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A Guy’s Guide to Being a Groomsman

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A Guy’s Guide to Being a Groomsman

Congratulations on being asked to be a groomsman! It is an honor that shows how much you mean to the engaged couple. Because you mean a lot to them, you’ll want to show up as your best as their groomsman. To help you do that, here is a guy’s guide to being a groomsman.

Mark Down the Wedding Date

Once you know the date of the wedding and have agreed to be in the wedding, mark down the date and make arrangements. Everyone has only so many days off for work, so plan ahead if you have to take any days off for the wedding. If you are not sure how many days off you will have by the wedding date, make a plan. Talk with your boss well in advance if you will need to take any days off. Then, make sure you communicate with work throughout the year so they don’t forget you have a wedding coming up.

Other Wedding-Related Events

Being in the bridal party means there is an expectation you will be at the engagement party, rehearsal dinner, wedding, and the day after brunch. It’s important you ask the engaged couple what events they have planned so you can ideally be there, if not, let them know in advance. (Are you getting the hint that sooner is always better?) Some nationalities’ traditions mean even the wedding is a multi-day affair. If this is the case, be sure to ask which events you should plan on being at.

Getting Your Suit

The day you get the email or text from the bride or groom about the suit rental/purchasing information, make a date to do it. Do not wait for the deadline to go to your nearest tailor to get measured. The week you get that email/text go get measured and take care of your rental/suit purchase. If you’ll allow us to paint with a broad brush, guys tend to wait till the last minute to take care of their wedding attire. Don’t be that guy! Get it done a.s.a.p., way before you have to.

Plan for the Bachelor Party

If there is going to be a bachelor party, be transparent about your ability to participate sooner than later. If you have a particular budget to stay within, communicate that clearly with the rest of the groomsmen. Clarity & honesty is key. If there are days you know you are unavailable around the proposed time of year of the bachelor party, make that clear so there are no hurt feelings or surprises.

Wedding Gifts

When you are a groomsman you’re normally off the hook for purchasing a bridal shower gift, but you will need to bring a wedding gift. Wedding gifts can be anything from home or cooking goods to gift certificates. If you have a plus one coming to the wedding, have them bring the gift. Then, you will not forget the gift at home before the couple leaves for their honeymoon. We all know how adult friendships go, you probably won’t see the couple for a few months. So bring the wedding gift to the wedding so you don’t have to give it to them late.



There you have it, a surefire guide to being a great groomsman! Your friend will be sure to appreciate your promptness and cooperation as they plan their wedding. For more wedding planning tips and inspiration check out more Chicago Wedding Blog posts below. Happy Planning!

Wedding Decor Colors

How To: Choose Your Wedding Color Scheme

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How To: Choose Your Wedding Color Scheme

Often couples choose a trending color for their wedding color scheme. When wedding planning, there are no wrong choices. However, we do have some suggestions to choose your wedding colors in a different way. Trending colors come and go, but if you choose a color scheme that is so ‘you’, it’ll be timeless & unique. Here are five steps to choose a color scheme that is ‘you’!

First, Narrow Down Your Top Colors And Use A Layout App To Put Colors Together.

Start looking at color options. Then narrow down some of your favorites. Afterward, ensure all colors and textures knit together cohesively by using a layout app. You want to ensure the flowers, ties, suits, dresses, & shoes coordinate.

Second, Instead Of A Trending Color, Think Of Colors That Are ‘You’.

Next, from all those options think about which options are very ‘you’ and nix the excess options. We all can easily tell the year most weddings were by the color of wedding they chose. Navy, blush, burgundy, & gray/blue are all beautiful trending colors that have been widely used. That being said, if you love to wear black every day, black can be a great color for your bridesmaids. You do not have to choose a trending color. If you have a favorite color, say green, that is a color choice you know you’ll love for years to come. Choose colors that can complement each other and reflect your personal style.

Third, Check With Bridesmaids & Groomsmen Attire Designers To Ensure Your Colors Are Possible.

This is often a step brides/grooms forget. Not every designer has fabric in every shade of color you can imagine. Some colors are rotated in and out by year. So before you announce your color scheme; ensure it’s easily accessible to your bridal party. It’s not worth going on a wild goose chase for a color that doesn’t exist. That being said, there are hundreds of color options. You are sure to find at least one of your favorites from step two that you love.

Fourth, Gather Your Decor Ideas.

