WEDDING TRENDS 2016

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Themes, and flowers, and color schemes, oh my! Wedding season is here and unless you hired a wedding planner, which we recommend to help your wedding experience be the best it could be, your to-do list is getting longer! Picking a dress, choosing a tux, deciding on flowers, debating over location, all of these things need to be done just to start the wedding process.  Never fear! We have the hottest wedding trends of 2016 to help get you started.

Bold Colors

If you remember in our last few wedding posts we have mentioned that bold colors are making appearances in several surprising areas, like tuxedos. So it is no surprise that bold colors are trending this year. A bolder color palette really pops and makes a statement.  From flowers, to bridesmaids dresses, or even the dress, don’t be afraid to go bold!

Brunch Weddings

Mid day weddings have been a popular option in the past, especially for spring and fall weddings. But in the summer mid-day is the hottest part of the day and you and your guests will be miserable. Enter the brunch wedding! A wedding in the late morning hours will help you and your guests beat the heat and still give you those gorgeous daytime photos. Plus, you have the added bonus of serving brunch food at your reception. Can you imagine the possibilities?

Woodland/Adventure Themes

It is no secret that a lot of couples have been opting for outdoor weddings. Especially with rustic and boho trends taking off and those aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

But some couples have been taking outdoor weddings to the extreme, a new trend called adventure weddings. These couples decide to hold the ceremony on a boat, under water, at the top of a mountain, in a plane, anywhere that represents doing some extreme activity they love.

Locally sourced catering, florist, etc.

 This is one of our favorite trends of the year. You know Mr. Burch is a huge advocate for shopping local, and we are so glad there are couples out there that really take it seriously.

This new wedding trend is all about using locally sourced food and flowers, and using locally made items in their ceremony. A small business wedding if you will. This kind of dedication to supporting your local economy is exactly what will help it flourish!

Natural decoration elements (cement, cork, wood etc)

Following the outdoor trend, more and more couples are using natural elements for décor in their wedding.  You have probably seen weddings use tree stumps or slabs made out of a tree trunk, maybe even moss, but now more elements are being used. Throwing in some stone, cork, or even cement elements add to the earthy feel of the wedding and give it depth.

Now that we have given you some ideas to get started, go forth and plan! And remember DIY may be all the rage right now, but the last thing you want is to be missing elements of your wedding because you were trying to do them all yourself. Not to mention the added stress DIY adds to the entire bridal party. Shop local and let the professionals handle it so all you have to do is show up!

TOP 5 UNIQUE PROM THEMES FOR 2016

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Prom has become a right of passage for high-schoolers. One night that is planned meticulously, anticipated for months, and remembered for a lifetime.

Part of that planning includes a theme for prom. A detail that dictates the entire night but is overlooked by many of the attendees. Many people remember their prom vividly, but how many remember the theme?

 

We have gathered the top 5 most unique themes you and your classmates are sure to remember for years to come!

 

In the age of comic books turned blockbuster movies, it would be a crime to not at least consider a Super Hero Prom. The decor would include a city skyline backdrop, cardboard foes for your super heros to fight, and don't forget the visual "sound" effects.

  As an added bonus, this theme has some awesome photo opportunities. 

    

 

Our next unique prom theme is bring together two elements that are even more at odds than superheros and villains. Fire and Ice.

This visually stunning theme is sure to impress. Not to mention the wardrobe possibilities! A firey red or ice blue tux or that red hot dress you have had your eye on for months! You could be the school that had the hot new prom theme "before it was cool"

 

Next up, many a prom goer has been asked to "Catch a Falling Star" at their prom, but how many have been asked to "Catch a Dream"

 

This theme has it all, bright colors, sparkle, and an extremely catchy phrase. Not to mention this new spin on a classic has the potential to be a trend setter. Break out of the mold and offer your classmates a night they won't easily forget.

 

This next theme is out of this world. (We had to!) This Galaxy theme is riding the Star Wars wave, even including a "Galaxy Rebellion" package.

 

 This theme will force you to make the ultimate choice, a light tux or a dark tux? Choose wisely, and may the style be with you.

 

Last, but certainly not least, is our fairytale prom theme. However, since we are talking about unique themes, this is not your typical fairytale. It involves a punctual rabbit, a smiling cat, and painting roses.

 

 

This theme can be featured with a psychadellic twist or a classic Queen of Hearts Garden Party.

 

 

Whichever path you decide to follow, you are guaranteed to have a Very, Merry Un-Prom Night!

And remember, don't be late for this very important date!

