Author Archive

Good Fit vs Bad Fit

November 2nd, 2023 | Mens Attire 2nd, November at 8:36 AM

Good Fit vs Bad Fit


Shirt Sleeves & Collars should be the right size but pay attention to the fit itself.

Notice Coat Length & How it Fits Around the Middle.
Notice Coat Length & How it Fits Around the Middle.


Check out the Pant Length & how it slightly breaks on the right and looks neat!


Note the model’s figure is hidden until the fit is correct.

Pay attention to the details & you will look your best!
Pay attention to the details & you will look your best!

Quinceañera Tips and Advice

October 9th, 2023 | Blog 9th, October at 11:33 AM

quinc-tips-mc Once upon a not-so-long-ago time, I was a young girl about to cumplir quince, or turn 15. In my family’s Colombian culture, it wasn’t typical to celebrate with the extravagant party made famous by MTV. Instead, my fifteenth birthday was small and simple: friends and family attended a Mass held in my name and then came over for dinner. (But if we’re being honest, my family’s home cooking is always a big deal.)

But mine was just one way to do it. The ways people celebrate their “quinces” vary across the Hispanic board, and growing up in the cultural melting pot of Miami, Florida, I attended many different quinceañera festivities. Although each was unique and some much more elaborate than others, they all had the same underlying meaning: a young girl entering her womanhood.

In this letter to my almost-15-year-old self, I shed a little light on what it means to celebrate your “quince” and what memories you’ll hold close to your heart forever.

Inspired? Create and share by tagging @hallmarkstores.


Letter to my almost-15-year-old self

Dear Caro,

It’s me—I mean you—from eight years in the future. Your birthday is approaching fast, and by now, the word “quince” is appearing all over your dreams. You may not understand why it’s a big deal yet, but I’m here to tell you it all makes sense later. By that time, though, you may not remember all the important details. So keep your eyes open, little one, because this birthday will be special.

By now, you’ve been to your fair share of quinceañera parties, dinners, lunches, trips and anything that could be considered a celebration. Yes, those were fun, but you’re wondering what all the fuss is about. It feels like just another birthday, yet you hear your family and friends’ parents call it the “official crossing into womanhood.” Sounds a little mystifying…and slightly ambitious, seeing as you’re still a bit small to be a “woman.” (Spoiler: You’ll be barely 5-feet tall forever. But you’ll grow—or, um, learn—to like it.)

Like any other birthday, it does mean you’re growing up. This time, though, people will go out of their way to show you how proud they are of the almost-woman you’ve become. Of all the excitement you’ll feel, warm words you’ll hear and nice wishes you’ll receive on your birthday, here are some tips for a wonderful and unforgettable quinceañera night:

Just bust a move

Your mom taught you to dance shortly after you learned to walk. That’s why you love doing it so much! So, even though you’re celebrating at home, turn up the stereo and shake what your mama gave ya. Boys your age aren’t into dancing yet (and that won’t change much in the future), but don’t let that stop you. Mami and Mama Leo would love to dance with you, too. (Really, they’d love it.)

Take a moment to savor it all

Enjoy not just all your family’s delicious cooking, but everything. Make note of the loving words your family tells you and the work they all put in to make your night special. From the arepas and arroz con coco to the jokes and loud Spanglish chatter, soak it all in.

Remember your blessings

The gifts in your life are abundant; they surround you. At 15, you have little to worry about and so much to be thankful for. Take lots of pictures, keep all the cards, and write down your favorite parts of the night—you’ll thank yourself later.

Keep family on top

Family is the most important thing to you, which is why you love that they’re always around. Someday you’ll live far away and you won’t see them as much, but they’ll always be your biggest fans. And if you ever need to be reminded of how much you’re loved, you’ll just look to them and it will be clear. So on this birthday, make sure they all know how much you appreciate and love them.

Your quince will be amazing no matter what, so most importantly, have a blast. As you grow up, you’ll look back, cherish those memories, and remember how great it was to be an almost-woman quinceañera.

Much love,

The Older Caro

Honeymoon Planning?

September 21st, 2023 | Blog 21st, September at 11:09 AM

In the age of online booking sites, using a travel agent may feel like going the way of.In the age of online booking sites, using a travel agent may feel like going the way of.In the age of online booking sites, using a travel agent may feel like going the way of.