Now that you’ve narrowed down your colors, choosing coordinating decor is your next job.  When choosing decor you can use one of the coordinating colors you may have eliminated to be a pop of color, contrasting with your bridal party color. Looking at your wedding decor options will also help you solidify your overall color scheme as you keep in mind your venue and wedding flowers.

Fifth, Put It All Together.

You’ve chosen your ‘you’ color, found your bridal party’s attire, and put together your decor ideas and pops of color! Now it’s time to put it all together. At this point, it helps to print everything out so you can see it on paper. You can cut out pictures from magazines, or just print out the final version of the layout we discussed. Then you can present your scheme to your vendors so they can help you bring your ‘you’ wedding color scheme vision to life!



For more wedding planning tips and inspiration, check out more Chicago Wedding Blog posts below! Happy Planning!

Arcade Bachelor Party Ideas

Bachelor Party Ideas

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Bachelor Party Ideas

It’s 2020, gents. There are better ways to celebrate your upcoming wedding day. Either in movies or real life, we’ve seen the cringe-worthy proverbial bachelor parties where men go to a strip club; despite the fact they’re soon to be married. If you are looking for a fun, yet relationship affirming bachelor party; here are some great ideas you won’t regreat.

Challenge Your Friend Group To An Endurance Test

Have you ever heard of a “Tough Mudder?” The Tough Mudder will test your group’s endurance by putting you through a ten mile long obstacle course! What better way to get healthy before you begin your married life than an obstacle course challenge with your best friends? A little healthy competition is always fun. It will create memories sure to last for a long time.

Go On A Staycation

You can all stay home, but plan a weekend together. Go to your favorite: restaurants, bars, bowling alleys, or arcades. You don’t have to go far away on a vacation. Spend a weekend celebrating your friendship by going to all your favorite places and simply having fun. You know what you have fun doing, so keep it simple and go do that.

Try Something New

Never tried Zumba before? Take your groomsmen to do that! Never played golf before? Go find a golf course! How about a painting class? Or if you’re feeling brave, a ballet class. The most hilarious times with our friends often come from new situations. Whether you’re incredibly uncoordinated or a professional-grade athlete; this idea will be fun for everyone. Just don’t forget your sense of humor.

Enjoy The Great Outdoors

A less expensive option for a bachelor party is camping. The stay is free as long as someone already has a tent. All you’d have to provide is the food for you to grill up. You could also pay to do extras such as canoeing, kayaking, or tubing. You can easily tailor this one to your wedding budget. Who doesn’t love a night under the stars with a bonfire?

We hope these bachelor party suggestions gave you some unique ideas. No matter what bachelor party you choose, it is sure to create memories for you to laugh about for years. For more inspiration and wedding planning tips & tricks check out the blog posts below!

Bridal Party Proposal

Four Unique Ways To Propose To Your Bridal Party

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Four Unique Ways To Propose To Your Bridal Party

Pinterest has become a hub of DIY and wedding planning. Because of this, ways to propose to your bridal party have become more creative. If you want some unique ways to ask your bridesmaids & groomsmen without breaking the bank, we’ve got you covered! Here are four unique ways to ask your bridal party to be in your wedding.

Option #1- A handwritten note on the back of a meaningful photo of you together.

It’s always nice to receive handwritten notes. Friends love reminiscing on memories by looking at old photos. When you combine those two ideas together it makes for a special keepsake. If you want to go the extra mile, purchase a clear plastic or glass frame so your friend can always see the front and back of the photo and note.

Option #2- A custom sticker put on a mini bottle of champagne or the bridal party’s drink of choice.

This is a yummy and easy option. Purchase printable stickers from any office supply store. You can design on your computer using the brand of choice app, and TADA, you have a fancy & fun bridal party proposal! If your bridal party isn’t the alcohol type, that’s fine! How about a specialty coffee drink?! Decide which drink is your bridal party’s favorite and choose that option.

Option #3- A T-Shirt Or Custom Apparel

When you are getting married there are many fun outings with your bridal party. Who doesn’t love cute or comical bridal party coordinated apparel? You could go simple with bridesmaids bride tribe shirts such as these cute ones from Liz & Kate boutique in Geneva, IL. Or some fun ones for the guys like these groom squad shirts. If you wanted to go a bit simpler, bridesmaid and groomsmen hats are easy to find at many local brick & mortar shops.

Option #4- Give them a box of their favorite sweet treat with a note on the inside of the box asking them to be in your bridal party.

