More Than Just the Price

So many times when I answer calls about gowns for weddings, proms or any special occasion, the only concern is price.  With so much information on the internet, store owners feel they are often in a pricing battle and become a try-on store for many to return home to shop online. There are plenty of articles about the horrors of shopping online and how it doesn't contribute to the local economy but that is not my focus today.  I want to show why gowns that look so similar can be priced so differently.

Gown on left from P.C. Mary's starts at $479.

Gown on right from Eureka starts at $285.

The important part comes in the description not in the price.  Let look at the differences.
     
        Mary's Style                                                                       Eureka Style

• Available in white, ivory and aqua                         * Available in mint, peach, red, coral,
• Available in sizes 2-30 (all even numbers)                 royal, turquoise, victorian lilac
• Measures 64" hollow to hem                                  * Available in sizes XS-3XL
• Includes lining, satin and chiffon layers                 * Measures 58" hollow to hem
• Fabric is noticeably heavier.                                   * Includes satin with chiffon overlay.

What does all this mean to the customer?  Let me explain.

Color Choices: 

         Sometimes designers who offer more color choices are more expensive.  This does not hold true for these two gowns or for prom in general.  Most prom designers will limit color choices to keep costs lower.  Bridesmaid gowns is where you need to be mindful of color and prices.  Those companies who offer better prices will generally offer less colors and vice versa.  I carry $79 bridesmaid gowns that are available in 16 colors.  On the other end my most expensive gowns averaging around $200 are available in over 130 color combination of lace, satin and chiffon.

Sizes Available:

      This difference is huge to the customer for many reasons.  The Mary's gown is cut in 15 different sizes from 2-30. The Eureka gown only has 7 sizes.  So lets say you measure 38 bust, 31 waist and 42 hip. This is a size 12 on the Mary's chart and should fit with minimal alterations depending on your heights.  These measurement fall between the M and L on the Eureka chart. The M is one inch too small and the L is 2 inches too big.  Ordering the Large could easily add an extra $100 in alteration charges to make the gown fit perfectly. Since Eureka has fewer sizes and bigger gaps in inches between the sizes, alterations are more likely and will cost more.  

      Also comparing the two size charts, the 3XL is close to a size 22 on the Mary's chart.  Therefore, no one over the size 22 would fit into the Eureka gown.  Mary's is the only option for these customers.

Hollow to Hem:

      The Hollow to Hem measurement is taken from the base of the neck (the little dip between the collarbone) to the bottom of the gown.  To give a reference, I am 5'6".  Today I am wearing a 3-inch heel and measure about a 58-inch hollow to hem.  I am about the exact height needed for the Eureka gown.  But I know there are lots of ladies that are taller than me, my daughter being one of them.  Many also like to wear heels making them close to or over 6 feet tall.  If this is you, the Eureka gown is too short.  This is another way designers cut cost to offer a less expensive gown. The Mary's gown has an extra 6 inches of material added on the bottom for taller ladies.

    But if you are not so tall, remember the price to hem a gown that is 1 inch too long or 10 inches too long is the same price!!

Layers:

     Now we are down to the nitty-gritty! Look and feel, something you have no way of knowing when you purchase online.  If you come into my store and feel the fabric of these two gowns and take the time to try them on, you will know the difference!!  The structure of the Mary's gown is far superior to the Eureka gown.  The fabric is silkier and shinier. The full lining will keep the sun from shining through the gown so you won't have to purchase a slip.

     The final test is in pressing the gown.  For the price point, Eureka does really well.  I probably spend about twice the time steaming a Eureka gown compared to a Mary's but at least the wrinkles come out.  If you try on a gown in a store and it is wrinkled, it will most likely stay that way.  The cheaper the fabric, the more wrinkles that do not come out when pressed or steamed.

Beading on Mary's gown

  All of these circumstances are why store owners are in the business!  We are here to help you find the right gown at the right price.  We know what will fit your budget and your body type.  If we don't have the exact gown you are looking for, we will find the next best option or borrow a gown for you to try on.  You won't find this kind of help when ordering online or in a big box store.