Rings The 4 C’s

September 21st, 2023 | Blog 21st, September at 7:30 AM

Many people getting married often choose diamond rings for their partners as aMany people getting married often choose diamond rings for their partners as aMany people getting married often choose diamond rings for their partners as a

Inside The Threads: The History of the Tuxedo

September 23rd, 2022 | Blog 23rd, September at 10:28 AM

Inside-The-Threads

The tuxedo, we all have an image of one stored in our heads somewhere. The costume has come to exude smooth operators, classy performers, and debonair socialites throughout the ages. In some circles, it’s practically required to own one or have a few on retainer. In others, it strikes fear into the heart of the common man. With multiple components, a slim fit, and a seeming pressure to conform, it’s often surprising that this dinner jacket completely revolutionized formalwear and even scandalized popular culture multiple times over.

The Tuxedo Gallery is here to explore the history of the tuxedo, how it has come to define men’s fashion, and how certain actors have continued the trend or bucked conventions. Buckle in, because Fairfield’s favorite tuxedo rental company is about to become your new historian for this blog.

The Prince of Wale’s Dinner Jacket

The tuxedo suit has a disputed origin story. Named for Tuxedo Park in New York, even the name is disputed, with claims that it comes from Algonquin, Lenape or Dutch roots.

Most accounts always mention Griswold Lorillard first wearing the tail-less costume during the Tuxedo Club’s Autumn Ball in 1886, when tailcoats, white vests, and white ties were still considered in vogue. The tales that Lorillard stole his father’s tuxedo in an attempt to upstage and scandalize the event. As far as pranks go, it certainly was an alleged trendsetter.

Nowadays, modern historians credit the first tuxedo to King Edward VII.

They didn’t call it a tuxedo in 1865, however. The then Prince of Wales commissioned a new jacket and matching pants from Henry Poole and Co., his favorite tailor on Savile Row in London. While designed without tails, Poole still intended the suit for the Prince to use as an alternative to the smoking jacket for entertaining guests during casual dinners. To this end, the satin lapel was added.

So how did the dinner jacket go from Savile Row to Tuxedo Park? The answer lies in James Brown Potter; the millionaire saw the Prince in his dinner jacket during an event in 1885 and was curious. The Prince referred Potter to the (now late) Henry Poole’s tailoring shop. Instead of Griswold Lorillard stealing the suit from his father, it was James Brown Potter touting his regal style.

The dinner jacket instantly became a success and tailors reported clients asking for a dinner jacket “in the style of the ones they make in Tuxedo.”

Dinner-Jacket

Edward VII, 1841-1910, he was the king of the United Kingdom and the British dominions and Emperor of India from 1901 to 1910, vintage line drawing or engraving illustration

Hollywood: The Tuxedo’s Breakout Role

After a sensational rise to prominence in the elite circles of New York magnates and socialites, the history of the tuxedo almost becomes a history of the film industry. During the early 1900s, formal wear was split between tuxedos and the classic tailcoat. By the Roaring Twenties, however, the tuxedo fell into disuse but saw a rise in popularity after the 1930s.

While countless actors would come to don the costume, its most famous wearer during the Great Depression was none other than Marlene Dietrich. She would don the auspicious outfit in Josef von Sternberg’s Morocco. Subverting gender norms, Dietrich took style tips from both men and women and rocked the suit on film and in public. Just chalk this as another reason to love this Golden Age icon.

Also, during the 1930s, the traditional tuxedo received a shakeup. Midnight blue tuxedos started to rival the more traditional black. In 1935 the total number of mills producing blue tuxedo wool outnumbered those producing black. By the 1940s, white tuxedos also became a fashion statement (as well as just being far more comfortable in warmer climates). Actors like Fred Astaire, Humphrey Bogart, Cary Grant, and more contributed to making the tuxedo into an image of class.

Bogart’s Rat Pack practically endorsed the tuxedo industry from 1950 onwards. But that was all about to change during the 1960s when a new tuxedo icon graced the silver screen: James Bond.

Changing Times, Changing Tuxedos

Changing-Times,-Changing-Tuxedos

Beautiful man, groom posing and preparing for wedding.
First portrayed by Sean Connery, the character is perhaps best known for infiltrating high-rolling society to weed out international crimes. What better way than the tuxedo? Yet, that’s not the story that we want to mention. In fact, this story is about George Lazenby. More known for his modeling career, Lazenby was selected to succeed Connery by impressing Eon Studios boss Albert Broccoli in a single interview.

