a bridesmaid but on the groom’s side.
As a groomsmaid, her responsibilities included helping with the rehearsal dinner.
Groomsman
A man chosen by the groom to assist and support him throughout the wedding process.
His best friend was the chief groomsman at the wedding.
Groomsmaid
May participate in both bridal and groom's party events.
The groomsmaid attended both the bridal shower and the bachelor party.
Groomsman
Typically handles tasks like planning the bachelor party and helping on the wedding day.
The groomsman organized a memorable bachelor party.
Groomsmaid
Plays a key role in supporting the groom.
She made sure the groom stayed calm and collected on his big day.
Groomsman
Involved in key reception events such as speeches and dances.
The best groomsman gave a touching speech at the reception.
Groomsmaid
A woman who attends a groom during his wedding ceremony, as part of the wedding party.
Groomsman
A groomsman (North America, Australasia) or usher (Britain, Ireland) is one of the male attendants to the groom in a wedding ceremony. Usually, the groom selects close friends and relatives to serve as groomsmen, and it is considered an honor to be selected.
Groomsman
A man who supports the groom leading up to and during a wedding.
Groomsman
A man who serves as one of a number of attendants to a bridegroom at a wedding, one of whom is the best man.
Groomsman
A male attendant of a bridegroom at his wedding; - the chief attendant is also called the best man; - the correlative of bridesmaid.
Groomsman
A male attendant of the bridegroom at a wedding
Common Curiosities
How is the groomsmaid chosen?
A groomsmaid is typically chosen by the groom and is often a close friend or family member who the groom wants to honor and involve in his wedding.
Can a groomsman wear something other than a tuxedo?
Yes, a groomsman can wear attire other than a tuxedo depending on the formality and theme of the wedding, such as a suit or even cultural attire.
Can a groomsman be the best man as well?
Yes, one of the groomsmen can also be designated as the best man, taking on additional responsibilities like holding the rings and giving the main toast at the reception.
What role does a groomsman play in the wedding ceremony?
A groomsman typically plays roles such as ushering guests, standing next to the groom during the ceremony, and sometimes participating in the procession.
What unique contributions can a groomsmaid make to a wedding?
A groomsmaid can offer a unique perspective and support to the groom, bridging traditional gender roles and adding a personal touch to the groom's side of the wedding party.
Can a groomsman be female?
Traditionally, a groomsman is male, but gender roles in wedding parties are flexible, and a woman could serve as a 'groomsman' if she fulfills the roles typically associated with groomsmen.
How does a groomsmaid differ from a bridesmaid?
A groomsmaid differs from a bridesmaid in her alignment with the groom rather than the bride, participating in events and duties that support the groom.
Is it common to have a groomsmaid?
While not as traditional as having groomsmen, it is becoming increasingly common to have groomsmaids as wedding parties become more inclusive and reflective of diverse friendships.
What are some typical activities a groomsmaid might participate in before the wedding?
A groomsmaid might participate in pre-wedding activities such as the bachelor party, wedding rehearsals, and any joint activities planned for the wedding party.
How do groomsmaids and groomsmen coordinate their attire?
Groomsmaids and groomsmen typically coordinate their attire based on guidelines set by the couple, aiming to match or complement the overall wedding color scheme and style.
What is a groomsmaid?
A groomsmaid is a woman who serves in a groom’s wedding party, typically performing roles similar to those of bridesmaids but aligned with the groom's side.
What does a groomsmaid wear?
A groomsmaid may wear attire that matches the bridesmaids or something that aligns more closely with the groomsmen's attire, depending on the couple's preferences.
Can siblings be groomsmaids or groomsmen?
Absolutely, siblings often serve as groomsmaids or groomsmen, reflecting their close relationship with the bride or groom and their desire to be involved in the wedding.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