So if you are in central Indiana, I look forward to meeting you and helping you to find the gown of your dreams.

If you live somewhere else and cannot travel to Indiana, let me know where you are and I will find a trusted retailer to work with you.  I network with hundreds of other store owners in the US and abroad who are all as passionate about this business as I am!

Beading on Eureka gown

Universally Flattering Bridesmaid Dress Colors

Below is an article from Brides.com concerning Bridesmaid colors.  As with any article, I agree with some aspects but not all. See my recommendations under each color choice.

If you think saying yes to your wedding dress is difficult, try putting yourself in your bridesmaids' shoes. The style, length, and color of the average bridesmaids dress are typically non-negotiable, and bridesmaids must foot the bill for the dress themselves. However, by selecting a universally flattering dress shade for your bridesmaids, you may avoid tears and drama altogether. Here are seven expert-approved, becoming bridesmaid dress shades to please even the most difficult 'maid.

1. Mint
Though not a typical choice, mint is the color du jour in bridesmaid dresses and complements most skin tones, according to Lovely Bride's Cassandra Quinn. "Mint is really having a moment right now and is so flattering on so many complexions," explains Quinn. "We love this fresh color in a range of shades from light and subtle to its deep rich, almost jade, hue."

The problem with mint is the same as many other colors. What exactly is mint?  With several different designers making bridesmaid gowns, colors can be very different from one designer to the next.  So, I agree with the pale green working for most complexions, make sure you like the choice from your dress designer.

2. White
If you don't mind sharing your signature color with your bridesmaids, try selecting ivory or white wares for your bridesmaids. Quinn notes that the neutral shade is compatible with most skin tones.

Sorry, this one I completely disagree!!  Most brides don't select white anymore because it is so NOT compatible with most skin tones. Why would you want a whole wedding party of washed out ladies? Really give this some thought before going through with this color.

3. Navy
Forget any preconceived notions about navy as a preppy, nautical shade. Kathlin Argiro, founder and creative mind behind Kathlin Argiro New York, favors navy for bridesmaid frocks. "It is always chic and timeless to go for classics like navy which work on all skin tones and have the bonus of being the most wearable for other occasions," she clarifies.

Navy is truly great for most skin tones and compliments many other accent colors.  Usually can't go wrong with this choice.

4. Coral
If you venture into vibrant shades, David's Bridal Design Director Patricia Keenan suggests selecting a single color that your salon offers in a range of shades. One of Keenan's preferred colors is a classic coral that comes in a range of shades.

Coral is another color that really varies with designers.  Some will be closer to peach while others go much darker like salmon.  So, once again consult swatches for each designer.  This can also be a difficult color if you have a bridesmaid with red hair. 

5. Black
Though black is historically a shade associated with solemnity and mourning, the inky color is trending this year for bridal gowns and bridesmaid attire alike. Keenan states that if other color options seem trite or staid, "Of course there is always the epitome of elegance: black.

Black works for so many reasons. It is great for most skin colors, is ultra elegant, classic, and can usually be worn after the wedding. The only negative is the funeral idea.

6. Burgundy
When it comes to winter weddings, Agiro relies on rich, vivid hues like burgundy, whose depths enhance most skin tones. "Generally speaking, more saturated colors work best on a variety of skin tones," she elaborates.

Burgundy, red, claret and any other shade of red are usually one of the best sellers for any bridal store.  The vibrant colors look great on the bridesmaids as well as in decorations.  Again, consider anyone with red hair before deciding on a final color choice.

7. Emerald Green
Fashion-forward brides may wish to channel 2014's fairytale trend by selecting emerald green for bridesmaid dresses. Agiro cites the shade as another of her favorites, saying, "To keep the palette sophisticated I would opt for deeper shades of jewel tones."

Emerald green, like the red, is very bold.  It looks wonderful in pictures and brightens the atmosphere. And most redheads love green!