His secret? A fancy watch and a good tux. Turns out good style never goes out of style.

At the same time that James Bond was catching international criminals in style, however, fashion moguls were attempting to keep the dinner jacket contemporary. Tuxedos came to reflect the times they were created. Yves Saint Laurent reignited debates about gender norms by reinventing the style in his Fall/Winter Pop Art collection of 1966. Renamed “Le Smoking,” this brand of tuxedo was marketed to and for women.

Among other controversies, a most remarkable incident occurred when Nan Kempner was refused entry into Le Côte Basque club in New York City on the grounds that women could not wear pants. In an act of defiance, Kempner took off the pants and proceeded inside with just the blazer. “La plus chic du monde,” as Saint Laurent called her, continued one of the core trends in the history of the tuxedo: rebellion.

In the 1970s, tuxedo styles were blown wide open with ruffled collars, lace shirts, bellbottom pants, big floppy bowties and an explosion of colors. All of it reflected a departure from the conservative style of the 1950s and early 1960s and represented changes in American values.

The Modern Era: Bringing Back The Tux

The revolution seemed destined not to last, however. Modern formal dress wear returned to more conservative styling in the 1980s as a result of the rampant experimentation from the preceding decade plus. In formal circles, the tux slowly fell out in favor of business suits. The 1990s and early 2000s in particular were a style desert.

Take a look at any NBA Draft class from the period, and one will find nothing but oversized business suits on already big bodies. But that’s not all she wrote re the tuxedo.

The classic tux entered a renaissance during the mid-2000s when prestige dramas set during famous periods in the history of the tuxedo became the model for primetime television and Hollywood blockbusters. TV series like AMC’s Mad Men and Baz Luhrmann’s Great Gatsby featured leading men like Jon Hamm and Leonardo DiCaprio respectively in the illustrious dinner jackets. Daniel Craig’s critically acclaimed turn at the prestigious James Bond role also confirmed the return of the tuxedo.

With the new era came new aesthetic ideas. While tuxedos maintain midnight blue and black, suits today are not just limited to the classic colours but have expanded to include purples, burgundies, greens, and more. Once again we turn to the latest NBA Draft, where young talents consistently coated themselves in fabulous colors, trimmings, and accessories.

Nowadays it seems the tuxedo will never go out of style, but that’s always the case with fashion: what’s old is new as trends continue to develop, redevelop and then redevelop again.

No Matter What’s in Style, The Tuxedo Gallery is Here!

The history lesson is over! So let’s go right to it: if history has proven one thing, it’s that the tuxedo can be customized to your style. It’s less about the colors and the pants trim and more about maintaining the core pieces of a tuxedo. From there you can style and accessorize as need be. But if you’re not ready to splurge on a suit, that’s where The Tuxedo Gallery of Santa Rosa comes in.

We have served residents of communities like Fairfield in need of tuxedo rental for over 50 years. Our selection goes through time to bring you the best of the best. Find your inner style icon at the Tuxedo Gallery, be it in-store, online, or via the phone. Contact us today!

Why to Use a Tuxedo Rental Service

August 15th, 2022 | Blog 15th, August at 11:12 AM

Why to Use a Tuxedo Rental Service
As much as we look forward to special occasions, we all know how stressful it can be to prepare for them. Especially when you need to worry about formal wear! Whether you’re getting married or going to a formal occasion for the first time, it can be tough to know where to start. From material to lapel types to the color of your tuxedo, there are many moving parts to tuxedo fashions; for a newcomer, it’s overwhelming. Luckily, when you go to tuxedo rental stores, you can chat with tuxedo experts and learn everything you need to know. In this post, we’ll go over just a few benefits of using tuxedo rental services.

Expert Advice

Choosing the right tuxedo is essential for making a good impression at formal events. While it may be tempting to simply rent the first tuxedo you see, it is worth taking the time to consult with an expert on tuxedos. An experienced tailor can help you find a tuxedo that fits and flatters your body type.

They can also offer advice on which style of tuxedo will be most appropriate for the event you are attending. On top of this, a tuxedo expert can help you color-coordinate with the rest of your group to give you a unified look. With their assistance, you can be confident that you will look your best on your big night.

