Today is the last day for the blogging challenge for October. I should have counted exactly how many blogs I posted but didn't think of that until I started typing. I know I didn't hit all 31 days and I still have one blog from earlier in the week that I am searching for the perfect picture to finish it up. Overall, I feel satisfied with the effort I gave to the project.
On the other hand, I think about all the things that didn't get done in the month of October. I usually try to change the gowns in the front window each week. This month I think they were only changed twice.
I try to post through Hootsuite with a picture of a new gown or something exciting happening in the bridal world. Last week, I realized that I hadn't logged into Hootsuite for almost 2 weeks.
So even though my blog presence has increased, my other forms of keeping the public informed have suffered. So in the next month, I will continue to blog but maybe just one or two times each week. Then make sure I have time to do all the other social media and change the mannequins in the window.
Now for some wedding information, I am putting the final touches on my orders for spring. I am very excited to start receiving new gowns! If you want to see pictures of my new gowns, like my Facebook page, Rushville Bridal at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rushville-Bridal/110670907723. I also have pages on Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+ if you prefer those.
And today, I am trying something different, no pictures. We will see if the number of page views is bigger or smaller without the pictures.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Wedding party roles and responsibilities
| Mary's Bridal |
While continuing to work on a more elaborate blog that I started yesterday, here is a great read from Bridal Guide magazine.Go to
http://www.bridalguide.com/etiquette/roles-responsibilities/who-does-what
Not only are there suggestions for each member of the wedding party, there are budget guidelines for all aspects of the wedding day. And although this article is not recent, the information still applies.
Then continue on to the comments. There are several more good questions about specific items that are not covered in the original article.
Of course, if you have a question that was not answered, feel free to give me a call. 866-920-3094.
And just to make the blog pretty, here are some more lovely wedding gowns.
| Mary's Bridal |
| Mary's Bridal |
| Mary's Bridal |
Monday, October 28, 2013
Internet Issues
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| Sophia Tolli Gown |
I was working so hard on a new blog today with some great information when---CRASH! My internet is disabled with very little of what I had prepared saved. But I am trying to complete as many blogs as possible in this 30 day challenge. So with only a few days remaining, here is a quick attempt to give you some information on the upcoming spring season.
Sleeves and coverings are coming back. See which of the following is your favorite.
| Mary's Bridal |
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| Mary's Bridal |
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| Impression Bridal |
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| Allure Bridal Gown |
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| Maggie Sottero |
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| Maggie Sottero |
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| Sophia Tolli Gown |
Sunday, October 27, 2013
Awkward Wedding Situations
Another interesting read from the Huffington Post. Let me know if you agree.
Awkward Wedding Situations (and How to Handle Them)
Posted: 10/24/2013 2:33 pm
Read more
Strange things happen as a part of almost every wedding. Here is a list of some common awkward moments and suggestions of how to navigate them:
1. A guest shows up that didn't RSVP or wasn't invited -- One problem with Facebook and other social media sites is it becomes very easy for people to learn the details of your wedding plans. You have a couple of options for how to handle this. I chose to pay for an extra table to accommodate any unexpected guests. I just figured it would be easier that way. Some brides choose to have someone check all guests in against a list. That way that person can tactfully tell them that you weren't expecting them and don't have a seat for them.
2. Someone RSVPs that you didn't invite -- I spoke to a bride recently and someone RSVPed via the wedding Facebook page. Apparently another guest invited this friend to the page assuming they were invited as well. First, change the settings of your wedding page to disallow people from adding people (who does that?) to it. Second, have a tactful conversation with that person. Let them know that you would love to invite everyone but finances or your venue require you to make some tough decisions. Third, have a conversation with the well-intentioned jack nard that is inviting people to your wedding all willy-nilly.
3. Someone has too much to drink at your reception -- Everyone has that uncle/aunt/cousin/friend/sibling that drinks too much and gets out of hand. If you don't have one, don't worry. I bet your fiancé does! This is kind of hard to avoid. In my family, people bring their own alcohol just in case it isn't served. Don't stress yourself over babysitting these people. If you are super concerned about this person, don't invite them. In any event, make sure you let them, and whoever they are coming with, know your concerns in advance and be clear that you want them to enjoy themselves but not to excess.
4. Inviting an ex -- I don't think this is ever a good idea, whether it's your ex, your parent's ex or even someone you have a child with. If everyone gets along, it's your call but you have to think about your other guests. They may not feel comfortable with your ex or your former step-father there. Their presence may distract from the meaning of the day.
5. Seating divorced parents -- If you think your parents will play nice and put their differences aside for until your reception is over, then by all means seat them together on the front row. If either has remarried it is wise to seat one in the second row. At the reception, each parent should have their own table where they host their respective family.
6. Someone you dated is in the bridal party -- This (hopefully) doesn't pertain to the happy couple but more to a guest or bridal party member. It's very common to run into someone you once dated at a mutual friend's wedding. If this happens, be an adult. Smile, say hello and walk away.
7. Inviting guests with adult children at home -- This one is tricky. You want to invite your mom's best friend, but not her son that lives with her. Be very explicit in your wording on your invite. Specify Mr. and Mrs. So-and-so and ask for her dinner choice and his. It may also be a good idea to enlist your mom to clarify if there is any confusion.
8. Dealing with family feuds -- Unfortunately not all families get along. My husband has a relative that doesn't like me for reasons I will never understand. And it was tough trying to decide whether or not to invite her. In the end I decided to invite her and hope that either she wouldn't come or if she did, she would behave. In my case, she didn't show and my wedding was wonderful, but in your case she may come. If she does, keep your distance and pretend she's not there. If the feud is among your guests, seat them as far away from each other as you can and recruit other relatives to keep them apart as much as they can. Ignore them and enjoy your wedding day.
