When my college roommate asked me to be his best man, I panicked. Not about the bachelor party or walking down the aisle—but about finding the right words to express years of friendship in a single message.
When my college roommate asked me to be his best man, I panicked. Not about the bachelor party or walking down the aisle—but about finding the right words to express years of friendship in a single message.
According to The Knot's 2023 Wedding Study, 87% of grooms choose their best man based on emotional connection rather than family obligation. This means your message carries extra weight—it's a celebration of genuine friendship and shared history.
Whether you're writing a heartfelt card, crafting a speech, or sending a congratulatory text, the right words can make their special day even more memorable. I've compiled over 75 carefully crafted messages covering every relationship dynamic and cultural context you might encounter.
Best Man Messages for the Groom
These messages focus specifically on celebrating your friendship with the groom and his journey to marriage.
Best man messages for the groom should balance personal history with celebration of his new chapter, honoring both your friendship and his commitment to his partner.
- "From late-night study sessions to this beautiful moment—watching you find your perfect match has been incredible. Congratulations on marrying your best friend, brother!"
- "Remember when you said you'd never settle down? Well, [Bride's name] proved you wrong in the best possible way. Cheers to love conquering all!"
- "Five years of friendship, countless adventures, and now this perfect day. You've found someone who loves your terrible jokes as much as I tolerate them. Congratulations!"
- "Seeing you this happy reminds me why we've been friends for so long—you deserve all the joy in the world. Welcome to married life, my friend!"
- "From bachelor to husband in one perfect day. [Bride's name] is getting an amazing man, and you're getting your soulmate. Couldn't be happier for you both!"
Tip: Consider pairing your heartfelt message with a personalized photo frame to showcase your favorite friendship memories.
Best Man Messages to Both Bride and Groom
Inclusive messages that honor both partners show respect for their union and welcome the bride into your friendship circle.
Addressing both partners demonstrates respect for their partnership while acknowledging how their love story enriches your extended friendship family.
- "[Groom's name] and [Bride's name], watching your love story unfold has been magical. Thank you for showing us what true partnership looks like. Congratulations!"
- "To the perfect couple: your love inspires everyone around you. May your marriage be filled with laughter, adventure, and endless happiness together."
- "[Bride's name], thank you for making my best friend the happiest I've ever seen him. [Groom's name], you found your perfect match. Cheers to your beautiful future!"
- "From two individuals to one incredible team—your love story gives us all hope. Wishing you a lifetime of shared dreams and beautiful memories."
- "Today marks the beginning of your greatest adventure together. [Bride's name] and [Groom's name], your love lights up every room you enter. Congratulations!"
Best Man Messages in Different Cultural Contexts
Cultural wedding messages should honor traditions while expressing genuine personal sentiments in appropriate language.
Culturally appropriate best man messages respect heritage and traditions while maintaining authentic personal connection to the couple's unique love story.
- "Sa inyong bagong simula bilang mag-asawa, nawa'y maging masaya at matagumpay ang inyong pagsasama. Congratulations sa inyong kasal!" (Tagalog)
- "May your union be blessed with love, prosperity, and countless generations of happiness. Maligayang pagdating sa bagong kabanata ng inyong buhay!"
- "As you begin this sacred journey together, may your love be a blessing to your families and communities. Congratulations on your beautiful wedding day!"
- "Honoring your heritage and celebrating your future—may your marriage bridge cultures and create beautiful new traditions together."
- "From our hearts to yours, we celebrate not just your love but the beautiful cultures you're bringing together. Maligayang kasal!"
Best Man Proposal Messages
When asking someone to be your best man, your message should clearly communicate the honor while expressing why they're your choice.
Best man proposal messages should convey the significance of the role while highlighting the unique qualities that make this person your perfect choice.
- "I can't imagine my wedding day without my closest friend by my side. Will you be my best man and help make this day unforgettable?"
- "Through every major moment in my life, you've been there. Now I'm asking you to stand with me on the biggest day of all. Will you be my best man?"
- "No one knows me better or has supported me more than you. I'd be honored if you'd be my best man and share this incredible moment with me."
- "From childhood adventures to adult milestones, you've been my constant. Will you take on the most important supporting role of all—my best man?"
- "I need someone I trust completely to help me navigate my wedding day. There's no one I'd rather have as my best man than you. What do you say?"
Tip: Present your best man proposal with a thoughtful gift like a personalized watch or whiskey set to make the moment extra special.
Short and Sweet Best Man Messages
Concise messages work perfectly for cards, social media posts, or quick congratulatory texts.