Expert stylists can also advise you on accessories to wear with your tux. It’s an excellent way to add a bit of personal style to your look!

Expert-Advice

Your Questions Answered

Ever wondered about the difference between a suit and a tux? Not sure what to wear to your next special event? Don’t know the difference between white and black tie attire? Professional stylists know the answers to all the formalwear questions you could have. With a team of stylists on hand, rest assured you’ll learn everything you need to make an informed buying decision by the time they’re done.

Quick Turnaround

In some cases, a tuxedo rental service can get you a tuxedo the same day you show up to be fitted. If you visit a store with an on-site inventory, you could walk away with the perfect look.

When you visit a store with an on-site inventory, you can usually be fitted and walk away with your tuxedo the same day. This is an excellent option if you’re attending a last-minute event or if you’re not sure what style of tuxedo you want. Naturally, you’ll get a more personalized fit if you plan ahead – but if that’s not possible, you can still look great for your upcoming event.

Cost Savings

Tuxedos are notoriously expensive to purchase, and unless you plan on wearing one on a regular basis, it doesn’t make financial sense to invest in one. Renting a tuxedo is also convenient if you need formal wear for a specific event or occasion. Rather than having to store and maintain a tuxedo, you can simply return it after the event is over. On top of that, you won’t have to pay to maintain it over time. No need to pay for dry cleaning over and over!

If you’re worried about not being able to find the perfect fit, most rental companies offer a wide range of sizes to choose from. So whether you’re attending a wedding or a black-tie event, renting a tuxedo can be the smartest way to go.

The Tuxedo Gallery has the best selection of tuxedos in town, and with an on-site inventory, we can offer the best price and flexibility on orders. We have hundreds of tuxedos in stock, from classic black to modern white, and our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect fit for your event. Because of our on-site inventory, we can offer the best price and flexibility on orders, ensuring you’re getting the best value for your purchase.

Come to The Tuxedo Gallery!

We’ve been in business for over 45 years, so we know a thing or two about tuxedos! We have the largest in-stock, up-to-date selection of tuxedo options in town, and we’re always happy to help you find the perfect tuxedo for your event. Plus, our same-day service (when possible) allows you to get your tuxedo rental quickly and easily. And our best prices are guaranteed, meaning you can shop with confidence and the knowledge that you’re getting the best deal possible.

The Tuxedo Gallery is excited to offer the latest in tuxedo fashion. Our trained style experts have carefully selected the latest styles and accessories to create a look that is just right for you. Whether you are looking for a classic black tuxedo or a more modern style, we have something to suit your taste. So come on down to The Tuxedo Gallery and let us help you find the perfect look for your next event.

How to Find the Right Tuxedo for Your Event

May 31st, 2022 | Blog 31st, May at 7:45 AM

How to Find the Right Tuxedo for Your Event
So you’ve got a big event coming up, and you need to find tuxedo rental services. How do you go about finding the right tux? For many men, renting a tuxedo is the best way to ensure they look their best for a formal event. However, with so many different styles and options for tuxedos, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are a few tips to help you find the right tuxedo for future events.

Time and Location of Event

When choosing what to wear to a daytime wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to consider the time of year and the location of the wedding. If it’s a summer wedding outdoors, you’ll want to dress accordingly in lighter, more breathable fabrics. For a winter wedding indoors, you can opt for richer, heavier fabrics.

It’s also important to consider the formality of the event. A daytime wedding is generally less formal than an evening wedding, so you can get away with a slightly more casual look. Daytime tuxedo and suit choices might include brown, tan, ivory with brown trousers or maybe a white jacket with black trousers. It’s also alright to wear traditional black tuxedos for a daytime wedding.

Style and Fit of Tuxedo

When it comes to formal wear, there are two broad categories: classic and modern. If you’re unsure which look you prefer, it can be helpful to take a closer look at the two styles. Classic tuxedos tend to have a more formal look, with clean lines and a simple silhouette. Modern tuxedos, on the other hand, often incorporate new trends and design elements. This might include a slim cut, unique detailing, or bold colors.

Ultimately, the choice between a classic and modern tuxedo is a matter of personal preference and the dress attire of the event. If you’re looking for something that will never go out of style, a classic tuxedo is probably the way to go. However, if you’re interested in making a fashion statement, a modern tuxedo might be more your speed. Whichever route you choose, make sure to find a tuxedo that fits your personal aesthetic just as much as the event’s style guidelines.