As always, everyone is different. Pleasing more than one bridesmaid can be a real challenge. And although it is the bride's day, she will want everyone to look beautiful for her special day.  So my best advice is to get to a store and try on some different colors. Pictures on Pinterest may be a great place to start, but what the bride has in mind may not work for those she is having in the wedding.

And as always, you can always email me at rushvillebridal@yahoo.com if you have specific questions.

10 Things You Must Know Before Shopping for a Wedding Gown

Here is an article from Bustle with my recommendations included.

WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING: 10 THINGS YOU MUST KNOW BEFORE YOU EVEN THINK OF HITTING THE STORE

Finding the perfect dress isn’t always what it seems — and it certainly isn’t like a scene from Bride Wars (pre-Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway girl fight at The Plaza). Don’t stress, though. With a few ground rules to follow, a budget established, and expectations managed, your wedding dress shopping experience should be smooth sailing from here on out. 

1. SET YOUR BUDGET

Establish the maximum amount you’re willing to spend on your wedding dress — and stick to it. The total budget should include the dress, as well as the estimated costs of alterations, veil or headpiece, and belt. Those “hidden” costs add up. To avoid any financial surprises later on, make sure to cover all the fashion bases from the beginning.

This can definitely make a great experience go bad quickly.  With no budget, brides feel free to try on anything. Then once she has selected THE gown and someone else is holding the purse strings, makes for a terrible situation for everyone.  

The only change I would suggest is to set separate budgets for each item.  This way if your gown is a little over budget but you don't need a belt with your gown, you can move around some of your money.  Just keep in mind to not go over on all the items and be left with nothing for the last minute items.

2. IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY TO START LOOKING

As soon as the ring is on your finger, it’s pretty much go-time on the dress shopping front. I’m not advocating for crazed behavior, but from a logistics standpoint, starting the process at least eight to nine months out is a good idea. Allow yourself time to actually find it, then allow time for fittings, alterations, and having it shipped or delivered to you. 

This is spot on!! Although it says 8-9 months, 12-14 months is not unreasonable.  Keeping in mind that most brides do not purchase on the first store visit, there may be 2-3 weeks between your first shopping experience and placing your order. If you feel rushed to make the purchase, there is a bigger chance of having buyer's remorse.

As a side note, don't let any salon or consultant push you into something you are not sure of.  Feel free to ask for the manager or owner or go to another store to confirm what you are being told.

3. HAVE A PLAN

Like all good plans, research and appointment-making go a long way. To the former point, peruse bridal magazines (Martha Stewart Real Weddingsis a great resource!), put in some time on Pinterest, and check out your favorite bridal designers (Vera Wang, Marchesa, Oscar de la Renta, etc.) for design inspiration and styling reference. To the latter point, most bridal salons, specialty shops, and department stores don’t operate on a walk-in schedule. Make sure they’re expecting you upon arrival.

This is the first one I will have to disagree.  If you fall in love with the $10,000 gown online and your budget is only $1000, you probably will not be happy with any gown you try on.  You can definitely check out sources online, but without prices available, be very careful.  And remember that what looks good in a picture may be totally different on you.

And although Martha is ok, I will give a plug to my friend Jim who puts together a great magazine at Bridal Guide.  And of course, I like to promote the website, The Knot http://www.theknot.com/Vendors/Rushville-Bridal/Profile/BWP/198/602314/profile?sid=XnPfH00q467C3jy7cmTuOQ because I help to keep it running with advertising dollars!

4. LIMIT YOUR ENTOURAGE

You’ll most likely want a second and third opinion. Outside perspective and honest feedback are welcome, but too much “noise” can cloud your gut judgment. The most important thing is that you love the dress, even if that ultimately means going against the popular vote.

