An usher is a member of the wedding party whose main role is to escort guests to their seats during the wedding ceremony. They are not part of the wedding party and do not wear the same attire as the groomsmen or bridesmaids. Ushers are traditionally the grooms closest friends or family members, and are usually brothers, close male friends, or relatives of either half of the couple. Some couples choose not to have ushers, relying on their wedding party to do what ushers do, but designating specific ushers and usherettes can be beneficial for a variety of reasons.
The most important wedding usher duties are to greet guests and guide them to their seats at the wedding ceremony. Ushers also hand out programs and direct loved ones to important locations within the venue, such as the restrooms and coat check. Before guests arrive for the ceremony, the ushers lay down the runner, if using one. Ushers are usually friends and relatives around the same age as the groom, but there is no age limit as long as the person is capable of performing the duties. Since they are considered members of the wedding party, they should wear the same attire as the groomsmen.