9. You are invited and someone else isn't -- It's very exciting to get an invitation to a friend's wedding. That excitement shatters when you find out that another friend isn't invited to the same event. If your friend asks you to find out if they were invited or why they weren't invited, tell them no. You don't need to get in the middle of it. I'm very good at tactfully handling situations like this. I would tell the friend no, but mention something to the bride. I may say something like, "She mentioned that she didn't get an invitation. I don't know if that was intentional or an oversight but I just wanted to make you aware." And then leave it alone.
Saturday, October 26, 2013
3 Signs You Bought the Wrong Wedding Dress
I found this article on the Huffington Post Wedding Guide. I will give you a chance to read it first, and then tell you if I agree.
3 Signs You (Oops!) Bought the Wrong Wedding Dress -- Plus, What You Can Do to Fix It
Posted: 08/26/2013 5:41 pm
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| This gown could cause remorse!! |
Nine and half times out of 10, I've found the bride is still thrilled when her dress arrives. But here are three signs you might not be.
1) You're not quite comfortable with the cut. Maybe your mom encouraged you to go strapless, or a salesgirl convinced you that you HAD to have an open back. But any tugging and adjusting you're doing in the shop are going to be multiplied by 100 on your wedding day. If you feel awkward and uncomfortable in your gown, that's exactly how you're going to look walking down the aisle.
2) It has ZERO wiggle room. It's easy to be tempted by a marked-way-down sample or a deeply discounted showroom gown, but if you can't breathe in your dress, you're going to spend hundreds having it fixed -- or seriously suffer on your wedding day. (Good to know: In general, wedding dresses are made with alterations in mind, but samples and showroom dresses don't always have the extra fabric allowances.) When in doubt, size up. And if the fit of a sample-size dress is questionable, don't risk it.
3) It costs three times more than you should have spent. With so many well-priced options out there, it's just not worth it to blow your rent on your wedding dress. I can pretty much guarantee you won't look back on your wedding day and wish, If ONLY I had spent more on my dress. Plus, thinking about your wedding dress should make you feel starry-eyed, not panicked and stressed.
So what do you think? I don't really agree with any of these statements.
Starting with #1. All brides need to remember what is stated in #2. That alterations of some kind are needed for almost every wedding gown. They are not your everyday clothing items that stretch and bend. So if you are not totally satisfied with the cut when you first try it on, meet with an alteration specialists. See what can be done with the gown. Many of your awkward and uncomfortable feelings can be calmed and make you a beautiful, confident bride going down the aisle.
#2 It is true that we always recommend buying something a little too big than too small. All gowns can be made smaller but going bigger is much more difficult. That being said, again, consult the alteration specialists. I have had many brides who have gained weight while waiting for the wedding. Sometimes letting out the side seams for an extra inch or two was plenty. Other times an extra panel of fabric needed to be added for closure.
#3 Well, I completely disagree with this one. As numerous brides have visited my store with family and friends, I have heard stories from previous brides. Many state they hated their wedding gown because their budget only allowed them to go to JC Penney outlet or wear someone's hand me down. I distinctly recall one bride who tried to compromise with a lower priced gown. We searched every catalog in the store finding a gown as close to THE gown as possible. When the gown arrived, she was so disappointed. It did not live up to THE gown. So what did we do? We ordered THE gown. Now she had paid for 2 gowns instead of 1.
I understand that everyone has a budget and that wedding gowns can be very expensive. This is why it is so important to find the right boutique to work with. I have ordered gowns for brides with no money down, brought in sample gowns for brides to try on and even given store credit for gowns that brides did not like. All of these are unheard of at the large stores!
So as keeping an open mind is important while shopping, it is also important when first trying on your gown.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Lace is the rage!
It seems that every bride recently has asked for lace. Either a lace wedding gown or lace bridesmaid gowns or both. Although lace is one of the more expensive materials, there is a wide selection available from many designers. Which one is your favorite?
This David Tutera gown offers a little lace with sheer shoulder straps.
Allure is known for their all-over lace gowns. This one does not disappoint!
At the Chicago Bridal Market, David himself said this sea mist/ivory lace gown is a "must have" for the spring season.
Although Mary's is know for bling, they did a wonderful lace design without the bling!
Another stunning Mary's gown with lace appliques and just the right amount of bling.
Mori Lee gown with traditional Chantilly lace.
Here are some bridesmaid selections.
You can find all of these bridesmaid gowns in stock at Rushville Bridal.
Not all of the bridal styles are in stock at this time but may be ordered.
We do sell gowns off the rack, so please call to see if we still have your favorite in the store.
866-920-3094
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| David Tutera Gown $1250 |
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| Allure Gown $1325 |
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| David Tutera Gown $1750 |
Allure is known for their all-over lace gowns. This one does not disappoint!
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| P.C. Mary's Gown $660 |
At the Chicago Bridal Market, David himself said this sea mist/ivory lace gown is a "must have" for the spring season.
Although Mary's is know for bling, they did a wonderful lace design without the bling!
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| P.C. Mary's Gown $550 |
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| Mori Lee Gown $1200 |
Another stunning Mary's gown with lace appliques and just the right amount of bling.
Mori Lee gown with traditional Chantilly lace.
Here are some bridesmaid selections.
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| Mackenzie Michaels $210 |
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| Davinci $210 |
You can find all of these bridesmaid gowns in stock at Rushville Bridal.
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| Andrew A $189 short, $210 Long |
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| Eureka $139 |
Not all of the bridal styles are in stock at this time but may be ordered.
We do sell gowns off the rack, so please call to see if we still have your favorite in the store.
