Groomsmen in Need of Grooming?

Etiquette expert Peggy Post gives advice on handling your trickiest wedding dilemmas.

Q. One of the groomsmen has a scruffy beard and always seems in need of a haircut. He's a wonderful person, but how do we ensure he's properly clipped and styled for our big day?

A. Just as you wouldn't dismiss a bridesmaid who has gained 10 pounds, you can't force a groomsmen to adopt different personal-grooming habits for your wedding. Yes, it can be worrisome to think that one attendant might stand out among the others. But give the guy some credit: He no doubt grasps the seriousness of the day and will likely surprise you by rising to the occasion. If you really feel the need to say something, avoid this potential Bridezilla territory by asking your husband-to-be to apply some benevolent coercion: "Matt, you're going to shave for the wedding, right, buddy?" If he doesn't clean up, so be it. Focus on what matters most—that your loved ones are there to stand beside you.

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