Short best man messages maximize impact through carefully chosen words that convey genuine sentiment without lengthy explanations or elaborate storytelling.
- "Cheers to love, laughter, and your happily ever after!"
- "Perfect couple, perfect day, perfect love story. Congratulations!"
- "From friends to family—welcome to married life!"
- "Your love story is my favorite. Congratulations, newlyweds!"
- "Here's to forever with your best friend. Cheers!"
- "Love wins today and always. Congratulations!"
- "Two hearts, one beautiful future. So happy for you both!"
- "Today's magic, tomorrow's memories. Congratulations!"
- "Best friends make the best spouses. Proof right here!"
- "Your happiness is contagious. Congratulations, lovebirds!"
Emotional and Heartfelt Best Man Messages
Deeply meaningful messages work best for significant relationships and milestone moments that deserve extra recognition.
Emotional best man messages should authentically reflect your relationship depth while maintaining appropriate boundaries for the wedding celebration occasion.
- "Watching you find someone who loves you as unconditionally as we do brings tears to my eyes. Your happiness completes our friendship circle."
- "Twenty years of friendship led to this perfect moment. Seeing you marry your soulmate reminds me why our bond is so special. Love you, brother."
- "From the boy who shared his toys to the man sharing his heart—you've always had the biggest heart. [Bride's name] is incredibly lucky."
- "Through every challenge, every celebration, every late-night conversation, you've been my rock. Now you've found yours. Congratulations, my friend."
- "Today isn't just about your wedding—it's about watching my brother find his home in someone else's heart. I'm so proud of you both."
Funny and Light-Hearted Best Man Messages
Humorous messages should entertain while maintaining respect and appropriateness for all wedding guests.
Funny best man messages use gentle humor and witty observations to celebrate friendship dynamics without embarrassing stories or inappropriate content.
- "Congratulations on finding someone who thinks your dad jokes are actually funny. [Bride's name], you're a saint!"
- "I always knew you'd find your perfect match—someone who laughs at your stories even though I've heard them all a thousand times!"
- "Marriage is like our friendship, but with better food and someone who actually listens to your problems. Congratulations!"
- "[Groom's name] finally found someone who can tolerate his Netflix choices. True love indeed! Congratulations, you two!"
- "They say opposites attract, but you two are perfect proof that weirdos belong together. Congratulations on your beautiful weirdness!"
- "I was worried I'd lose my best friend to marriage, but [Bride's name] promised to share you on game nights. Perfect arrangement!"
Tip: Complement your funny message with a humorous card or gag gift that reflects your friendship's inside jokes.
How to Write Your Own Best Man Message
Creating personalized messages ensures your words reflect your unique relationship and genuine feelings.
Start by brainstorming three key elements: your favorite shared memory, what you admire most about the groom, and your hopes for their marriage. This foundation gives your message structure and authenticity.
Consider your relationship type and ceremony style when choosing your tone. A childhood friend might warrant more emotional depth, while a work colleague might call for professional warmth. Religious ceremonies often appreciate spiritual references, while casual celebrations welcome humor.
Keep your message between 50-200 words for cards, or 2-3 minutes for speeches. Practice reading aloud to ensure natural flow and appropriate timing. Edit ruthlessly—every word should add value or emotion to your message.
Remember that the best messages come from the heart, not from templates. Use examples as inspiration, but let your authentic voice and genuine feelings guide your final words.
Creating meaningful best man messages starts with celebrating the unique friendship you share and the joy you feel watching them begin this new chapter. Whether you choose humor, emotion, or cultural tradition, your authentic voice makes the difference.
The perfect message balances personal connection with universal celebration, honoring both your friendship and their love story. Don't overthink it—speak from the heart, and your words will resonate with everyone present.
Ready to craft more personalized messages? Explore our wedding SMS templates and personal message guides for additional inspiration. Remember to follow applicable messaging laws and include opt-out options when sending bulk wedding communications.
What should I include in a best man message?
Include personal memories, genuine emotions, congratulations for both partners, and hopes for their future together while maintaining appropriate tone.
How long should a best man message be?
Card messages work best at 50-100 words, while speech messages should be 2-3 minutes or 200-300 words maximum.
Can I use humor in best man messages?
Yes, but keep humor gentle, inclusive, and appropriate for all wedding guests while avoiding embarrassing stories or inside jokes.
Should I address both the bride and groom?
Addressing both partners shows respect for their union, though groom-focused messages are also appropriate depending on your relationship.
What if I'm not good with words?
Start with simple, genuine feelings and use examples as inspiration while letting your authentic voice guide the final message.