866-920-3094
Friday, October 18, 2013
1:8
1:8 is a fairly large ratio. If you bet on a horse that is 1:8, you would make quite a bit of cash. But since this blog is for wedding information, I am not going to the horse races today.
This ratio is the number of names that he has for green compared to what you may have!!
lime clover fern moss shamrock peridot celadon olive kiwi avocado mint honeydew spring sea foam fern flora pine emerald hunter mist
Ok, I actually found 20 names for shades of green. But I don't think it ends here. I think for almost every shade of the rainbow, I can find 8 to 10 names that most men would not even consider.
red claret burgundy bordeaux wine garnet ruby apple cherry brick red
And technically shades of pink are in the red family, too.
pink fuchsia cotton candy bubble gum rose cerise rouge raspberry berry flamingo azalea magenta
How about the blue shades?
ocean cloudy periwinkle sky arctic turquoise cornflower marine royal midnight light blue azul sapphire navy turkish blue capri bahama blue teal aqua tiffany blue bluestone jewel blue baby blue powder blue desert blue
WOW! Let's try purple.
lilac grape eggplant majestic violet regal lavender blue aubergine passion pansy orchid mauve
And let's not forget orange. I think this one will be the hardest to find 8 shades but I will try.
peach sunset coral cognac burnt orange cinnamon tangerine papaya tiger lily pumpkin rust
Success with orange, so moving on to yellow.
sunrise banana canary ivory maize buttercup gold sand citrus champagne cream
And just because I can, I will do brown
chocolate sable mocha bronze toffee coffee copper penny terra cotta palomino
So groom's give your bride a break when she is stressing over wedding colors. There are so many to choose from and trying to coordinate all the colors for gowns, tuxes, accessories, flowers and decorations can be exhausting.
If you need help, contact your local small bridal store for assistance. We love to help!
This ratio is the number of names that he has for green compared to what you may have!!
lime clover fern moss shamrock peridot celadon olive kiwi avocado mint honeydew spring sea foam fern flora pine emerald hunter mist
Ok, I actually found 20 names for shades of green. But I don't think it ends here. I think for almost every shade of the rainbow, I can find 8 to 10 names that most men would not even consider.
red claret burgundy bordeaux wine garnet ruby apple cherry brick red
And technically shades of pink are in the red family, too.
pink fuchsia cotton candy bubble gum rose cerise rouge raspberry berry flamingo azalea magenta
How about the blue shades?
ocean cloudy periwinkle sky arctic turquoise cornflower marine royal midnight light blue azul sapphire navy turkish blue capri bahama blue teal aqua tiffany blue bluestone jewel blue baby blue powder blue desert blue
WOW! Let's try purple.
lilac grape eggplant majestic violet regal lavender blue aubergine passion pansy orchid mauve
And let's not forget orange. I think this one will be the hardest to find 8 shades but I will try.
peach sunset coral cognac burnt orange cinnamon tangerine papaya tiger lily pumpkin rust
Success with orange, so moving on to yellow.
sunrise banana canary ivory maize buttercup gold sand citrus champagne cream
And just because I can, I will do brown
chocolate sable mocha bronze toffee coffee copper penny terra cotta palomino
So groom's give your bride a break when she is stressing over wedding colors. There are so many to choose from and trying to coordinate all the colors for gowns, tuxes, accessories, flowers and decorations can be exhausting.
If you need help, contact your local small bridal store for assistance. We love to help!
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
What do you expect from a blog?
During this October blogging challenge, I have spent some time looking at other blogs. Some have been helpful while others were a little confusing. I just stumbled upon a blog from a 20 year old about wedding gowns. From her very short bio, I don't think she is married but just loves wedding gowns. I also don't see any connection to the wedding gown industry but she did say she wants to be private. So after learning very little about the blogger, I look at her actual posts. Each post is exactly one picture. ONE PICTURE, nothing else. No writing, explaining, sharing, nothing. I am so puzzled. Then I notice the notes for each posts. They are incredible. Some posts have up to 40 notes. These notes range from praising comments to sharing the post to liking the post. And then I am more puzzled! How can a 20-something with no connection to the industry have such a popular blog? But it hits me, she is connected. I am sure she started with friends and relatives following her blog and has added many others. She also states that anyone who follows her, she will automatically follow them. I have said for some time, if you want to master social media or the internet, hire a teenager!
So here is my picture for today. Give me your thoughts. What do you like or dislike? What do you want to know about this gown? Unlike the young blogger showing beautiful gowns, I have the industry information to answer the questions.
And I will start using her rule, I will follow everyone who follows me! Thanks to those who have already taken the plunge and looking for many more followers!
So here is my picture for today. Give me your thoughts. What do you like or dislike? What do you want to know about this gown? Unlike the young blogger showing beautiful gowns, I have the industry information to answer the questions.
And I will start using her rule, I will follow everyone who follows me! Thanks to those who have already taken the plunge and looking for many more followers!
Sunday, October 13, 2013
Bridal School
If you are a bride-to-be or just thinking you will be one soon, you have probably watched "Say Yes to the Dress." Everyone has their favorite owner or consultant. Everyone remembers that one bride who made them cry and the one that made them furious! But whatever side you are on, you can agree that you learned something. So for a quick post, I have "stolen" some of their best material. If you go to the TLC website, you will find several articles they put together as "Bridal School."
The web address is http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/weddings/bridal-school.htm#mckpgn=fbtlc16 .
TLC has put together an excellent collection of photography with different style of gowns, rings and beauty tips. Then follow my blog posts for the next week showing how to create the look you want within the budget for your wedding.
The web address is http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/weddings/bridal-school.htm#mckpgn=fbtlc16 .
