Let's Hear It For The Boys

I know the WEDology Blog is pretty much geared towards women planning a wedding or event. But today I wanted to focus on an idea of jazzing the men up on wedding day.  When considering the options for the groom and groomsmen, there isn't a whole bunch you can do with a rented tuxedo outside of a distinctive boutonniere, vest, bow tie and/or tie.  But let me retract that statement and say...there is one more fun thing the groom can do to stand out on his wedding day.

Socks play an important roll for the groom and his men on wedding day.  In order to wear those shiny shoes, or whichever style is selected, it's imperative that men wear socks!  Now consider spicing them up with prints, words or a distinctive color for this once in a lifetime day!

 
Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Rush Productions)

Launch of Grooms Matter Too

Grooms Matter Too launches today and I'm so excited about this amazing company created by my dear friend, Lenee Valentine CEO and founder of Lenee' Valentine, Inc.   Grooms Matter Too provides services so that men can experience the same pampering experiences as brides as they prepare for their wedding day.  Equally important, the company takes the stress out of men's responsibilities.

Grooms Matter Too Caters Solely To Men On Their Big Day

Event designer Lenee' Valentine launches company that provides wedding preparation services to grooms and their groomsmen.

  

The company focuses solely on all of the details for the groom’s big day such as assisting with:  surprise wedding proposals, styling services, organizing groomsmen outings and parties, spa and grooming services, rehearsal dinners, transportation services, gifts for parents and guests, and the list goes on.  With a knack for creativity and personalization, Valentine will delve into the core of each man to discover his interests and passions and bring them to life in each service offered.

Research shows that young adults are delaying marriage now more than ever.  This means that many of the financial responsibilities are left on the couple moreso than their parents.  As such, both the bride and groom should have the same exciting experiences when planning their nuptials.  

The services provided by Grooms Matter Too can also be rendered for men who are planning birthdays, retirement, anniversaries, red carpet events, and more.

Congratulations Doll and you are spot on...Grooms Matter Too!!!

Until next time...WEDologize!

CREDITS:

Grooms Matter Too – Owner|Creative Director Lenee’ Valentine @groomsmattertoo

Photographer - Chi-Chi Agbim - Two Twenty  @chichi_220

Out-Of-State Wedding Party (Day #24)

I was just recently asked by one of my out-of-state clients, "How do we handle ordering the wedding parties attire when many of live in different locations?"

Then when it comes to ordering attire, the easiest thing to do is order gowns and tuxedos from a chain of wedding attire stores like David's Bridal and Men's Wearhouse.  That way your bridesmaids and groomsmen can try on the exact garment they will be purchasing and/or renting.  But when that is not possible, make sure the wedding party knows the price and payment plan of the store and when the garment has to be ordered.  Then inform them about visiting a cleaners or tailor to get their exact measurements to provide the store when they call in with their order.  The biggest factor to understand and stay on your wedding party about, gowns and suits will not be ordered until ALL of your wedding party members have placed their order.  

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - Rush Event Photography and Video Productions)

Groomsmen Sock Game

When considering the options for the groom and groomsmen, there isn't a whole bunch you can do with a rented tuxedo outside of a distinctive boutonniere, vest, bow tie and/or tie.  But let me retract that statement and say...there is one more fun thing the groom can do to stand out on his wedding day.

Socks play an important roll for the groom and his men on wedding day.  In order to wear those shiny shoes, or whichever style is selected, it's imperative that men wear socks!  Now consider spicing them up  with prints, words or a distinctive color for this once in a lifetime day!

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits - Rush Photography & Videography and Ollie Photography)

The Groom. The Super Hero.

I'm loving one of the newest trends of the groom and groomsmen having a "super hero" moment!  See, it doesn't always have to be about the bride! LOL!

Super hero cuff links based on the attendants personality...

...And the matching super hero t-shirt!

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Beth Rooney Photography)

Capturing The Groom Details

Photographers are so in-tune with capturing the fabulous details of the bride's attire - the wedding gown, shoes, accessories and jewelry.  But make sure they capture just the same amount of the detail of your husband-to-be's attire as well.  Having a second photographer makes this happen effortlessly, but should you not be able to afford this option, make sure the main photographer understands you want to the same amount of detail captured of your groom as well.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Ven Sherrod Photography; http://kellybramanphotography.com/)

Taking The Tuxedo Beyond Black

I was truly inspired more by the men's attire at the 2014 Golden Globes and the 2014 Grammy Awards than the gorgeous gowns the ladies were wearing.  What I saw plenty of were men in navy or green tuxedos!  I simply loved the idea over your classic black tux.  I can remember when chocolate was the new black and now you have grey taking over the male wedding party attire.  But consider steering away from the norm and pick a color that many are not wearing.  You just might like it.  Take a look...

Now the bolder look might not be for every male, or even their partner, but for the daring...go bold and shock 'em all! Or hey, the ladies some times change for the reception...why don't you?!

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits:  tailorablenco.tumblr.com; formaltailor.com; ebay.com)   

10 Ways to Include Your Groom!

Most people, including the groom, accept the fact that the wedding is mostly about the bride and what she wants on that special day. But I'm seeing more often the groom wanting to play a role in the planning of their wedding day. Heck "Groomzillas" have even surfaced in some cases! But if your groom isn't participating as much as you'd like...I've listed some ideas to make him feel special and join in the planning process.