This one is an easy DIY if you like baking. If not, there are many local bakeries or candy shops that make it easy to fill up a box with their favorite things. Who doesn’t like getting candy and cookies?! You can find bakery boxes at any local craft store. Check out some of your local bakeries may even help you out and box it for you.

Pinterest Pins of the Week

Pinterest Pins of the Week

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Pinterest Pins of the Week

Door Signage: We’ve seen monogrammed wreaths and all kind of fun DIY floral bunches for adorning your front door, but we absolutely fell in love with this whimsical sign. The oversized “ I DO” could easily be changed up to fit any theme. For a more traditional affair, the large monogram or couple’s initials might be a nice touch. Or for the more party-oriented Bride and Groom, even little sayings like “ Let’s party “ or “Oh happy day” would be just as welcoming and fun. This sign reminds us to have fun with your décor and also to not overlook the simple touches of decorating your home for the biggest day of your life! Don’t forget about adorning your entrance for at-home bridal showers and other special soirees leading up to the big day!

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Pinterest Pins of the WeekVia Shelly Jones

Personalized Whiskey: This might just be one of the hottest trends we are seeing right now and we are thrilled that it involves the Groom! Asking your guys to be in your wedding has never been easier ( or manlier!) Personalized bottles ( like this one with it’s label found on Etsy) is the perfect way to inflect your personal tastes and give your guys something to truly enjoy or keep for years to come. Adding their own names is a great way to make it even more special and show that you really took the time to acknowledge their part in your wedding. The great news is that these options are just able endless. From personalized whiskeys and tequilas to Fireball- whatever your taste, there’s a way to make it special for your Groomsmen.

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Pinterest Pins of the WeekFound on Etsy

Confetti Push Pop: Okay so we all remember those super orange, really sugary sherbet push pops with Fred Flinstone on them that we had almost every day in the summer as kids? Well lose the ice cream and enter colorful confetti that pops out as you shower the bride and groom after their traditional exit from the ceremony. The engineering of the cylinder is perfect and can be decorated with fun labels and tassels to accompany the wedding décor. Almost too cute, but spot on for kids and adults alike!

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Pinterest Pins of the WeekVia Zulily

Will You Be My Groomsman

Will You Be My Groomsman

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Will You be my Groomsman

The guys are just as important to complement your future husband-to-be. Prior to asking your bridesmaids and groomsmen, it’s important to have a discussion about who you think you are considering as well as you think would pair with each other. Don’t take it literally, these two are not going to start dating or something, but it’s nice to have paired people who may be already dating or married with one another. It’s just another detail to consider…

Guys are a lot simpler them women are. However, asking your gents in a memorable way creates memories for each of you. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1) BBQ Time

Having the boys over for some grilled meat and beers is an inconspicuous way to get them to come over without blowing your cover. Just remember to ask the boys sober!

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Will You Be My Groomsman

2) Sporting Event

Get the guys together and go cheer for your favorite team. It’s a nice way to lighten the mood without getting the “are you sure, dude?” or “It’s About Time!” antics.

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Will You Be My Groomsman

3) Send a card

I know this probably seems silly, but when is the last time you received mail that wasn’t bill or junk mail related? Guys like cards too. Plus, it doesn’t have to be made out of construction paper or sing a song. It could simply be a question on letterhead asking the question at hand.

[pinit]Will You Be My Groomsman

via Wedding Bee

4) Got the Gift of Gab?

Perhaps calling your friend and having a heart-to-heart on the phone in a solo sense is how you would like to handle it. Please just don’t text or email your friend that is so very impersonal!

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Will You Be My Groomsman

5) Get Competitive

Ask your closes guys to join you in a competitive game. Whether it be golf, baseball, bowling, or billiards creating a fun atmosphere takes the pressure off and hopefully they will all agree to stand and support you on your big day.

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Will You Be My Groomsman

Bridesmaid and Groomsman Gift Ideas

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Wondering what to get your bridesmaids and groomsmen as a unique and thoughtful bridal party gift? We’ve got your covered!

While traditionally a bridesmaid or groomsman gift is meant to simply be a token of appreciation to show your close pals and family how much their support and friendship have meant during this critical time before the wedding, some couples opt for gifts ranging from modest and personal, to lavish and much more outside the box. Some are even choosing to forgo the standard cufflinks (still always a great choice), necklaces or matching bridesmaid shoes for experiences or getaways.