Regardless, a tuxedo should be comfortable and flattering, so make sure to try on several different styles before making your final decision. The style you choose should also be appropriate for your event. For example, a black-tie event has a much more rigid set of expectations than a summer wedding. No matter what the occasion, there’s a tuxedo out there that’s perfect for you. If you’re not sure which look best suits your event and your style, feel free to ask an expert.

Style-and-Fit-of-Tuxedo

Colors and Accessories

If the event is being held during the daytime, it’s generally appropriate to wear a light-colored tuxedo, but traditional black works just as often. For evening events, a dark tuxedo is usually best. And don’t forget the accessories! A well-chosen tie or cummerbund can really make your tuxedo stand out. By following these simple tips, you’ll be sure to look your best at your next formal event.

When it comes to wedding tuxedos, there are a few things to keep in mind. For evening weddings, it’s typically best to go with a dark suit or tuxedo. Black, navy, gray, and charcoal are all popular choices. And if you’re not sure what will work best for the temperature, be sure to ask your tuxedo shop about tuxedos or suits that work better for hot or cool temperatures. Accessories are also important. A tie, tuxedo vest, and a well-pressed dress shirt can make all the difference. And don’t forget about your shoes! A nice pair of dress shoes will complete your look and help you feel confident.

Check for Comfort!

When it comes to formalwear, the fit is everything. Nobody wants to spend an evening tugging at their clothes or struggling to breathe. That’s why it’s essential to take the time to find a tuxedo that fits well. It should be comfortable enough to wear all night without being so loose that it looks sloppy. The jacket should fit snugly – though not tight – in the shoulders, and the pants should sit comfortably at the waist. Pay attention to the details, like sleeve length, pant length, and even jacket length. There’s a lot to remember, so don’t be afraid to get a little help and advice from an experienced formalwear consultant. A few simple alterations can make all the difference in the world.

So when you’re shopping for a tuxedo, remember: it’s not just about style; it’s about comfort, too.

Come Check Out The Tuxedo Gallery!

At our shop, you’ll be able to find the perfect tuxedo or suit for any formal occasion. We carry a wide range of styles, so you’re sure to find something you love. And if you’re unsure what to choose, our formal wear specialists can help you pick the perfect look. With exceptional customer service and a broad selection of styles, we ensure everyone leaves happy and looking their best.

Our staff know all about the latest trends and can advise you about traditions and customs for any tuxedo or suit. Plus, they can also guide you in picking colors that go with the overall theme of your event. So whether you’re looking for a classic black tuxedo, a trendy new style, or you don’t even know where to start, our tuxedo rental services can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Let’s get you looking your very best for your upcoming special event; take a look around our site and contact us today!

How to Accessorize Your Tuxedo

May 22nd, 2022 | Blog 22nd, May at 9:10 AM

How to Accessorize Your Tuxedo
So you’re thinking about color coordinating your tuxedo with your accessories? It’s a great idea! A tuxedo is a classic piece of formal wear that can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. While a tuxedo may seem like a fairly uniform outfit, there are actually many accessories that you can wear with it to create a variety of looks. No matter your style, plenty of accessories can help you make the perfect tuxedo look. Next time you’re in the market for tuxedo rental, here are a few ways to spruce up your look:

Vest

When choosing a vest to wear with your tuxedo, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to select a color that complements the rest of your outfit. Black and white are classic choices, but other colors can work well too. One thing to avoid is wearing a color that clashes with your tuxedo, as this will make you stand out for the wrong reasons.

If it’s summertime, chances are you’ll want to go for lighter colors. On the other hand, darker hues will be more flattering in winter. It’s also important to choose accessories that match the event’s formality. For black-tie affairs, black and white are the safest choices. For less-formal events, though, your only limit is the dress code.

Shoes

Don’t forget to consider your shoes. For black-tie events, black is the only option; however, for less formal occasions, you can get a little creative. A pair of black dress shoes will always look classic, but if you want to add a little more style, opt for a pair of patent leather shoes in a deep shade of burgundy or blue. Depending on your event’s dress code and color scheme, you can get even more creative with your shoes.

Color isn’t the only thing to keep in mind when it comes to shoes – the material matters too. Depending on the event, you might need to invest in some nice patent-leather shoes. This naturally shiny material is a staple of extra-formal events.