TLC has put together an excellent collection of photography with different style of gowns, rings and beauty tips. Then follow my blog posts for the next week showing how to create the look you want within the budget for your wedding.
Saturday, October 12, 2013
Wedding Budget
This is a touchy subject. No one really wants to be on a budget but most of us find it is a necessity. Therefore, make sure you discuss issues with all those involved with paying any of the bills for the wedding. If your parents are chipping in, find out how much and for what items. Also true for the groom's parents. Or if just the bride and groom are paying, discuss expectations for each item. The worst scenario is for someone to be surprised with an unexpected amount on the final payment.
Here are some general guidelines on what you will spend on a typical wedding. I use that term "typical" lightly, because I know they are all different and can vary greatly. But this is a good starting point for discussions.
Reception 38%
Honeymoon 14.3%
Rings 14.3%
Photography/Videography 9.5%
Miscellaneous 8%
Bridal Apparel 5.7%
Music 4.7%
Flowers 3.5%
Invitations 2%
*Miscellaneous includes such items as rehearsal party, attendant gifts, limos
In the past, at a traditional wedding, the bride's parents paid for the majority of the items. The groom's family only paid for the rehearsal dinner. The groom himself was expected to pay for the marriage license, the bride's rings, the honeymoon, flowers for the bride, mothers and boutonnieres and the ceremony officiant's fee.
Nowadays, things are much different. Costs may be shared equally one-third each between both sets of parents and the couple. The couple may pay for the entire wedding themselves. Or the family may offer to pay for certain parts of the wedding such as the bride's gown or the reception dinner.
Once everyone has agreed on a dollar amounts, begin the planning. But keep the budget in mind. The worst thing to do is to fall in love with an item that you cannot afford. And to help with putting a budget in perspective use the above percentages for a $10,000 wedding. I think in my area of Indiana many people would consider $10,000 very reasonable for a modest wedding. But 3.5% for flowers is only $350. I don't think this would pay for flowers for everyone in the wedding party and definitely not any extras for table decorations at the reception. The 5.7% for the bridal attire is $570. This could possibly cover the bride's gown but not many accessory items or the groom's attire.
Going the opposite direction, if you plan to spend $2000 on the wedding gown, your overall budget should be in the $35,000 range. Also consider if you have a large family with a large guest lists, the percent for the reception may need to be bigger. Then the percentages for the other items may need to shrink to keep within the budget.
It is so much to think about but so fun to do!! Happy Planning!!
Here are some general guidelines on what you will spend on a typical wedding. I use that term "typical" lightly, because I know they are all different and can vary greatly. But this is a good starting point for discussions.
Reception 38%
Honeymoon 14.3%
Rings 14.3%
Photography/Videography 9.5%
Miscellaneous 8%
Bridal Apparel 5.7%
Music 4.7%
Flowers 3.5%
Invitations 2%
*Miscellaneous includes such items as rehearsal party, attendant gifts, limos
In the past, at a traditional wedding, the bride's parents paid for the majority of the items. The groom's family only paid for the rehearsal dinner. The groom himself was expected to pay for the marriage license, the bride's rings, the honeymoon, flowers for the bride, mothers and boutonnieres and the ceremony officiant's fee.
Nowadays, things are much different. Costs may be shared equally one-third each between both sets of parents and the couple. The couple may pay for the entire wedding themselves. Or the family may offer to pay for certain parts of the wedding such as the bride's gown or the reception dinner.
Once everyone has agreed on a dollar amounts, begin the planning. But keep the budget in mind. The worst thing to do is to fall in love with an item that you cannot afford. And to help with putting a budget in perspective use the above percentages for a $10,000 wedding. I think in my area of Indiana many people would consider $10,000 very reasonable for a modest wedding. But 3.5% for flowers is only $350. I don't think this would pay for flowers for everyone in the wedding party and definitely not any extras for table decorations at the reception. The 5.7% for the bridal attire is $570. This could possibly cover the bride's gown but not many accessory items or the groom's attire.
Going the opposite direction, if you plan to spend $2000 on the wedding gown, your overall budget should be in the $35,000 range. Also consider if you have a large family with a large guest lists, the percent for the reception may need to be bigger. Then the percentages for the other items may need to shrink to keep within the budget.
It is so much to think about but so fun to do!! Happy Planning!!
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Bridal Timeline
I have covered this topic previously but still get the question often, "When should I order _______?" This could be a wedding gown, bridesmaid, tuxedo or any other item needed for the wedding.
In our fast-paced lives, we tend to do things at the last minute. But as we say in the bridal business, our gowns come on the slow boat from China! And the unrest in China manufacturing has created some changes for our business in the past 2 to 3 years. So here is my update for ordering wedding items.
Wedding Gowns
I would suggest ordering a wedding gown at least 8 months before the wedding. And it is NOT unreasonable to order 12 months before the wedding. When you order a gown from an independent bridal salon, you are placing an order to make a new gown especially for you. This is unlike most of the big box stores who simply call other stores to find a sample gown for you.
When you order 8 months before the wedding, the gown should arrive 4 months before the wear date. Alterations will be 4-6 weeks. Allowing you the last 2 months before the wedding to relax about your gowns and focus on the details that could not be handled in advance.
And we hate to say it, but sometimes accidents happen. Factories shut down, planes, trains and delivery trucks crash. So when we order plenty in advance, we can get replacements when accidents happen.
Bridesmaid Gowns
Generally, bridesmaids will not require as much time as bridal gowns. Therefore, I would suggest ordering no less than 4 months before the wedding. Again, 6 months is perfectly fine.
If you know you are ordering from a company with a quick ship program or short delivery time, you may wait until closer to the wear date. But remember that you are taking the risk, not your store.