2016 PROM TRENDS FOR GENTLEMAN

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Gather round gentlemen! You are about to receive the inside scoop for your prom style this year. We are here to help you step up your game and wow your lovely date.

One of the biggest trends this year, and it has been around a while, is bow ties! No longer reserved for professors and "nerds". Every lady loves a dapper gent in a bow tie!

If you really want to take a risk, try the "no jacket" look and rock suspenders with your bow tie.

 

Gray is also a very popular color this year. It is a very pleasing neutral that is almost guaranteed to match your dates dress. Especially if she is wearing a trendy pastel dress.

(Want to know more about Ladies Prom trends? See our previous blog post!)

    

Whether it is a dark graphite gray or a light steel gray, you are sure to be in style this prom season.

 

Darker colored tuxes accented by black lapels would be a bold choice and an excellent match if your date chose a "Little Black Dress" to wear.

 

 

You have a selection of colors to choose from too to make sure you and your gal stand out from the crowd.

 

Following the same idea, tuxes with black piping are very popular this year.

   

These tuxedos give you more of a selection of colors. The jackets with black piping range from light to dark hues.

 

Finally, if you aren't the adventurous type or you want more of a classic debonair look, there is always the classic black tux. Sure to compliment your dates ensemble and let your looks speak for themselves. Its called "classic" for a reason.

 

 

Now that you know what is in style and you have an idea of what you would like to wear, come in to any one of our many local locations to see if that look works for you. Mr. Burch has one of the largestlocalwarehouses. So, not only do we have the look you want, we have it in house! Prom next week and you don't have a tux, no problem! Remember, all of our tuxedos are local so we don't have to wait to have it shipped to us. Last minute emergencies are our specialty.

 

*Disclaimer:

We always recommend coordinating looks with your date. We are not responsible for arguments or awkward pictures caused by not consulting with your date. ;)  

2016 PROM TRENDS FOR LADIES

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Two pieces aren't just for summer anymore! One of this year's biggest prom dress trends is the elegant two piece dress. 

This two piece style is the perfect representation of this season's trends. This year is full of colorful, unique, and refreshing styles to match every personality. 

Some of your favorite styles from 2015 are here for another year, plus 2016 has brought plenty of flare.

With so many styles to chose from this year, you can rest easy knowing there is enough to go around.

Some of 2015's fabulous trends have stayed around another year, including the fun and flirty short dresses.

Other trends are new this year like pastels, and floral patterns. Don't mistake the floral patterns for the vintage trend of years past. These are bold, floral patterns are not your grandmother's patterns. They are a new era all their own.  

Had your heart set on a vintage prom dress? Never fear, lace is still very trendy this season.

Flowers and lace not your thing? Want something a little more bold? Sparkles, Cut-outs, and Animals prints are also trending. There really is a style for every girl. 

Finally, the classic that keeps coming back but never gets tired, which is why they call it a classic, the little black dress. Black is simple, elegent, and very hot right now! 

 

The only problem with this year's prom trends is, how will you choose which one?

 

Don't forget the perfect accessory to your stylish dress, a well-matched Tux! Mr. Burch can help your prom date compliment his tux to your one of a kind dress. With hundreds of styles in stock, we are guaranteed to be able to find the perfect tux to go with your unique style. 

HOLIDAY STYLE TIPS FOR MEN 2014

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

The Holiday Season is here.  How many parties and holiday functions have you been invited to this year? Will you be attending a neighborhood open house?  Office party? Charitable Fundraiser? Festive family gathering?  Do you already have New Year's Eve plans?  What are the trends for men's fashion this holiday season?
 
 
Neighborhood: Neutral colors are best here. He can't go wrong in his best dark work suit as the key is to blend in with the crowd at this party. Let someone else get chided for their goofy snowman sweater tomorrow.
 
 
 
 
Office: If he dresses in layers, he can start the day out more formal and as he gets more comfortable, he can shed a layer or two for a more casual look. A chunky cardigan over a button-down and tie, topped off with a blazer will do the trick.
 
 
 
 
Fundraiser/New Year's Eve: He likes the bowtie, but can never wear one to work? This is the perfect time to break it out. It's cool to play mix-and-match: no need to stick to strictly black and white when anything goes. Try brown and black for the modern spin on a classic tux.
 
 
 
 
 
Contact Mr. Burch (205) 252-3600 for your formal wear needs during the holidays this year.  Our experienced and professional staff would love to help you look your best.  Happy Holidays!