Tie

Bow ties are typically associated with tuxedos, but a nice necktie is also acceptable in many contexts. Depending on your role in the formal event and the attire of the other guests, a necktie may be perfect. When it comes to a tuxedo, you can’t go wrong with a bowtie. Bow ties come in an incredible range of colors and patterns, so it is easy to find one that suits your personal taste.

A black or white necktie is always a safe bet if you’re going for a classic look. Try a patterned tie in a dark color for a more modern look. And if you really want to make a statement, go for a bright hue like red or blue. Whatever style you choose, make sure your tie complements the rest of your outfit and fits with the attire of the other guests. With the right necktie, you’ll be sure to turn heads at your next formal event.

Tie

Cummerbund

A well-chosen cummerbund can add a pop of color and help to create a streamlined silhouette. They have gone in and out of fashion over the years, and depending on the level of formality you need, they may or may not be necessary. If it fits with your event’s dress code, though, it’s an idea worth considering. You don’t want to stick out at a formal event, but it can add a nice personal touch to your outfit.

Pocket Square

Finally, don’t forget the pocket square! It may seem like a little thing, but This is an easy way to add a pop of color or pattern to your look. Go for something that coordinates with your shirt or tie, or choose a contrasting color for a more daring approach. A pocket square is another simple way to add a touch of personality, and you can use it to tie the whole look together. Match it to your vest, dress shirt, or shoes for a unified look.

Other Things to Consider

When you’re planning your outfit for a formal event, there’s more to keep in mind than which accessories to wear! Not only do you need to adhere to a dress code – even the time of day or night when the event takes place will dictate what you wear. For daytime tuxedos, color choices include brown, tan, ivory, or black. You can expect dark colors like black, navy, or charcoal tuxedos for evening events.

In addition to the established dress code, think about your personal style. If you tend to dress on the more conservative side, then you might want to steer clear of wilder color schemes. But if you’re known for being a trendsetter, go ahead and have fun with it!

Check with your event organizer if you’re unsure whether your chosen outfit will fit the criteria. On the other hand, if it’s your event – the sky’s the limit. Whatever colors and accessories you choose, remember that the important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in your look. If you do that, you’re sure to rock whatever outfit you choose.

Visit The Tuxedo Gallery!

When you need tuxedo rental services, we’re there to help. We have a wide selection of tuxedo styles to suit any formal event. Special occasions should be all about the day and the people you care about; let us worry about getting your outfit together. Whether you know exactly what you need or you don’t even know which color to wear, our team can get you the right outfit for any special event. An excellent customer experience is always our ultimate goal, and with our on-site inventory, we can get you in and out quickly with the best of today’s tuxedo fashions. Take a look around our site, give us a call, or stop by today!

Your Wedding Speech Tips

April 23rd, 2019 | Blog 23rd, April at 10:25 AM

Your Wedding Speech Tips

Wedding-Speech

Wedding Speech

This is a simple guide to making your wedding speech.
It answers some of the most frequently asked questions,
and gives you some tips on making it as easy as it can be.

How do I Stop My Knees from Shaking?

I won’t tell you that you won’t get nervous, because the plain fact is, you probably will. But you should know this: most people do. In fact, if there’s no adrenaline, it probably won’t be much of a speech. The important thing is to keep it in perspective. Just use these tips, and you’ll find that there’s nothing to worry about.

For starters, remember that you’re not taking an exam; you’re talking to your friends. Your friends and family are the warmest audience you’ll ever have. They’ve come to your wedding, and they’re on your side. Think of it as a bigger dinner party than usual – and it’s your turn to tell a story. Just relax and remember how comfortable you would be back at the dinner party – then go ahead and tell your story.

Here’s another tip. It’s the waiting that’s more likely to make you nervous. Once you’re on your feet, and you’ve started talking, as long as you know what you’re going to say, it’s suddenly a whole lot more fun. So remind yourself of that as you’re sitting and waiting, and make it easier by repeating your first line to yourself. That way when you get to your feet, and the room goes silent, you won’t suddenly freeze. Instead, you’ll just say that line you’ve been repeating to yourself over and over. And with that out of the way, you’ll find the rest just follows.
What is All the Rules I Need to Know?