Tuxedo Rentals
Because tuxedos are usually rentals, you are not waiting for a garment to be manufactured. They are already hanging in a warehouse and just need to be packaged and shipped to your retail store for pick up. This makes the order time much shorter for tuxes.
Tuxedo orders should be placed at least 6 weeks before the wedding. If you have an April, May or June wedding and will be competing with prom orders, place orders at least 8 weeks before the wedding. By placing orders, I mean that all the guys should have gone into the store, gotten measurements taken and paid a deposit for the tux.
Accessory Items
It is impossible to put a deadline on all the accessory items. Items that are engraved will require more time that those that are not.
Accessories for your wedding gown will not require lots of shipping time, but you will need to have them to do alterations. For example, I can get slips in 2 weeks. But if your alterations are being done 6 weeks before the wedding, the slip will need to be ordered 8-10 weeks before the wedding.
So here is a quick list of wedding items for reference. Items should be ordered at this time length before the wedding.
Wedding Gowns 8-12 months
Bridesmaids 4-6 months
Mothers 4-8 months
Flower girls 2-8 months
Invitations 6-7 months
Engraved Items 4-6 months
Tuxedo Rentals 2-3 months
Undergarments 2-4 months
Shoes 2-4 months
If you have a specific question, please leave a comment or give me a call at 866-920-3094. And if you don't have 8-12 months until the wedding, don't panic. See my previous post for quick weddings.
In our fast-paced lives, we tend to do things at the last minute. But as we say in the bridal business, our gowns come on the slow boat from China! And the unrest in China manufacturing has created some changes for our business in the past 2 to 3 years. So here is my update for ordering wedding items.
Wedding Gowns
I would suggest ordering a wedding gown at least 8 months before the wedding. And it is NOT unreasonable to order 12 months before the wedding. When you order a gown from an independent bridal salon, you are placing an order to make a new gown especially for you. This is unlike most of the big box stores who simply call other stores to find a sample gown for you.
When you order 8 months before the wedding, the gown should arrive 4 months before the wear date. Alterations will be 4-6 weeks. Allowing you the last 2 months before the wedding to relax about your gowns and focus on the details that could not be handled in advance.
And we hate to say it, but sometimes accidents happen. Factories shut down, planes, trains and delivery trucks crash. So when we order plenty in advance, we can get replacements when accidents happen.
Bridesmaid Gowns
Generally, bridesmaids will not require as much time as bridal gowns. Therefore, I would suggest ordering no less than 4 months before the wedding. Again, 6 months is perfectly fine.
If you know you are ordering from a company with a quick ship program or short delivery time, you may wait until closer to the wear date. But remember that you are taking the risk, not your store.
Tuxedo Rentals
Because tuxedos are usually rentals, you are not waiting for a garment to be manufactured. They are already hanging in a warehouse and just need to be packaged and shipped to your retail store for pick up. This makes the order time much shorter for tuxes.
Tuxedo orders should be placed at least 6 weeks before the wedding. If you have an April, May or June wedding and will be competing with prom orders, place orders at least 8 weeks before the wedding. By placing orders, I mean that all the guys should have gone into the store, gotten measurements taken and paid a deposit for the tux.
Accessory Items
It is impossible to put a deadline on all the accessory items. Items that are engraved will require more time that those that are not.
Accessories for your wedding gown will not require lots of shipping time, but you will need to have them to do alterations. For example, I can get slips in 2 weeks. But if your alterations are being done 6 weeks before the wedding, the slip will need to be ordered 8-10 weeks before the wedding.
So here is a quick list of wedding items for reference. Items should be ordered at this time length before the wedding.
Wedding Gowns 8-12 months
Bridesmaids 4-6 months
Mothers 4-8 months
Flower girls 2-8 months
Invitations 6-7 months
Engraved Items 4-6 months
Tuxedo Rentals 2-3 months
Undergarments 2-4 months
Shoes 2-4 months
If you have a specific question, please leave a comment or give me a call at 866-920-3094. And if you don't have 8-12 months until the wedding, don't panic. See my previous post for quick weddings.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
50 Classic First Dance Songs for Your Wedding
About one week ago, I started a 31 day blogging challenge. I thought this would be so easy. I have been blogging for some time. I know what to write about. I know how to write. I just need to be dedicated enough to do it everyday.
Well, easier said than done. In 8 days, I have created 4 blogs. Ok, I intended to take Sunday off, but the other days were just too full of activities to find the time to create a blog. Then our leader for the challenge, Lesa, gave us a great idea. When time is short, use the expertise of someone else to help you out.
So today, I am forwarding 50 Classic First Dance Songs. This is a great collection. Everyone in every age category should be able to find a song they love listed here.
Enjoy your time imagining you and your partner dancing to each of these beautiful songs. And if you don't have time for all of them at the wedding, use the remaining songs to celebrate anniversaries!
1. "At Last" (Etta James)
2. "As Time Goes By" (from Casablanca)
3. "Come Rain or Come Shine" (Ray Charles)
4. "Because You Loved Me" (Celine Dion)
5. "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" (Elton John)
6. "Can't Help Falling In Love" (Elvis Presley)
7. "Chances Are" (Johnny Mathis)
8. "Close To You" (The Carpenters)
9. "Could I Have This Dance?" (Anne Murray)
10. "Dream A Little Dream" (Mamas & the Papas)
11. "Embraceable You" (Nat King Cole)
12. "Endless Love" (Diana Ross & Lionel Richie)
13. "Fascination" (Jane Morgan)
14. "Fever" (Peggy Lee)
15. "Forever and Ever, Amen" (Randy Travis)
16. "Forever" (Kenny Loggins)
17. "From This Moment" (Shania Twain & Brian White)
18. "Grow Old With Me" (Mary Chapin Carpenter)
19. "Here And Now" (Luther Vandross)
20. "I Finally Found Someone" (Barbra Streisand & Bryan Adams)
21. "I Only Have Eyes For You" (The Flamingos)
22. "I Will" (The Beatles)
23. "If I Loved You" (from Carousel)
24. "In My Life" (The Beatles)
25. "It Had To Be You" (Harry Connick, Jr.)
