Grooms, Here Are 5 Proactive Steps You Can Take to Prep Yourself for Your Wedding

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Whoa! Where did the time go? It seems like only yesterday when you proposed, but the wedding is coming up fast! Things like this sneak up on you, so it’s important to be a step ahead. Luckily, we’re here to help with five proactive steps you can take to prep yourself for your wedding.

Step One: Get Cleaned Up

Think about your car. While a trip through the car wash is fine for driving around town, for special occasions you want it detailed. That’s exactly how you should think about getting cleaned up for your wedding.

First, begin with your tux. Think about how you want to look and feel when you’re watching her come down the aisle. Think about what cuts and colors you prefer, then communicate with your bride. She will likely have strong opinions about what you should and should not wear. Try to to be sensitive to her opinions, but if you have strong preferences, you should make them known. Make compromises if necessary so that your outfit is more in line with her vision. It might be a good idea to bring her with you when you go shopping so that you can stay on the same page.

Second, think about your skin. Remember, unlike your fiance, you probably won’t be wearing a pound of makeup on your wedding day—so it’s important to start a skincare routine early in order to prevent breakouts. As far in advance of the wedding as possible, establish a skincare routine. We’re not saying you have to go get spa treatments; a standard skincare routine should just include a cleanser and a toner to cleanse your skin, followed by a moisturizer and sunscreen to protect it. If you’re worried about acne or excessively dry skin, visit a dermatologist for a consultation and treatment recommendations.

Third, evaluate your smile. There will be a million photographs taken on your wedding day, and you will probably be smiling in most of them. If you feel self-conscious about yellow or stained teeth, you should consider whitening them. Most dentists have a range of whitening treatments, such as take-home tray whitening. Rydel Family Dental says that when you get tray whitening, “An impression of your teeth will be taken to create a customized clear tray that you will wear to whiten your teeth. Within a few days your trays will be ready to be picked up.” You apply bleaching gel to these trays, wear them 30-60 minutes up to twice a day, and presto! You have perfectly white teeth for your wedding. Your bride is sure to be impressed.

It’s the little things like this that will make you shine on your big day, and if you rent a tux, take care of your skin, and get your teeth whitened, you will definitely be shining in all your photographs.

Step Two: Do Some Manscaping

Men are hairy. It’s a fact of life. But before your wedding, you should do something to get your hair under control. Shave or trim any body hair that needs it, taking a long look at areas that your bride will enjoy after the wedding. Also, look at getting hair and beard treatments that will leave your mane looking its best. When it comes to getting a haircut, stick with something you are familiar with; get a fresh trim about a week before the wedding, and ask your stylist for product recommendations that will help you style it perfectly.  

Step Three: Maintain Your Weight

It will amaze you how different you look in a perfectly fitted tux, but it will look even better if you’re taking care of your body in the months before the wedding. Be proactive about eating a (mostly) healthy diet in the months leading up to the wedding, and establish an exercise routine. There are tons of online resources at your disposal, and some don’t even require access to a gym. But if you do have access to a gym, utilize the weights and the treadmill. You’ll be able to feel the difference within only a week or two of working out, and your bride is sure to notice the difference on the honeymoon. If you have trouble finding the time or motivation to exercise, consider this advice from Weddingbee: “The best way to find success is to find a workout plan that you like and have someone commit to doing it with you. (And who’s a better workout partner than your own future spouse?)”

Step Four: Study The Ceremony

We’ve all seen weddings in the movies. The groom’s job is to say “I do,” and kiss the bride. Simple, right? Maybe not. There are a variety of different religious and cultural traditions that can change the ceremony tremendously. Maybe your bride wants to light a unity candle, or create a time capsule or perform some other wedding ritual. Make sure you’re not caught off guard. Study up before the big day, so you know what’s going to happen. Communicate with your bride about the details of the ceremony, and make sure you know the schedule of events.

Step Five: Relax

Stress is one of those things that shows, no matter how much you try to hide it. Getting ready for your wedding will take a toll on you. Family, friends, and your fiancé will all be pulling at you with their own “to-do” lists. Prioritize yourself and your bride first. Do all that you can to support her, even if that may sometimes mean displeasing others. In the final week before your wedding, make sure to get plenty of sleep. Make sure you take the time to relax and get the rest you need so when the big day finally arrives, you can cheerfully celebrate your future with your bride!