I have seen this go in many directions. Some brides come with no one and complete the purchase by themselves.  Others want to come back with help.  Some brides will bring only 2-3 and still want others to see the gown.  Of course, I have seen the big parties fight over which gown the bride should select and she finally leaves with nothing.  My suggestions is to start with the smaller group to keep stress levels lower.  This is not a time for added stress.  Then if you feel the 2-3 you brought didn't give the feedback you wanted, try again with a different 2-3.

BUT--ultimately the decision is YOURS as the bride.  You know the groom the best and you know what is comfortable and looks good on you.  Don't be afraid to tell anyone in your entourage that it is NOT their wedding!! (I really want those words printed over the large mirrors in my store so I can just tell some to read the writing on the wall.)

5. EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

Here’s an (obvious) shocker: You may actually look good in styles you didn’t think would flatter you. Perhaps you thought an A-line strapless gown was the shoo-in, only to discover a lace cap-sleeve mermaid gown was the clear winner. Don’t be disappointed by dashed expectations — go in with an open mind, and remember to try on a variety of silhouettes. At the very least, it serves as added context. 

Good advice again except don't try on too many gowns.  Once you have tried on 5-6 gowns, you should have a good idea of the general style you are looking for.  If you have tried on 40-50 (or more) gowns, you are too mind-boggled to make a decision or you're not ready to make a decision (that's a whole other issue). 

6. DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE BIG PICTURE

Is this the wedding dress you can stun in at the ceremony? Sit in during the toasts? And dance your ass off in on the dance floor? If you can’t envision all three scenarios while narrowing down the options, put the dress on the back burner. You want to look beautiful, feel beautiful, and let’s be honest, you want to be comfortable, too. 

Yes, we often want to please mom, grandma, dad, sister, groom, whoever but remember it is your day.  And it will be a LONG day! Your gown should be your best friend for the day not the nuisance you are glad to get rid of as soon as possible.

7. NO TEARS, NO PROBLEM

Despite the fact that every reality TV show and rom-com have led you (and everyone around you) to believe you will shed tears as soon as you come out clad in “the one,” this isn’t always the case. And that’s OK. It’s totally cool if you do cry — it is a happy occasion, after all! — but don’t let the absence of tears make you think it’s a sign that you don’t absolutely love what you’re wearing. The waterworks just aren’t for everyone.

All brides are different and your timing will be different from others.  Last week, I had a bride I have known for many years and she is not a crier. But once all her alterations were done and the gown was pressed and ready for the aisle, she cried!  That I did not expect! Just be yourself and enjoy the whole experience. 

8. SOMETIMES THE FIRST DRESS IS “THE ONE”

Shopping for a wedding dress doesn’t always require countless try-ons. Sometimes it really is love at first sight. There’s nothing wrong with finding “the one” right out of the gate — it certainly frees you up to focus your time and energy on things like stationery design, floral arrangements, and securing the best photographer.

In 18 years of owning a bridal store, I will always remember the one bride who tried on nothing and ordered a gown from a picture in a catalog.  It scared me to death but it worked out beautifully.  She loved the gown and looked great! So buying the first one you try on is also reasonable.  Actually, I did that!  I did go to 2 other stores to try on some different styles but came back to the first store and ordered the first gown I tried on.

9. DON’T UNDERESTIMATE GREAT SHAPEWEAR 

Don’t underestimate the power of great shapewear. The gown of your dreams may not be perfect yet. It may need alterations and it may need a little more shape, but you can work with that. Especially if you have a well-made corset or bustier to help you with those problem areas. 

Although shapewear can be wonderful, it can also be uncomfortable. So put some time and thought into purchasing those items as well. 

I would have titled #9 as Don't Underestimate Great Alterations! Most people do not usually alter their everyday clothing and sometimes not even special occasion clothing.  But alterations for a wedding gown are a must.  Just remember in #1 to budget for those charges.  As with regular clothing, alterations are not included in the price of the gown.

10. DRESS UP (JUST A LITTLE)

It might be difficult to imagine yourself walking down the aisle if you’re trying on dresses with post-yoga hair and no makeup. You don’t need to look your Sunday best, but a spot of mascara and your hair styled in the way you’re thinking of wearing it on the “big day” could make all the difference when you’re envisioning the entire look. 