26. "Lady In Red" (Chris DeBurgh)
27. "Love Theme To Romeo & Juliet" (from Zeffirelli's Romeo and Juliet)
28. "Marry Me" (Neil Diamond & Buffy Lawson)
29. "One Moment In Time" (Whitney Houston)
30. "Our Love Is Here To Stay" (Billie Holiday)
31. "So This Is Love" (James Ingram)
32. "Some Enchanted Evening" (from South Pacific)
33. "Something" (The Beatles)
34. "Somewhere" (from West Side Story)
35. "The Best Is Yet To Come" (Frank Sinatra)
36. "The Rose" (Bette Midler)
37. "Tonight I Celebrate My Love For You" (Roberta Flack & Peabo Bryson)
38. "True" (Spandau Ballet)
39. "Unforgettable" (Nat King Cole)
40. "Up Where We Belong" (Joe Cocker & Jennifer Warrens)
41. "Wedding Song (There Is Love)" (Captain & Tennille)
42. "Wedding Song (There is Love)" (Petula Clark)
43. "We've Got Tonight" (Bob Seger)
44. "We've Only Just Begun" (The Carpenters)
45. "When I Fall In Love" (Nat King Cole)
46. "Will You Marry Me?" (Vonda Shepard)
47. "Woman" (John Lennon)
48. "Wonderful World" (Louis Armstrong)
49. "You Are So Beautiful" (Joe Cocker)
50. "Your Song" (Elton John)
SOURCENew York City professional DJ Nicole Batchelor, who has spun for celebrity clients such as Steven Spielberg and Alec Baldwin, helped us compile this list. To book her, contact nbatchelor@nyc.rr.com.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Gown Silhouettes
Today's post will be a quick picture guide for different styles of gowns. Everyone wants to find the perfect gown for their body and wedding theme. The place to begin is with all the styles that are available.
Each style will look good on different body types. But the main thing to remember, is to be comfortable and confident on your wedding day.
The same options are available for bridesmaid or mother's gowns. You may want to consider different body styles if you have several bridesmaids who are shaped differently.
And finally, you may want to consider what is popular for the year. Although the following are trends for 2013, many of them will carry over to 2014. I remember seeing lots of these styles in Dallas and Chicago for the bridal markets. The only one that was not shown often was the corset bodice but is always a favorite for brides.
Each style will look good on different body types. But the main thing to remember, is to be comfortable and confident on your wedding day.
The same options are available for bridesmaid or mother's gowns. You may want to consider different body styles if you have several bridesmaids who are shaped differently.
And finally, you may want to consider what is popular for the year. Although the following are trends for 2013, many of them will carry over to 2014. I remember seeing lots of these styles in Dallas and Chicago for the bridal markets. The only one that was not shown often was the corset bodice but is always a favorite for brides.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Tuxedo VS Suit
While writing my last blog post, I realized that there may be some need to identify the difference between some of the items listed in the men's chart. So here goes!
We will start with the ultra formal. Pictured here is a full dress or tailcoat tuxedo. A tuxedo means it has satin lapels on the collar and a satin stripe down the side of each leg on the pants. Full dress coats are usually black, white or ivory and worn with matching pants.
The shirt is a wing-tip shirt which is different than a traditional business shirt with a lay down collar. The wing-tip allows the band of the bow tie to be seen around the neck. It is white or ivory.
Wing-tip shirts are traditionally worn with a bow tie but have recently been paired with a lay down collar shirt.
The tailcoat may be worn with a vest or cummerbund. White and black are the most formal but coordinating wedding colors may be selected.
Black shiny patent leather shoes will complete this look.
Pictured next is a traditional tuxedo. It still features the satin lapel and a stripe on the pants, but is cut like a traditional business suit.
These coats are available in a traditional, modern and slim cut to fit different body styles. They come in black, white, ivory, brown, navy and grey. They should be paired with matching pants.
This picture shows the newer lay down collar shirt. This is acceptable for a less formal wedding. It can be white, ivory or black. A traditional wing-tip shirt is usually worn for more formal occasions. The lay down shirt may be paired with a bow tie or the four-in-hand tie as shown.
The vest and tie may be black, white or a coordinating wedding color.
The pocket square in the left breast pocket, may be used with a boutonniere or flower on the jacket lapel.
Also shown in each picture are French cuffs. This means the cuff of the shirt is about 1/2 inch longer than the coat sleeve. It is also acceptable to have the coat to be slightly longer than the shirt. This is purely personal preference.
A suit looks very similar to a tuxedo but with no satin on the lapels or pants. It is paired with a lay down collar shirt of any color. A four-in hand tie as shown or a bow tie may be worn. Since most bow ties from tuxedo rental companies are shiny satin, you may want to consider purchasing a bow tie from a men's department to wear with a suit.
This picture again shows the French cuff at the sleeve.
A suit may be worn with a coordinating vest or without a vest.
A suit should be paired with a flat black or brown shoe not the traditional shiny leather for the tuxedo shoes.
Whatever your occasion, we can complete the right look for you. To help in your decision, consult the Jim's Formalwear Network. Their website at http://jimsformalwear.com has a great Tuxedo Builder to show you exactly what your choices will look like together.
The shirt is a wing-tip shirt which is different than a traditional business shirt with a lay down collar. The wing-tip allows the band of the bow tie to be seen around the neck. It is white or ivory.