That means spa weekends for the gals and sporting events or nights on the town for the guys.  Whatever you decide to do, taking the time to treat your bridal party is a great way to say a thoughtful thank you to those closest to you.  And should you choose one of the old standby gifts, (no harm in that…they call them standbys for a reason) consider adding a monogram or personalization to those items like stationary, clutches, or ties for the boys! And remember, there’s nothing classier than a grateful couple!

6 Wedding Shots to Add to Your Photo List

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There are the traditional shots that are a must on your list, but why not spice up the day and add some fun wedding shots to your photo shoot. These poses are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

The Not So Serious Sexy Pose

We love the slightly sexy bridal poses that are trendy right now, but we also love a bride (and groom) who can have a good laugh. Involve the groomsmen in a not-so-serious sexy pose and you will have a picture that will keep you laughing for years to come.

The Morning of Photos

There will be plenty of pictures of how you and your pretty ladies looked on the big day, but don’t forget about what you looked like the morning of. Make these pictures fun by purchasing matching robes for your bridesmaids, and don’t be afraid to take some candid shots without your hair and make-up done. (Gasp!)

The After the Wedding Shot

You and your new hubby will create just as many memories after the wedding as you will at the ceremony and reception. Why not capture some of those precious moments on film?

Michael Segal Photography

The Just for Him Shots

Every groom is dying to know what is under that beautiful gown you are wearing. Let me remember that image forever with some sexy, yet classy, just for him photos.

The Boys Will be Boys Photos

While the girls are spending the day being pampered, the guys are spending the day goofing off. Let them have their fun, but be sure to capture it all on film.

The Before the Wedding Pictures

You don’t have to let the groom see you before the wedding to get some priceless photos together. Blind fold him for a pre-wedding kiss, or let a door separate you while you exchange some pre-wedding words.

Pinterest: Pins of the Week

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Bridesmaid/Groomsman Schedule: Attendants are such an important part of a wedding.  They’re important not just because they’re our dear friends, but also because they’re supporting us on one of the biggest days of our lives.  They have a variety of jobs and duties over the course of the wedding weekend, and we love the idea of providing them an easy to follow timeline, telling them where to go, when to be there, and what to bring with them.  And while a word document would get the job done, we love this illustrated timeline.  Informative and eye-pleasing, a delightful combination!

Macaroon Cake: Macaroon’s have always been a classic French dessert, and over the past year, they’ve made a big splash among the wedding world.  We love how beautiful they look whether served singly on a plate or boxed in a tiny box.  But this inspiring cake takes macaroon love to the next level.  We love the whimsy of the ombre, and if we were wedding guests, we might just have to have one of each color!

One Love Photography

Go Gray: The majority of grooms tend to opt for black on the big day, but we love that more and more guys are embracing lighter options, including gray and khaki.  We particularly love the guys in this photo, as they opted for shades of gray, in their jackets and vests, polished off perfectly with a classic black tie.  We also love that the groom is standing out in a lighter shade and a lighter tie.  Classic with a bit of modern, always a win in our eyes!

Ten Ways to Involve Loved Ones In Your Wedding

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Your wedding day is a great opportunity to celebrate and honor the men and women who mean so much to you in life. Here are ten ways to involve family, friends, and coworkers of all ages in your wedding festivities…

 

 

  1. An obvious way to involve those closest to you is by asking them to participate in your bridal party as a bridesmaid or groomsmen, with the highest honors going to the maid/matron of honor and best man.
  2. If your bridal party is getting too large, but you’d still like a dear pal to be involved, invite him or her to be an honorary bridesmaid or groomsmen, or, if he or she is between the ages of 9 and 16, a junior bridesmaid or groomsmen.
  3. Bring together the pint-sized people most special to you by inviting them to serve as ring bearers or flower girls during the ceremony.
  4. Grab a few gal or guy pals and ask them to serve as guestbook attendants, greeting guests as they arrive at the wedding or reception and ensuring that they sign the guestbook.
  5. During the wedding ceremony, select a few friends or loved ones to perform a reading of a favorite scripture, poem, or quote.
  6. Musically gifted friends can add a personal touch to your wedding day by singing or playing an instrument during the ceremony or at the reception.
  7. Choose a few upbeat friends to dole out programs to guests as they arrive at the wedding.
  8. If you’re hosting a Christian ceremony, ask a few children between the ages of 10 and 13 to light candles on the altar before the nuptials begin.
  9. Men who aren’t serving as groomsmen can fill in as ushers, welcoming guests and escorting them to their seats.
  10. Personalize your wedding ceremony even more by asking a close friend or relative to officiate the nuptials.