Your appointment day will include lots of pictures.  Even if the salon will not allow pictures, there will be pictures outside the store or on the way there.  

You will also be changing clothing with a consultant in the dressing room with you. Don't embarrass her or yourself by wearing the wrong undergarments (or worse, no undergarments!)

Biggest Wedding Dress Regrets

I saw a link to an article on The Knot with this title.  Although I have see or heard these comment hundreds of times, some brides just don't want to believe them.  So to emphasize the point here are the quotes from real brides one more time!

From the three-dress bride to the bride who accidentally texted the dress photo to her fiance -- check out these dress shopping mistakes from brides on our Attire and Accessories board so that you don’t make the same ones!

"My sister-in-law couldn't make it to my first shopping trip, so I texted her a pic of my favorite. I didn't realize that I’d sent it to the wrong person (MY FIANCE!). It's hard to be sneaky."katiethecutie

"Biggest mistake: expecting my dress shopping experience to go exactly like a 22-minute episode of Say Yes to the Dress complete with crying friends and family and that OMGOMGOMG feeling." Leslie&Ralph

"To save money I ordered my dress online, which gave me a better price than the bridal store in town. Big mistake! The dress came in and it's huge. Now I have to pay a ridiculous price for alterations that are making the gown cost more than it would have in the bridal store." jnic0319

"I have champagne taste on a beer budget. I tried on a Vera Wang for fun and I shouldn’t have. You can imagine that I fell in love with that beauty. Don’t try on wedding dresses that you cannot afford." verbride

"I now have three dresses and only one that I’ll wear. Do not shop almost two years out, do not let fantasy get in the way of reality, and do not buy a dress before you have concrete wedding plans." dizzinea

"I should’ve brought a bathrobe to the bridal salon. Having a robe makes it easy to spend time with your friends and family during the downtime while the attendant brings in gowns. It also helps you avoid hiding in the dressing room in your underwear." Robyn5298

"Don’t try on dresses after a trip to a spray tanner. What I thought would make me look like a glowing bride later rubbed off on the bridal salon’s sample dresses." mobridetobe

"Don't wear a black thong!" barbbhoww

"I wish I'd waited until 10 to 14 months out to try on dresses for the first time. I ended up trying on over 100 gowns and it was completely overwhelming." polichik

Remember that a full service bridal store can help you avoid any of these problems.  A great bridal store is only as good as the advice they give.  Sometimes knowing you are helping someone is better than making the sale!!

Advice on purchasing a quality gown

I recently viewed a video from TLC concerning how to tell if a gown is quality.  While the information is good, the video is very short. Therefore, there is no way that all the information you need to make the best decision for a gown is included.  So let's start by viewing the video.



The first item I really like is when Leslie says to look at the label for the content of the gown not the designer.  With 18 years of experience with searching for gowns at several bridal markets from Chicago to Dallas, I can tell you that there are moderately priced designers who use only the best quality of materials.  And on the down side, there are very high priced designers who use less quality materials wanting the customer to pay for the designer label.  Here are a list of the ones I consider to be among the best for their price ranges.

•  Mary's Bridal - My favorite for the most bang for your buck.  All of their gowns are under $2000 with many under $1000. I usually stock their gowns in the $600-$800 price range.
• Moonlight - This was the first company I could really tell the difference between their moderate line and couture line.  Their styling, bead work and lace are exceptional on the couture gowns.
• Mon Cheri - This company offers many designers such as David Tutera, Sophia Tolli, James Clifford and Tony Bowls.  Each designer adds their own flare to each gown.  These gowns are regularly seen on shows such as Say Yes to the Dress being sold for $3000-$4000.  The actual suggested retail price of most gowns in these lines are in the $1000-$2000 range.  But the styling and craftsmanship can dictate higher prices for big city salons with large overhead costs to cover.  (That's another idea for another blog on why smaller boutiques can offer better prices!)
• Andrew Adela - This is a relatively new designer to the bridal world.  The designer started with bridesmaid gowns and added mothers/special occasion gowns.  Both offer great styling and details.  Last fall I was excited to see their new line of bridal gowns but was very disappointed. I will keep an open mind for the next season and let you know.