The usual routine is this:

  • A welcome by the Master of Ceremonies who introduces a
  • Friend of the family or close friend of the couple, who makes a speech leading up to a toast to the bride and groom
  • Followed by a speech in reply by the Groom, or Bride, or both, who thank everyone who has helped organize the wedding, usually ending with a toast to the Bridesmaids,
  • Who have toasts made on their behalf by the Best Man who then makes a toast to the hosts
  • Who might or might not be the Bride’s Mother or Father or both who reply.

But you don’t have to do any of that. It’s all a question of saying the things that matter to you and having the people who matter to you involved. Choose the people who you would like to say something to, decide who should be recognized and thanked, and then work out an order that suits you best.

It’s always a good idea to have a Master of Ceremonies because they can keep it all in order, and you really should have someone to introduce all the speakers. But apart from that, choose what seems right for you.

One of the ways you can make it particularly interesting is to make some unconventional toasts. For example, each speaker could choose a year that they think is particularly appropriate to toast. (For example “1976, because that was the year that…”). By taking this approach, you give people the chance to think about things in an original way, and have more of a chance of steering away from making speeches that recite all the usual platitudes.
How Should I Prepare?

Write a speech to practice as soon as you can. That’ll give you more time to hear how it sounds, and adjust it so it sounds like your usual style of speaking rather than your usual style of writing. And, more importantly, it’ll make you so familiar with the speech that by the time you stand up, you’ll know just what you want to say.

Once you have it written, practice whenever you can – in the car, in the shower. The more you prepare, the more confident you’ll be.

When is the Best Time for Speeches?

You can have the speeches at any stage you like, but generally, they tend to be most successful before you eat, and after people have had some time to mix and drink.
What Else do I Need to Know?

Be yourself, and speak your mind. This is a chance to say some things that mean a lot to you about people you care about, in front of all your friends and family. That’s not a chance people get very often, so make the most of it.

Categories For Interviews

April 23rd, 2019 | Blog 23rd, April at 10:05 AM

Levels of Formality: The Five Categories for Interviews

Listed by #artofmanliness written by Antonio

  • Strict Business Dress
  • Business Dress
  • Business Casual
  • Casual
  • Work Clothes

When You Should Interview in Strict Business Dress

If you’re interviewing for a job that requires you to wear a business suit every day, the only way to dress more formally for the interview is to wear a business suit really well, with perfectly executed details. Typically you dress this sharply when you’re applying in industries that already have high standards of presentation:

  • Prominent law firms
  • Most banking and financial positions
  • Executive roles
  • High-level political positions

The common thread here is jobs for powerful people. If everyone you’ll be working with wears suits already, your suit needs to impress.

Elements of Strict Business Dress

There’s no room for error and very little for personal expression when you’re trying to impress a well-dressed employer. Stick to the conservative interpretation of business clothing:

  • The Suit: Worsted wool in either dark navy blue or dark charcoal gray with no patterning. Single-breasted jacket. Tailored fit, if possible; if you can’t afford custom clothing at least have your ready-to-wear suit adjusted for your measurements by a tailor.
  • The Shirt: Plain white with a spread or point (not button-down) collar. Sharp collar points (use stays or starch or both), smooth front, no wrinkles; tailored fit if possible.
  • The Shoes: Plain black oxford balmorals, well-shined. No alternatives. Socks should match the color of the trouser leg, i.e. charcoal gray socks with a charcoal gray suit.
  • The Necktie: Conservative color and pattern – nothing bright or eye-catching. Long enough that the tip touches the belt/trouser waist, with no shirt showing in between, even when moving. Centered, symmetrical knot with a small dimple in the tie just below it.
  • The Accents: Plain black leather belt with a small metal buckle (or dark-colored suspenders if no belt loops are present). White pocket square, crisply folded (point or horizontal style) in the jacket breast pocket. Simple metal or black leather band watch; any metal should match the belt buckle.

Because there’s very little room for personal expression at this level of formality, the details matter more than they will in situations where each applicant is more varied. Everything needs to be crisply pressed, sharp-edged, and very neat, and the fit of your clothing should be as close as possible.

Interviews requiring a strict business outfit are rare and usually high-stakes. You’re playing in the big leagues at this point. Don’t spare time or expense in getting yourself ready. For the kind of salaries involved in any job like that, it’s false economy to stint on your preparation.

Read more on dressing for interviews: https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-to-dress-for-job-interview/