Wing-tip shirts are traditionally worn with a bow tie but have recently been paired with a lay down collar shirt.
The tailcoat may be worn with a vest or cummerbund. White and black are the most formal but coordinating wedding colors may be selected.
Black shiny patent leather shoes will complete this look.
These coats are available in a traditional, modern and slim cut to fit different body styles. They come in black, white, ivory, brown, navy and grey. They should be paired with matching pants.
This picture shows the newer lay down collar shirt. This is acceptable for a less formal wedding. It can be white, ivory or black. A traditional wing-tip shirt is usually worn for more formal occasions. The lay down shirt may be paired with a bow tie or the four-in-hand tie as shown.
The vest and tie may be black, white or a coordinating wedding color.
The pocket square in the left breast pocket, may be used with a boutonniere or flower on the jacket lapel.
Also shown in each picture are French cuffs. This means the cuff of the shirt is about 1/2 inch longer than the coat sleeve. It is also acceptable to have the coat to be slightly longer than the shirt. This is purely personal preference.
 |
| Black Tuxedo with Camo accessories |
 |
| Grey Tuxedo |
 |
| Havana tan suit |
This picture again shows the French cuff at the sleeve.
A suit may be worn with a coordinating vest or without a vest.
A suit should be paired with a flat black or brown shoe not the traditional shiny leather for the tuxedo shoes.
 |
| Stephen Geoffrey midnight blue suit |
Whatever your occasion, we can complete the right look for you. To help in your decision, consult the Jim's Formalwear Network. Their website at http://jimsformalwear.com has a great Tuxedo Builder to show you exactly what your choices will look like together.
How does etiquette fit into my wedding theme?
Etiquette has been around for hundreds of years. Etiquette encompasses everything from what to wear to how to eat at a fancy dinner. And of course, there are several rules about what to do at a wedding. Since this is such a broad subject and can go on for pages, I will start with the questions that I hear most in the shop.
1. Who can wear white to a wedding?
Anyone can wear white at a wedding. The color white is a symbol of celebration, nothing else. Therefore most ministers or priest will wear white to a wedding. Likewise, any bride may wear white to a wedding. Even other attendants can wear white such as bridesmaids and groomsmen.
With that being said, ivory is the IN color. More ivory gowns have been sold in the past year than any other color. What does this mean? That ivory is usually a better color with most complexions. So if you agree that ivory is a better color for you than white, that is perfectly acceptable. Don't let anyone tell you that the color of your gown has anything to do with your lifestyle!
2. How should I word my invitations?
Invitation wording is based upon who is paying for the wedding. If the bride and groom are paying for the wedding with no help from parents, then the invitation should have only their names.
If the bride's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, then their names should be included on the invitation.
If the groom's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, then their names should be included on the invitation.
If both the bride and groom's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, they should all be included on the invitation.
That being said, who knew this before you read it? Probably not too many. I seriously doubt that guests will open the invitation and immediately think about who is paying for what at the wedding. I have also had many brides and grooms who wanted to include parent's names out of respect for them not because they were contributing to the wedding.
3. Is there a symbol for purity at a wedding?
Since we already covered the wearing of white and know that is not a symbol of purity, the next thing to look at is the veil. The veil is the only symbol of purity at the wedding. So technically a woman who is marrying for the second time, should not wear a veil. She may wear something in her hair like a tiara or flower but just not the veil.
And we know that we talk about equal sexes, but it rarely happen, so there is no symbol for the groom. I think maybe we should invent one. Any ideas of what we can have the groom do to show his purity?
But once again, this is not a commonly known rule about a veil. I have plenty of brides who admit they are not the purest but still wear a veil because that is the wedding look they want.
4. What should the women at the wedding wear?
Traditionally what to wear is divided into two times of the day. If a wedding is before 6 pm, the attire is different than weddings after 6 pm.
For weddings before 6 pm that are considered ultra-formal or formal, the bride and bridesmaids should wear long gowns. The mothers and flower girl should follow along with long gowns. If the invitations specify black tie, the guests should also wear long gowns. If not specified on the invitation, street length dresses may be worn by guests.
If the wedding is semi-formal, everyone may wear floor length (no trains) or tea length. The bridesmaids, mothers, flower girls and guests should follow the brides lead. If wearing long, others may wear long. If wearing tea length, then others should wear tea length or street length.
If the wedding is informal, short gowns or suits should be worn.
If the wedding is after 6 pm, there are no differences for the women. The changes are in the men's attire.
The best rule to remember is to take the lead from the bride or mother of the bride.
5. What should the men at the wedding wear?
Again the menswear depends upon the time of day but is actually more complicated than the women's attire. Here is a chart to help you out.
Before 6 After 6
Ultra Formal Cutaway coat, striped pants Full dress tailcoat, matching pants
(traditional wing-tip shirt, ascot and vest wing-tip shirt, bow tie
Ultra Formal Long or short tuxedo Long or short tuxedo
(contemporary) wing-tip shirt wing-tip shirt
Formal Stroller or waistcoat, striped Tuxedo with matching pants,
(traditional) pants, white shirt dress shirt, bow tie
Formal Formal tuxedo, dress shirt, Tuxedo, dress shirt, bow tie,
(contemporary) bow tie, vest vest
Semi-Formal Formal suit, white shirt Tuxedo or dinner jacket, dress shirt
(traditional) four-in-hand-tie bow tie, vest
Semi-Formal Dinner jacket or suit Dinner jacket or formal suit
(contemporary) shirt, vest, four-in-hand tie dress shirt, bow tie, vest
Informal Suit with any color shirt Formal suit, shirt
(traditional) four-in-hand tie four-in-hand tie
Informal Dinner jacket or suit Dinner jacket or formal suit, dress shirt
(contemporary) shirt, coordinating pants four-in-hand tie, vest
Now that you have read through all the do's and don'ts, let me add a HUGE asterisks.**** Always remember that it is YOUR wedding. The style of wedding gown, tuxedo, bridesmaid dresses or whatever that you choose, is exactly that: YOUR CHOICE! Etiquette has been around for hundreds of years and many changes have been made. Some more popular than others. And we also know that there are certain things that are done just to spite etiquette! So you decide upon the feel and look of your wedding. If you want to wear a veil for a third wedding, go for it. If you want your men to wear tuxes before 6pm, you won't be the only one. And I think it is perfectly fitting to add your parent's names to an invitation to honor them.
