The terms “ushers” and “groomsmen” are often used interchangeably, but they do refer to distinct roles. Ushers, who can be both men and women, greet and seat guests, distribute programs, answer questions (e.g., location of the restrooms, timing of the ceremony and reception), run minor errands for the clergy and wedding party, etc. Ushers at a wedding are basically responsible for all those duties performed by ushers at any church service. Groomsmen, on the other hand, are the groom’s personal attendants and are to him what bridesmaids are to the bride.
It should also be noted that one reason the terms began to be used interchangeably was because the groomsmen were tasked with usher duties rather than have a much larger wedding party. This can be done, but if the bride and groom have a lot of friends they want to honor, they also could choose to ask some to be personal attendants and some to be ushers.