 

Dress Codes Defined

/2 Comments/in , , /by

G-Alexander-Midnight-Blue-Tuxedo

You’ve just been invited to a wedding, party, or business event. Here’s a handy guide to help you decide what to wear when the dress code is…

WHITE TIE – The most formal dress code, typically reserved for events such as state dinners or a debutante ball

• Women: Wear a formal, floor-length evening gown. Go all out with your most dramatic shoes and jewelry.

• Men: Wear a tuxedo, a long black jacket with tails, a white wing-collared shirt, a white vest, a white bow tie, and black patent-leather shoes. White or gray gloves are appropriate.

BLACK TIE – Less dressy than white tie, but still pretty formal, and usually reserved for evening affairs

• Women: Wear a floor-length evening gown, a knee-length dress with heels, or your dressiest black dress. Dressy separates, like a knee-length skirt and shell set, also work.

• Men: Wear a tuxedo, a black bow tie, a black cummerbund or vest, and black patent-leather shoes. In the summer or on a cruise, a white dinner jacket with black tuxedo pants would be appropriate, along with the rest of the black-tie wardrobe.

CREATIVE BLACK TIE – Formal, but with a trendy twist

• Women: Skip the modest gown in favor of a more fun, but still formal dress. You can also wear a formal knee-length dress, a satin ball-gown skirt with a cashmere sweater or blouse, or tuxedo pants with a silk top. Accessories should be fun and unique.

• Men: Wear a tuxedo combined with trendy or whimsical items, such as a black shirt or a colored or patterned bow tie with a matching cummerbund.

FORMAL – Slightly less formal than black tie

• Women: Wear a floor-length gown, a knee-length cocktail dress or little black dress with heels, or a dressy suit.

• Men: Wear a dark suit and tie with dressy leather shoes, or a tuxedo.

SEMI-FORMAL – Somewhere between formal and casual, depending on the time of the event

• Women: Wear a knee-length cocktail dress, a little black dress, a dressy skirt and top, or even slacks with a dressy blouse.

• Men: Wear a suit and tie in a dark or light color, depending on the season and the time of day, or dress pants with a collared shirt and jacket. Add dressy leather shoes.

COCKTAIL ATTIRE – Festive and fun, but not formal

• Women: Wear a knee-length dress, or even dress pants or a skirt with a nice blouse.

• Men: Wear a jacket and slacks, with or without a tie. Colors or patterns can be a bit bolder than with semi-formal attire.

BUSINESS CASUAL – Casual, but work-appropriate

• Women: Wear dress pants, a casual dress, or a skirt with a nice blouse. Stay away from spaghetti straps or plunging necklines.

• Men: Wear khakis or dress pants with a collared shirt and loafers (or loafer-style shoes). You can also add a sport coat or blazer.

CASUAL – Anything goes, but stay away from jeans, shorts, and tank tops for bigger events (casual weddings included).

• Women: Wear a sundress, a skirt or pants with a pretty top.

• Men: Wear khakis with a button-down, a sweater, or a polo shirt.

 

As always, if you have questions or need help with what might be the most appropriate option for your next event, please let us know!

Men’s Lounge Ideas for Your Wedding

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Why should the bride get all the attention?  Create a unique men’s lounge for your male guests to enjoy all evening long.  It’s the perfect touch of luxury, relaxation, and fun to any wedding.  Here are some great features to include in your men’s lounge:

Cigar_Bar

{1} Cigar Bar:  Have an outdoor patio space or access to an outdoor area? It’s the perfect area for gents to grab a cigar and kick back. Select a variety of brands to choose from, and be sure to include all the essentials, like ash trays, lighters, and cutters. Personalize this custom cigar bands that marries your wedding theme.

Wiskey_Bar

{2} Whiskey Bar: Most men enjoy the sophistication of a nice glass of whiskey. Do some research and select a variety of favorites for your display.  Be sure to include glasses, and even set it up with a personal bartender.  If whiskey’s not your thing, or you want to add more variety, try adding scotch or bourbon.

Finger_Foods

{3} Finger Food Buffet: A finger food bar is a great addition to your men’s lounge. Include two or three yummy ‘bar’ foods items to snack on. Wings, potato skins or even nachos will go well together! It’s perfect for a late night snack after some dancing.

Craft_Beer_Bar

{4} Craft Beer Selections: Select a variety of craft beers by the bottle, or in kegs to display in your men’s lounge.  For fun, you can even pair with a bartender to create a tasting experience.