There are plenty of other quality gown designers in lots of price ranges. My best advice to any bride is to find a bridal consultant you trust.  If you don't trust the consultant or store, simply do not give them your money. And if you want my honest opinion on poor quality lines, I am happy to give that in private. You can send me an email at rushvillebridal@yahoo.com.

This article is shared from The Huffington Post.  It has great information. Enjoy.

7 Must-Read Tech Tips for Engaged Couples

1. Pause-before-sharing: engagement
You said 'YES' and you want to tell the world, right? Well remember that some of the world may appreciate hearing about your major life milestone directly from you, either in person or on the phone. When I got engaged I first called both sets of parents, which sparked a phone tree to all aunts and cousins. My fiancé and I each called special relatives over the next few days and surprised a few friends at dinners the following weekend. After about two weeks, we finally made the news Facebook-official to share with the world.
Family and closest friends truly appreciated being given the chance to share in our celebration and, for newly engaged couples, it's really fun to play the game "do they see the ring yet?!"
2. Pause-before-sharing: wedding planning
The "pause-before-sharing" rule should also be applied throughout the planning process. As a general rule of etiquette, always consider the feelings of the audience. Things that fall under the don't-post category include: your bridal party selections, your wedding website and anything about price and budget.
Tech savvy tip: Create a list in your 'friends' section and title it 'wedding guests'. Then when you start to post about playlist requests or instructions to the flash mob, you won't make enemies.

3. Ladies and gentleman, start your #hashtags
If you've made the decision to document your wedding on social media, it's best to create your hashtag as early as possible. Include it as you ask friends to be in your wedding and share it on shower and bachelorette party invitations. If you start to incorporate the hashtag phrase early, people will use it to capture any activities related to your big day (for example: going shopping for their dress, baking cupcakes for your shower, etc).
Just remember that Instagram is a public search engine and anything with that hashtag can and will be seen by friends and friends-of-friends.
Not sure if you want to use a hashtag? Consider these risks from The Knot before deciding.
4. #Awesomepics - Now what?
As many social media users are aware, Instagram photos can't be saved to your photo library unless you take a screenshot of the post. Luckily there are many fabulous aggregator apps (like Wedding Party, Appy Couple, Capsule and Wedpics) that allow you to create an app, invite guests and allow everyone to upload all images and video from the wedding to a single location. These are definitely beneficial and highly recommended if you are incorporating social media as an integral part of your wedding experience.
5. Tweeter of Honor
Almost as popular as the maid of honor or best man, the Tweetmaster or Tweeter of Honor is becoming a normal addition to bridal party lineups. This is a tech savvy person that can document your wedding from your perspective or just on your behalf. The TOH could be used in addition to or in replacement of asking all guests to post, especially if your crowd is not so tech savvy. It still allows for your wedding day to be documented to the masses but in a slightly more controlled fashion.
6. With this phone, I thee hide
The only other vow you need to take on your wedding day: You shall not have your phone on you! The day goes by so quickly and it's quite a rare occasion that you're surrounded by all your closest friends and family, so find peace in the fact that you hired someone (and possibly even assigned someone) to capture the day on your behalf. The only exception to this rule is an awesome newlywed #selfie.
7. Communicate expectations
In order to successfully include social media into your wedding, you need to provide direction and expectations. It's one thing to want your friends to post funny pictures that you normally would not see but it's another to have a sea of iPhones and iPads attempting to capture your walk down the aisle (also a nuisance to your paid photographer).
Here are two examples of phrases to include on your wedding website and/or ceremony program.
When photos are not allowed during ceremony...
We are so excited that you've joined us on this special day. We want you to be present during the ceremony and ask that you refrain from taking pictures. We have hired professional photographers to capture these memories and request that all phones and cameras are turned off until the reception.
When photos are allowed during ceremony...
We are so excited that you've joined us on this special day. Feel free to capture this day on your cameras and phones. Our only request is that you wait to post any photos until the reception, allowing us the honor of posting our first pic as husband and wife (#selfie).
We found some other awesome copy & paste phrases to help set these expectations at Offbeat Bride.
Are you a guest of a tech-friendly wedding? Click here to brush up on your social media manners.
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Author: Amanda Goetz is the Founder and CEO of Availendar