TALMADGE VISITS THE WHITE ROOM BRIDAL SALON

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

After a good rest on vacation in Gatlinburg we were ready to start visiting some local shops. Where should we go first? We started out at The White Room located in the heart of Mountain Brook Village. I was a little nervous sending that first Facebook message to Cathy Kelley, one of the owners , trying to explain exactly what I was doing. What response would I get? Would it be similar to my families? Nope. Cathy was very receptive and we had an appointment to meet her and the get a tour of her store two days later.
 
 
It was a beautiful morning in Mountain Brook and Talmadge was wearing our new fitted white Providence notch tuxedo, after Labor Day I know, but we were visiting The White Room. Right?
 
 
 
As we were taking a couple of photos outside Cathy came out the front door and got a picture with our sharp dressed man. When we finished outside, it was time to see what the White Room was all about. 
 
 
 
When you walk in the front door you are immediately greeted by beautiful things. A curio full of sparkling jewelry and a few mannequins of their own adorned in the prettiest of dresses. As you make your way into the main showroom you are met with a feeling of style and sophistication. The dresses line the walls hanging from custom racks, a comfortable seating area, and one of the coolest chandeliers I have ever seen. Cathy was nice enough to give me a grand tour of the place and it is larger inside than you think. Every nook and cranny is decorated elegantly and the break room is to die for! I’m a guy and I would shop for a dress here! I sat down with Cathy and Carolyn in the showroom to get an insight on how the business got started and a little background. 
 
 
 
Carolyn Kelley started altering dresses for the only couture shop in Birmingham at the time. Ladies from Birmingham would go to Atlanta and pick out their dresses then come home to get altered. As her work became recognized Carolyn became the name in town for wedding dress alterations. After a while Carolyn realized that this was a successful business to be in and has not looked back. Seeing the need for alterations and the majority of ladies flocking to Atlanta for wedding gowns, the next step was a no brainer, to open a bridal shop. All the lines that the ladies were bringing back were designers that were not yet offered in the state of Alabama. Carolyn decided to offer those designers right here in Birmingham. Having that idea in mind, Carolyn placed an ad in an upcoming bridal magazine connecting her name with it, even before she had actually opened a store. This was very successful seeing that her name was well recognized in the business. The publication came out in 2004 and the first store was opened January 2005 in Old Town Helena, Alabama where Cathy came in as an owner/manager. After 5 years there they moved The White Room to Cahaba Heights and after 5 years there saw a great opportunity in Mountain Brook.  They have been at the present location since June of this year. 
 
 
 
In the short time I spent with these two ladies it was apparent their genuine passion not only for the business but also for the bride-to-be’s satisfaction. Their personalities are infectious and I left the shop with a smile on my face. Just a note, their semi-annual black tie event with gowns up to 80% off is in full swing and will end September 30th so hurry in. Thanks to Carolyn and Cathy Kelley for the chance to visit with them and we hope to see them soon.

HOW TO GET GREAT HOMECOMING PHOTOS

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Homecoming is here and most parents can't wait to break out the camera.  You want to be certain to get a few pics that you (and the kids) will be proud of.  Take a look at a few tips listed below.
 
 
Try to get a good background:  Your backyard will probably make a good background for your photos.  If it's getting dark outside, don't forget the flash.
 
 
 
Get individual shots:  Most parents take photos of the couple or group before they go out but you might also consider individual shots as well.  This way you'll have a great momento even if the couple isn't dating later.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Get different group shots: You definitely want to photograph the entire group, but you might also want to get varying group shots like just girls or all the guys together.   Don't forget to get a shot of each couple as well.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sweat the details:  A lot of time and money goes into getting ready for any formal event.  Be sure to capture the details like the corsage, vintage earrings or special hair do.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Everything doesn't have to be planned:  Kids will be kids.  Let them have fun and capture a few images of them playing around.  These spontaneous (not posed) photos will probably be some of your favorites.  Plus most kids will want fun, individual shots for their Facebook profile.
 
 
 
 
 
Hopefully, this will help you capture the moments before the formal and give you some great momentos.  Don't forget to contact Mr. Burch for all your formal fashion needs.  We are here to help.

HOMECOMING DO'S AND DON'TS

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Fall is here and football season has started.  That can only mean one thing - time for HOMECOMING!  For those of you who might not have attended before, don't worry, we're here to help.  Take a look at our do's and don'ts listed below.
 
DO
Dress up:  While not as formal as prom, homecoming has become an occasion to break out a formal dress. Whether long and elegant or short and sassy, just make sure your dress is comfortable. It’s going to be a long night. This applies to you gentlemen as well.  You can dress up in a tuxedo or wear a suit but make sure the fit is right and you're comfortable. 
 