But on a cautionary note, remember that after your beautiful day, your pictures will be the only thing remaining. So make sure your decisions (like that tuxedo printed t-shirt for your groom) aren't regretted later.
1. Who can wear white to a wedding?
Anyone can wear white at a wedding. The color white is a symbol of celebration, nothing else. Therefore most ministers or priest will wear white to a wedding. Likewise, any bride may wear white to a wedding. Even other attendants can wear white such as bridesmaids and groomsmen.
With that being said, ivory is the IN color. More ivory gowns have been sold in the past year than any other color. What does this mean? That ivory is usually a better color with most complexions. So if you agree that ivory is a better color for you than white, that is perfectly acceptable. Don't let anyone tell you that the color of your gown has anything to do with your lifestyle!
 |
| PC Mary's Ivory Lace Gown |
Invitation wording is based upon who is paying for the wedding. If the bride and groom are paying for the wedding with no help from parents, then the invitation should have only their names.
If the bride's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, then their names should be included on the invitation.
If the groom's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, then their names should be included on the invitation.
If both the bride and groom's parents are helping to pay for the wedding, they should all be included on the invitation.
That being said, who knew this before you read it? Probably not too many. I seriously doubt that guests will open the invitation and immediately think about who is paying for what at the wedding. I have also had many brides and grooms who wanted to include parent's names out of respect for them not because they were contributing to the wedding.
3. Is there a symbol for purity at a wedding?
Since we already covered the wearing of white and know that is not a symbol of purity, the next thing to look at is the veil. The veil is the only symbol of purity at the wedding. So technically a woman who is marrying for the second time, should not wear a veil. She may wear something in her hair like a tiara or flower but just not the veil.
And we know that we talk about equal sexes, but it rarely happen, so there is no symbol for the groom. I think maybe we should invent one. Any ideas of what we can have the groom do to show his purity?
But once again, this is not a commonly known rule about a veil. I have plenty of brides who admit they are not the purest but still wear a veil because that is the wedding look they want.
4. What should the women at the wedding wear?
Traditionally what to wear is divided into two times of the day. If a wedding is before 6 pm, the attire is different than weddings after 6 pm.
For weddings before 6 pm that are considered ultra-formal or formal, the bride and bridesmaids should wear long gowns. The mothers and flower girl should follow along with long gowns. If the invitations specify black tie, the guests should also wear long gowns. If not specified on the invitation, street length dresses may be worn by guests.
If the wedding is semi-formal, everyone may wear floor length (no trains) or tea length. The bridesmaids, mothers, flower girls and guests should follow the brides lead. If wearing long, others may wear long. If wearing tea length, then others should wear tea length or street length.
If the wedding is informal, short gowns or suits should be worn.
If the wedding is after 6 pm, there are no differences for the women. The changes are in the men's attire. The best rule to remember is to take the lead from the bride or mother of the bride.
5. What should the men at the wedding wear?
Again the menswear depends upon the time of day but is actually more complicated than the women's attire. Here is a chart to help you out.
Before 6 After 6
Ultra Formal Cutaway coat, striped pants Full dress tailcoat, matching pants
(traditional wing-tip shirt, ascot and vest wing-tip shirt, bow tie
Ultra Formal Long or short tuxedo Long or short tuxedo
(contemporary) wing-tip shirt wing-tip shirt
Formal Stroller or waistcoat, striped Tuxedo with matching pants,
(traditional) pants, white shirt dress shirt, bow tie
Formal Formal tuxedo, dress shirt, Tuxedo, dress shirt, bow tie,
(contemporary) bow tie, vest vest
Semi-Formal Formal suit, white shirt Tuxedo or dinner jacket, dress shirt
(traditional) four-in-hand-tie bow tie, vest
Semi-Formal Dinner jacket or suit Dinner jacket or formal suit
(contemporary) shirt, vest, four-in-hand tie dress shirt, bow tie, vest
Informal Suit with any color shirt Formal suit, shirt
(traditional) four-in-hand tie four-in-hand tie
Informal Dinner jacket or suit Dinner jacket or formal suit, dress shirt
(contemporary) shirt, coordinating pants four-in-hand tie, vest
Now that you have read through all the do's and don'ts, let me add a HUGE asterisks.**** Always remember that it is YOUR wedding. The style of wedding gown, tuxedo, bridesmaid dresses or whatever that you choose, is exactly that: YOUR CHOICE! Etiquette has been around for hundreds of years and many changes have been made. Some more popular than others. And we also know that there are certain things that are done just to spite etiquette! So you decide upon the feel and look of your wedding. If you want to wear a veil for a third wedding, go for it. If you want your men to wear tuxes before 6pm, you won't be the only one. And I think it is perfectly fitting to add your parent's names to an invitation to honor them.
But on a cautionary note, remember that after your beautiful day, your pictures will be the only thing remaining. So make sure your decisions (like that tuxedo printed t-shirt for your groom) aren't regretted later.
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