Let's face it, the wedding is all about the bride.  But behind every good bride is a rock steady groom who is ready for anything.  Having successfully navigated one of life's most exciting and important milestones, I feel it my duty to pass-on my hard earned advice.  So without further ado, here are my top five "Secrets of a Successful Groom:"

1. Be a "Pillar Of Strength" - This wedding planning stuff is an emotional roller-coaster. You WILL fight, you WILL laugh, and one of you might even cry.  Your primary role is to be steadfast and sure; to be "a shoulder to cry on."  To stand-up for your future wife when some wedding planner is trying to rip her off, or a photographer is giving her a bad deal. Be strong - Be a man.

2. You Really Do Care - You could probably care less whether the shoes are white or ivory, but you need to act like you really do care.  Actually listen to what she's asking you.  It might seem like the most mundane question in the world, but just try to give your best answer...and then expect to be disagreed with.  She may or may not need your input, but she definitely needs a sounding board for her ideas.

3. You Made the Right Decision - What comes with this emotional roller-coaster is the occasional feeling that you may have made the wrong decision in asking her hand in marriage.  Did I jump the gun?  Should I have waited longer?  Am I going to be able to live with this woman for the rest of my life?  These thoughts are completely NORMAL.  Marriage is a huge commitment, and during the excitement of the ring-buying and the proposal you had briefly forgotten how serious it is.  Just remember that you put a lot of thought into this decision, and you wouldn't have made it if you didn't think it was the right one.  Keep telling yourself, "These thoughts are NORMAL."

4. Start Thinking About Your Toast - It's never to soon to start thinking about what your going to say for your toast.  Some grooms don't have to do this, but if you do, then start thinking about it.  It's amazing how hard it can be to come up with a few simple words.  Consider using a template from a website or a book.

5. Don't Forget About The Wedding Ring - You thought you were all done when you forked out your life's savings for that giant rock on her finger.  Guess what...you still have to buy her wedding ring.  Talk to your jeweler about how much warning he needs to have them ready.  It's okay to bring the bride with you for this one.

Well that's it.  I'm sure you can find some great tips in other articles, but I feel that these tips will serve you well.  Just take a deep breath, be patient, and remember the golden rule: SHE IS ALWAYS RIGHT.

For more information on wedding related topics and shopping visit: Everything Bride at www.EverythingBride.com