Photo credit - www.tuxshirt.com

1. The funniest thing to see at a wedding reception is a Groom's Cake that reflects the groom's personality or hobby. Make sure to include his favorite cake flavor. I had a groom's cake for a construction worker/Bears fan and the cake was a blue and orange hammer. Love it!
2. Have a couples shower in which both the bride and groom are celebrated by family and friends.
3. Present a video at the reception with pictures, set the the groom's favorite music, of the groom's life leading up to wedding day.
4. I just had a bride do one of the most beautiful things I've seen in my 12 years as a planner. She wrote a poem for her groom and had it read aloud by one of her dear friends right before she walked down the aisle. I *heart* that idea!
5. If you are a dancer or singer, do a special tribute to your groom at the wedding reception.
6. When registering, include the groom and let him register for some of those fun man items!!
7. Get the groom a sentimental pre-wedding gift or a massage the eve of the wedding.
8. You both should work with the band or DJ to make sure some of the groom's favorite songs are played during the reception.
9. Have the groom control one aspect of the planning process (photography, entertainment, transportation, etc.).
10. ...and last but not least, invite him to all the planning meetings with your wedding planner even if he's unable to attend.

Until next time...WEDologize!

Useful Wedding Planning Blog Posts

I just concluded my last wedding & event for 2012!  I'm so very thankful for my Dejanae Events team, professional vendors, my loving clients and social media supporters for taking the time out of their day 3 times a week to read my blog!!!  Well today is a recap of some of the more informative blogs that have been written this year.  Check out the topic and click into the blog as they are sure to assist you with your wedding planning.  I'll be back on Wednesday with a few more :)

Once you have your WEDDING GOWN altered, this blog post shares some options on what to do with the scraps -  http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/04/what-to-do-with-dress-scraps.html

When selecting your WEDDING PARTY, make sure to let them know their roles. This blog is very helpful when it comes to those plaguing questions - http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/06/role-of-wedding-vips.html

When planning out the WEDDING CEREMONY, check out this blog post for the proper sequencing - http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/08/sequencing-wedding-ceremony.html

When planning your WEDDING REHEARSAL, make sure that you enjoy yourself, but also complete these tasks - http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/10/wedding-rehearsal-to-do-list.html

When selecting FLOWERS for your wedding ceremony and reception, make sure you armed with the basics presented in this blog - http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/04/flower-basics-101.html

If you have taken on the roll of stocking your RECEPTION BAR, check out this useful blog when determining quantity - http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/07/wedding-reception-bar-basics.html

You may or may not have a wedding planner (I hope you do :), make sure to pack your very own EMERGENCY KIT to avoid those mishaps on wedding day -  http://wedologize.blogspot.com/2012/04/its-wedding-emergency.html


Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Rush Event Photography and Video Productions)

The Language of Tuxedos

No matter how good the tuxedo looks on a hanger, just like the bride and bridesmaids, the groom and his attendants should select their formalwear based on style and comfort.  There also 6 keys points I'd like to bring to your attention about tuxedos and how "sexy" they can look on a man:

1. When you are getting fitted for your tux, it should fit comfortably at the neck and shoulders.  So make sure to sit and stand at the fitting as well as button and unbutton the jacket.
2. About 1/4 to 1/2 of the shirt's cuff should show below the jacket sleeve.
3. Same as the jacket, the pants should fit comfortably and button easily.  Make sure to sit in the pants during your fitting.
4. If wearing a vest, the buttons should line up with your jacket front and should button comfortably across the chest.
5. Consider renting shoes from the formalwear location, make sure to try the shoes on later in the day, like after work in case your feet have a tendency to swell.  It's better to have loose shoes than tight-fitting shoes.
6. Don't use clip-on ties!  If you are purchasing or renting a tie, make sure to try it on so that it fits sung around the collar.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit: gray tuxedo - www.ruffledblog.com; black tuxedo - www.weddingwire.com; tuxedo w/ purple tie - www.colincowieweddings.com; taupe tuxedo - www.weddingish.com)

The Role of Wedding VIPs

I spoke with one of my brides recently who eliminated a couple of women from her wedding party for "failure to act".  Basically, she didn't feel they were doing what needed to be done, and although I know she's been open with the ladies she selected to be in her wedding, do all involved really understand the roles they are to play?  Below is a sampling of the attendants duties.  And please know, everyone doesn't have to stand up for you on wedding day.  There are plenty of other things they can do on wedding day...but I'll save that conversation for another blog post :)

Maid of Honor (Single) or Matron of Honor (Married)

• Attending bridal gown fittings
• Keep bridesmaids on schedule prior to wedding day and especially on the BIG day
• Take charge of planning the bridal shower with the other bridesmaids
• Hold the bride's bouquet at the altar and fix her train and veil during the ceremony, and bustle her train at the reception

Best Man

• Drive the groom to the ceremony
• Hold the bride's ring during the ceremony
• Give first toast at the reception
• Distribute payments to vendors at the ceremony and/or reception

Bridesmaids

• Play hostess at any of the pre-wedding parties the couple may be having
• Order and pay for your own attire by order date
• Arrive to the ceremony before time to assist bride

Groomsmen

• Rent or purchase formalwear by requested date
• Help with pre-wedding tasks such as transportation
• Act as ushers if the couple does not have any on wedding day

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.dscphotobiz.com)