Bow_Tie_Bar

{5} Bowtie Bar: Finding favors that aren’t food can be tricky, especially for a large number of guests. Bowties can be a quirky way to incorporate your own style into the wedding reception. Pick classic colors or vibrant patterned bow ties to accommodate what you prefer. Package them in a box with your wedding logo or monogram for a personalized look that will give your guests a meaningful favor to remember this fun day.

Guest Blogger:

Pauleen

Pauleen Vacca, Owner & Head Designer

Lover of all things lifestyle and design, Pauleen simply loves the events business. As an avid social media user, with a love for the platforms Pinterest and Instagram, and a self taught graphic designer, Pauleen believes that learning can never stop. She has a B.A. in English Writing from St. John Fisher College with minors in Communication and Digital Technologies & Culture. After working in both Rochester and New York City, Vacca opened Pauleenanne Design in 2011.  When not busy with the business, Pauleen enjoys going to her favorite Rochester restaurants, finding artistic inspiration, and jet setting whenever possible.

Pauleenanne Design is a full service event planning & marketing firm founded by Pauleen Vacca.  Located in Rochester, NY, we aim to change the local market through our eye for design, client centered approach, and passion for our industry.  Serving the Rochester, Buffalo, Finger Lakes, and beyond, we work with our client’s to offer a fresh, trend setting perspective, while still maintaining the integrity of your personal style or professional brand.  Whether you have a Pinterest board filled with event dreams or you’re a savvy company, we want to take your visions, enhance them, and execute them brilliantly.  Our goal is to make you look even more fabulous!

Pauleenanne Design | Events & Marketing
1577 Ridge Road West Suite 218
Rochester, NY 14615
(585) 444-3663, Ext 700

 

What to Wear for a Second Wedding

/0 Comments/in /by

What to Wear for Second Wedding

We see many couples in our store who are looking for some guidance on what to wear for a second wedding.  Clearly, there are many factors that go into decision making around a second ceremony and reception. Choices made in other areas will set the tone for the attire you ultimately select.

Sometimes there is an assumption that a second wedding will just be a big barbeque in the back yard with the couple getting married under the oak tree in shorts and a t-shirt. While that type of event certainly happens, we also see a number of scenarios which call for more formality.

  • Couples that had very large weddings the first time and are looking for a more intimate event the second time — just because it isn’t a four hundred guest affair, doesn’t mean that it’s any less special or elegant. Tuxedos or suits can be a great option here.
  • Couples that may have missed out on the traditional wedding experience because they eloped or had a low-key event at their local courthouse due to work, school or a military deployment.
  • One partner who is getting remarried and a second who will be getting married for the first time.

Each of these scenarios might present slightly different options for the couple planning the wedding.  Regardless of your past experience, you want to be sure you’re both on the same page as to the scope and formality of your ceremony and reception.

As a menswear and tuxedo provider, our tastes tend toward a more formal form of dress but we can certainly help with resort casual, semi-formal and formal options for your wedding.  A few things to think about:

The size of your wedding party – how many bridesmaids and groomsmen do you want to have?

  • Some couples will choose to forgo having a large bridal party and just the bride and/or groom will dress in wedding attire

Do you have children that you would like to involve?

  • Depending on how old your children are you might involve them as a ring bearer or flower girl or perhaps for a reading or other task if there’s a religious ceremony as part of your wedding – children’s tuxedos and suits are available to rent for this type of scenario.
  • If you have adult children, they may be honored to serve in a groomsman or bridesmaid role and would match the rest of your wedding party

Are there parents or other special guests that you would like to have dressed in particular attire?

Level of formality

  • Formal – black tie for gentlemen and long dresses for women
  • Semi-Formal – two or three-piece suits
  • Destination or Beach Theme – resort or club-wear which might include light colored suits with or without ties

Regardless of what you decide, we’d be honored to help you sort through your attire options to find something that works to make your wedding a special and meaningful day for everyone.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo 1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit) Rochester, NY 14622 (585) 467-7711

How to Wear a Cummerbund

/0 Comments/in , , /by

G-Alexander-Midnight-Blue-Tuxedo

The cummerbund is a traditional tuxedo accessory that is designed to bridge the transition between your shirt and pants. It is used in place of (but not with) a vest. A cummerbund is always worn with a bow tie, never a long tie.  Although we’ve seen more pictures lately showing guys going without a cummerbund or vest, it tends to lead to a sloppy look where the shirt is pulling out of the pants and bunching.  Since tuxedo pants do not have belt loops, there is less opportunity to draw the waistband tight enough to prevent the shirt from becoming partially untucked.  The cummerbund provides some compression and provides a nice crisp and clean look.  Cummerbunds are a ‘one size fits most’ accessory with an elastic band and hook in the back to allow you to adjust it to a tighter or looser configuration.

