Blog archive
- 2016
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.
10 ALTERNATIVES TO A TRADITIONAL GUEST BOOK
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Your marriage is the beginning of the rest of your life with your spouse. Your wedding is how you celebrate that beginning. The little details are your chance to reflect your personality and show off your style. Don't miss an opportunity to embrace your uniqueness.
While wedding traditions are there if you require some guidance, rules are made to be broken. The traditional guest book is a lovely idea but few couple display their book after the nuptials are over. Why not create a keepsake that become a daily reminder of your wedding? Take a look at these 10 alternatives to the tradtional wedding guest book.
1. Thumb Print Guest Tree: Each guest puts their thumbprint on a branch and signs their name.
2. Wishing Stones: Each guest writes a wish for the new couple.
3. Balloon Art: Each guest signs a balloon and attaches it to art that will be framed and displayed.
4. Love notes: Guests write a message and insert into an envelope.
5. Key to success: Adorable concept and easy to understand.
6. Life is a puzzle: Guests sign puzzle pieces for future assembly and display.
7. Tree of love: Write your special message to the couple and hang on the tree for display.
8. Map it out: Guests sign on the destination they suggest the couple visit.
9. Getting to know you: Ask your guests to write a story of how they know you.
10. Love songs: Guests sign the vinyl version of your special song.
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
IT'S YOUR WEDDING - HAVE FUN WITH IT
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
You've been planning this day since you decided to share your life with your forever love, make sure you have fun with it! Add one or all of these fun ideas to your wedding make sure a great time is had by all.
Mix-matched Wedding Party
Think outside the box when it comes to selecting your wedding party. Maybe your groom is super close to his sister and prefers to have a Best Maid rather than a Best Man, or perhaps your BFF is a guy and has earned the title of Man of Honor in your wedding party. Don't be afraid to have your wedding party truly represent the relationships in your life. It's 2014 and it's perfectly acceptable for you to choose an all male or all female wedding party or any combination of the two. It's your day so it should be a true picture of your life and the special people in it. Terms like Bridesmen and Groomsmaids are gaining more popularity all the time.
Signature Drinks
Whether you are hosting a spiked or virgin event, creating a signature drink to serve to your honored guests is a fun idea and a great way to add a little pop of your personality to the affair. Your Signature Drink may have a story behind it that you could share with your friends and family like how you two created the concoction or it what was you ordered on your first date. Theres also an app for that...you can enter elements of your relationship and personalities and the drink that is right for you will be produced for you. The cocktail hour is a great time to serve these Signature drinks with an explanation for your guests. You can also have them served at the bar or passed all evening.
Midnight Snack
Last but not least, send them out with a smile. A great way to signal that the evening is drawing to a close is to serve a “midnight snack”. Although your party may not be rockin' till the stroke of 12, the idea of something a little extra after dessert to finish off the event is a fun way to say goodnight. Popular midnight snack ideas are milk and cookies, fries with special dipping sauces, ice cream, or popcorn. Pick something that speaks to you. This is a great place to get creative with packaging, too. Include a send off message thanking your friends and family with their special treat, and its sure to be talked about it for events yet to come.
Remember to have fun while planning the big day. The perfect combination of somber and celebration makes for a charmed affair. Happy Planning!
WHAT TO WEAR TO A SUMMER WEDDING: FOR HIM
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
So your summer calendar is once again filled weddings. What do you wear to these nuptials? Depending on the setting, and by following these simple rules, you'll be dressed to impress at each of the “I Do's.”
The City Wedding
If your loved ones are tying the knot in a city setting, a classic traditional look will serve you well. You can't go wrong with a dark suit and a classic shirt and tie. Keep it pretty formal and ad a pop of color with a great tie and/or pocket square. Check your invitation for mention of the event being black tie, if so, allow time to shop or rent a great tux to complete your look.
The Country Wedding
A country setting gives you more breathing room in your wardrobe choices. A light suit, even seer-sucker if you're inclined, is a great idea for a country wedding. Wear a more casual shirt, maybe in a gingham check or floral pattern without a tie. Have fun with accessories like hats and boldly colored pocket squares. Relax, you're in the country.