Sometimes even the "Professional" don't have the right answers for the Groom and Groomsmen

Here is the second part of the Wedding Party 101 from The Knot magazine.  This one will focus on the groom and groomsmen. This is a topic that many people are not familiar with since many men normally do not wear tuxedos on a regular basis. Here are some tips to help you decide your look for the special day.

• Brush up on your tuxedo terms and take a peek in your own closet before you begin suit shopping.  This will give you an idea of what you like best--notched or shawl lapel, standard or spread collar.

One thing the magazines often forget is where the reader is from. This is great advice for a business man who regularly wears a suit.  But I live in farm country!  My typical customer maybe owns one suit and rarely wears it. So searching the closet will not be much help. On the other hand, brushing up on your tuxedo terms is a great hint.  The best way to do so is to visit a website for tuxedo rentals. My advice is to go to www.jimsformalwear.com . Here you will find answers to most questions about a tuxedo.  There is also a great tux-builder feature. You can select your coat, shirt, vest and tie and see what it will look like together. But if the information you are looking for is not there, don't hesitate to ask your local formal wear dealer.

• The groomsmen should dress around the groom.  A consistent look is great, but the groom should sport some detail(a boutonniere, tie or pocket square) that differentiates him from the pack.

This is great advice.  The groom can be dressed closely to everyone else but should have at least one small difference.  But sometimes the groom wants to be completely different.  That is good too!!  Remember it should be as much his day as the bride! Again, the bride and groom need to communicate their ideas of the wedding style before selecting attire.  The groom and groomsmen should compliment the ladies for the day.  And here is my newest pet peeve.  The bride and bridesmaids have on gorgeous gowns with beading in satin or chiffon, pretty hair dos, nails done--the works.  The guys come in blue jeans and t shirts!?! This just doesn't compute.  This is your one special day.  If he is not willing to sacrifice a few hours in a nice suit or tux, how will he do with the really hard stuff in the relationship? Maybe this is just my thinking as a wedding professional. We are all free to have our own opinions.

• The tuxedo is classic, but consider all your options.  Marrying by the beach?  Try a more casual jacket and trousers.  Having an ultra-formal wedding? Pick a cutaway coat, gray-striped trousers, gray vest and ascot.

 Ok, we all know there is such a thing as etiquette.  The questions is do you always follow the rules?  Can we pick and chose the rules for our special day?  If you did your homework from #1, you probably found there are certain times and functions that you should wear different types of suits and tuxes.  If you did not, go back through my blogs and find one I wrote on Suits VS Tuxes.  Then you should be able to make your choice for the day.

• Should you rent or buy? If you don't attend many formal events or if your weight is frequently in flux, renting may be the way to go.  If you'll have four or more good uses for a tux, the suit will pay for itself.

This is kind of a no brainer in farm country and why my tuxedo rentals have remained fairly constant during a national dip.  Many men in my area just don't have a reason to purchase a tuxedo and often not even a suit.  But remember that whatever your needs, we can take care of you.  Rushville Bridal has a full line of suits and tuxedos for rental or sale.

Here are the basics for tuxedo jacket styles.  It's all in the collar!

Classic Notch Collar Tuxedo can be paired with any vest and tie.

 

Shawl Collar Tuxedo

Peak Collar Tuxedo

Use this coupon for any complete tuxedo rental.