The correct spelling is actually “Cummerbund” not “Cumberbund.  While Merriam-Webster Dictionary does list “Cumberbund” as an alternate spelling, this is purely because of how often it is misspelled and pronounced.  Such is the way that language develops.  But for now, and originally, “Cummerbund” is the correct spelling.

Black is the traditional color of tuxedos in general and the cummerbund specifically. That said, there are many different color and pattern options available to find just the right look.  Often the cummerbund and bow tie are the same color and pattern, but basic black nearly always works regardless.  Similar to the bow tie that has ebbed and flowed in the fashion world, the cummerbund has enjoyed varying popularity as an accessory.  The past ten years have seen most men opt for the vest but we’ve had a lot more requests for cummerbunds lately and we’ve seen several designers introduce modern interpretations that coordinate with their tuxedo lines.

The cummerbund began in India around 1850, not as formal wear necessarily, but as dining wear for British military personnel stationed there.  The folks from India often wore sashes around their waist called kamarbands, kamar meaning ‘waist.’  For formal dinners, the British army customarily wore waistcoats (vests) under their jackets.  But in no small part due to the heat in India, the British were very keen to find a cooler dining uniform and quickly adopted the sash for their dining wear waist covering.

One last tip – the pleats of the cummerbund should always face up.

So, there you have it – the low down on a cummerbund, it’s history and how you should wear it. If you have any questions on how a cummerbund might look for your next event, we’d be honored to help if we can.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo
1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit)
Rochester, NY 14622
(585) 467-7711

Prom Tuxedos Rental Prices in Rochester, NY

/0 Comments/in , /by

Prom or ball is coming up and you need to find a tux, right? Generally, the earlier you book the more you save. If you book at the last minute, the regular price doesn’t go up but you may not get as big a discount or have as much selection as someone who books earlier.

In Rochester, you can expect to spend between $100 and $250 on a rental package from most area stores with the vast majority of rentals falling in the middle of that range. When shopping, be sure that the rental package includes the items you need. At Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo our packages all include a jacket, pants, vest or cummerbund, shirt, tie and shoes. Some retailers advertise low teaser prices that don’t include things like shoes or a vest. When you include those items, their teaser/promotional price falls into this general range that we’ve talked about.

Alternatively, some places artificially inflate their prices so they can advertise with headlines like, “Save 50%” if you order before a certain date. We believe most people understand that if a product is permanently on sale for 50% off, that the inflated original price is one that nobody really pays anyway.

Choosing a tuxedo package in the upper end of the price range generally means that the tuxedo has nicer fabric, more exclusive designer labels and the fit and finish is generally closer to a purchased garment, rather than what people typically think of as a rented tuxedo. At the lower end of the range, there are still a variety of styles and options available but more popular requests like slim-fit tuxedos or well known brand names are less likely to be found at those price points.

Depending on the event you are attending, there may be promotional or group pricing in effect that has been arranged by the school sponsoring the dance. It always pays to ask if they have arranged for preferred pricing for their guests. If they haven’t yet, we’d be happy to discuss how this works — just put us in touch with the faculty adviser working with the prom committee and we’ll take it from there!

We hope you have a good time at your event and we’d be honored to help select a tuxedo or suit that helps you look the way you want to, while staying in your budget.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo
1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit)
Rochester, NY 14622
(585) 467-7711


View Larger Map

What is the Cost to Rent a Tuxedo in Rochester, NY?

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Renting a tuxedo for a formal occasion like a wedding, prom or gala doesn’t have to break the bank.  When you compare the rental cost versus purchasing a tuxedo (and accessories) as well as the cost of tailoring before your event and dry cleaning or professional laundering afterwards, renting becomes the clear low-cost leader.

In Rochester, you can expect to spend between $100 and $250 on a rental package from most area stores with the vast majority of rentals falling in the middle of that range. When shopping, be sure that the rental package includes the items you need.  At Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo our packages all include a jacket, pants, vest or cummerbund, shirt, tie and shoes.  Some retailers advertise low teaser prices that don’t include things like shoes or a vest.  When you include those items, their teaser/promotional price falls into this general range that we’ve talked about.