 
 
Coordinate:  Some girls go as far as giving their date a color swatch to assist them when tie shopping. As a rule, tie/dress should be in the same color family. 
 
Wear comfortable shoes:  Super high heels look great, but won’t feel great after a while. Many girls pack ballet slippers or flip flops for a quick change before hitting the dance floor.
 
Take time for proper grooming:  Get a mani/pedi. Get your hair done. Gents, get a haircut early in the week to give your style time to “grow in.” Pack mints. Trust me.
 
 
 
DON'T
Wear a hat:  Who do you think you are?  Ducky from Pretty In Pink
 
Coordinate multiple articles of clothing:  This is too matchy-matchy and a definite DON'T.
 
Get your date a nose-gay:  Do you even know what that is? Girls prefer a small wrist corsage.
 
Overdo the make-up:  There’s nothing worse than seeing a smear of base or blush on your date’s shirt collar after a slow dance.
 
 
 
And most importantly: DON’T sweat the details!  Have fun and enjoy yourself. That’s what high school is all about.  Contact Mr Burch for all your tuxedo rental or suit needs.  We're here to help!

2014 BIGGEST WEDDING TRENDS

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

So far, 2014 has been a big wedding year and we're not done yet.  Let's take a look at some of the hot wedding trends this year and what you can expect for the rest of 2014.

Back In Black

Formal black tie affairs never go out of style.  But this year couples are opting for all the dapper extras.  You'll see white gloves and bow ties whether they're celebrating in a ballroom or backyard.  There is a tuxedo for every occasion.

Remember:  Your guests need guidance for the dress code.  You should provide attendees with examples of fashion do's and don'ts on your wedding website.

 

 

Once Bitten

Your guests won't have to worry about balancing a signature cocktail and appetizer plate if you serve delicious selections that can be eaten with one hand. 

Remember:  Work with your caterer to customize your menu and create small, playful options.

 

Photo by B&A Warehouse

Make it Personal

Personal touches are what make your wedding unique and showcase your personality.  Whether it's the monogram on the dance floor or guest's names on the tables, those additional details make a big difference.

Remember:  You don't need a big budget to make a big impression.  A chalkboard display with your dating history or a pictorial timeline are great and inexpensive personal additions.

 

Image from 2 Hearts Weddings Blog

Let The Flowers Flow

You can't have a wedding without flowers and bouquets are having a big moment in 2014.  Let your floral designer breath new life into your displays with more fluid, asymmetrical arrangements.

Remember:  Balance is important.  If the bridal bouquet is overflowing, you might keep your bridesmaid's flowers in a tighter bunch.

 

 

Image provided by Lillie's Flowers
 
 
 
Twinkle Twinkle Little Chandelier
 
Chandeliers are big right now.  No ceiling?  No problem.  You can hang a chandelier from a tree branch or tent.
 
 
 
Remember:  Less can be more.  A single chandelier can make a big impression while creating a focal point for the I dos.
 
 
 
Image courtesy of Lillie's Flowers
 
 
Stay tuned.  More to come in our next post.

2014 SUIT TRENDS FOR GROOM AND GROOMSMEN

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

When attending a wedding, keep in mind that it’s better to be overdressed (only slightly though. Don’t show up in a tux to a semi-formal wedding!) than under-dressed. If you want to dress down during the wedding, you can take off your jacket if need be. Additionally, suits can be rented if you don’t want to break the bank on a suit in an obscure color.  You can usually find a close enough double and at a fraction of the cost.
 
 
Now, here are some up and coming suit trends for the groom to be that bring a modern day twist to the classic tuxedo.
 
 
 
 
1. COLORS
 
 
Just as pink is the new white for brides, grey is the new black for grooms. Lately, there has been an increase in tan or beige suits for summer weddings, and grey suits for fall or winter weddings. Another popular trend is to incorporate an accent color from the bridal party into the groomsmen’s attire.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2. SUSPENDERS
Suspenders are the perfect way to add a funky and modern, yet subtle, twist to any groom’s outfit. Also a great option for groomsmen and ring bearers!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3. BOW TIES
Bow ties are trendy and stylish, the perfect way to make a splash on your wedding day. Embrace your funky side!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pretty snazzy huh? The great thing about these trends becoming more popular is that there are more choices and bargains for menswear than ever!

 

This post originally appeared in The Wedding Party and was written by by Kaitlin Perata