Alternatively, some places artificially inflate their prices so they can advertise with headlines like, “Save 50%” if you order before a certain date. We believe most people understand that if a product is permanently on sale for 50% off, that the inflated original price is one that nobody really pays anyway.

Choosing a tuxedo package in the upper end of the price range generally means that the tuxedo has nicer fabric, more exclusive designer labels and the fit and finish is generally closer to a purchased garment, rather than what people typically think of as a rented tuxedo.  At the lower end of the range, there are still a variety of styles and options available but more popular requests like slim-fit tuxedos or well known brand names are less likely to be found at those price points.

Depending on the event you are attending, there may be promotional or group pricing in effect that has been arranged by the event organizer.  It always pays to ask the organization sponsoring the event if they have arranged for preferred pricing for their guests.  If they haven’t yet, we’d be happy to discuss how this works — just put us in touch with the organization and we’ll take it from there!

We hope you have a good time at your event and we’d be honored to help select a tuxedo or suit that helps you look the way you want to, while staying in your budget.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo
1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit)
Rochester, NY 14622
(585) 467-7711


View Larger Map

Tux Rental Prices in Rochester, NY

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

In Rochester, you can expect to spend between $100 and $250 on a rental package from most area stores with the vast majority of rentals falling in the middle of that range. When shopping, be sure that the rental package includes the items you need. At Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo our packages all include a jacket, pants, vest or cummerbund, shirt, tie and shoes. Some retailers advertise low teaser prices that don’t include things like shoes or a vest. When you include those items, their teaser/promotional price falls into this general range that we’ve talked about.

Alternatively, some places artificially inflate their prices so they can advertise with headlines like, “Save 50%” if you order before a certain date. We believe most people understand that if a product is permanently on sale for 50% off, that the inflated original price is one that nobody really pays anyway.

Choosing a tuxedo package in the upper end of the price range generally means that the tuxedo has nicer fabric, more exclusive designer labels and the fit and finish is generally closer to a purchased garment, rather than what people typically think of as a rented tuxedo. At the lower end of the range, there are still a variety of styles and options available but more popular requests like slim-fit tuxedos or well known brand names are less likely to be found at those price points.

Depending on the event you are attending, there may be promotional or group pricing in effect that has been arranged by the event organizer. It always pays to ask the organization sponsoring the event if they have arranged for preferred pricing for their guests. If they haven’t yet, we’d be happy to discuss how this works — just put us in touch with the organization and we’ll take it from there!

We hope you have a good time at your event and we’d be honored to help select a tuxedo or suit that helps you look the way you want to, while staying in your budget.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo
1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit)
Rochester, NY 14622
(585) 467-7711


View Larger Map

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Tux in Rochester, NY?

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The big day is coming an you have to rent a tux. While we would argue that there are other things to consider, a question that always comes up is how much does it cost to rent a tux?

In Rochester, you can expect to spend between $100 and $250 on a rental package from most area stores with the vast majority of rentals falling in the middle of that range. When shopping, be sure that the rental package includes the items you need. At Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo our packages all include a jacket, pants, vest or cummerbund, shirt, tie and shoes. Some retailers advertise low teaser prices that don’t include things like shoes or a vest. When you include those items, their teaser/promotional price falls into this general range that we’ve talked about.

Alternatively, some places artificially inflate their prices so they can advertise with headlines like, “Save 50%” if you order before a certain date. We believe most people understand that if a product is permanently on sale for 50% off, that the inflated original price is one that nobody really pays anyway.

Choosing a tuxedo package in the upper end of the price range generally means that the tuxedo has nicer fabric, more exclusive designer labels and the fit and finish is generally closer to a purchased garment, rather than what people typically think of as a rented tuxedo. At the lower end of the range, there are still a variety of styles and options available but more popular requests like slim-fit tuxedos or well known brand names are less likely to be found at those price points.

Depending on the event you are attending, there may be promotional or group pricing in effect that has been arranged by the event organizer. It always pays to ask the organization sponsoring the event if they have arranged for preferred pricing for their guests. If they haven’t yet, we’d be happy to discuss how this works — just put us in touch with the organization and we’ll take it from there!

We hope you have a good time at your event and we’d be honored to help select a tuxedo or suit that helps you look the way you want to, while staying in your budget.

scheduleme

Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo
1900 East Ridge Road (Near 104/Culver Road Exit)
Rochester, NY 14622
(585) 467-7711


View Larger Map