The Beach Wedding
The beach is the most causal setting for a summer wedding. So it goes that your wedding attire should follow suit. Wear cotton or linen pants and a light breezy shirt. A light jacket is a great way to dress your look up for the ceremony. Accessorize with a fun pocket square and shades are a must! Wear sandals that are easy to get on and off so you can slip them off if you like.
Above all, being comfortable with what you're wearing and dressing with confidence is always the ultimate fashion tip for any occasion. Be yourself and you'll look great!
WHAT TO WEAR TO A SUMMER WEDDING FOR HER PART 2
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
This post originally appeared in The Budget Fashionista.
But by all means, do dress
Yes, it’s summer, but that’s not an excuse to wear shorts and a tank top to a wedding. Even a low-key backyard affair calls for a skirt. While others may wear jeans to their friend’s special day, a fashionista doesn’t stray from decorum. Show the bride and groom that you understand the importance of their wedding and dress up.
Casual Wedding Attire
Keep Color in Mind
Many weddings now have color themes, so if the invite is red and blue, you may not want to wear that color because the bride and bridesmaids will probably be wearing something of that hue. And while wearing white after Labor Day is no longer a fashion faux pas, it’s still disrespectful to wear white to a wedding. Also stay away from black. You don’t want to look like you’re going to a funeral.
Don't Wear Black
Choose Complementary Accessories
A metallic pair of sandals or shoes are the perfect partner to a summer dress. For a ballroom affair, select strappy stilettos or peep-toes. If the event is taking place out doors, you may want to opt for wedges or flats that won’t get stuck in the grass or sand.
It’s also important to choose the right bag. Find a small clutch or wristlet that complements your outfit and fill it with your essentials, among which should be powder. Summer means heat, and heat means sweat, so be prepared.
Summer Accessories
Go Light on Makeup and Jewelry
Fresh, minimalistic makeup is more flattering for a summer wedding. Ditch the heavy lipstick and apply a shimmering gloss to keep lips moist and shiny. Be sure to wear a sunscreen if you’ll be outdoors, but go light on the foundation or wear a light coating of powder instead.
Summer Makeup
Because you’re probably wearing a light, breezy dress, you should also go light on the jewelry. Cumbersome baubles look awkward with an airy ensemble, so trade your chandelier earrings for pearls or studs. A little bling goes a long way in the summer time. Keep it light, and you’ll look and feel better.
Summer Jewelry
No matter what type of wedding you're attending, Mr Burch can help. Stop by our Trussville location to shop our dress collection.
WHAT TO WEAR TO A SUMMER WEDDING FOR HER PART I
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
This post originally appeared in The Budget Fashionista
It may not be your special day, but that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve to look gorgeous. The problem is that what to wear to a summer wedding can be tricky. Because you shouldn’t have to stress out about a wedding that isn’t yours, we’ve put together some tips to ensure that you’ll turn heads while sticking to the dress code. Now all you’ve got to worry about is how to get that cute groomsman to dance with you.
What to Wear to a Summer Wedding: Basic Dos and Don’ts
Do WearDo
- Wear summer colors like turquoise, melon, strawberry, and kelly green
- Wear cute pumps and/or sandals for an inside wedding/reception
- Wear black (with color) to an evening wedding
- Wear something sexy- but tasteful
- Wear a linen pants suit
- Wear a cool straw hat
Don't WearDon’t
- Wear white, unless the bride requests it. People will talk about you (and not in a good way)
- Wear black to an afternoon/morning wedding. Pick something colorful
- Wear heels for an outside wedding/reception (your heel with get stuck in the grass)
- Wear ultra low cut dresses, short-short dresses, shorts. If you wouldn’t want your grandma to see you in it, then don’t wear it.
What to Wear to A Summer Wedding: Dressing Tips
Dress for the time and place
Afternoon ceremonies tend to be more casual than evening soirees, so first take into account what time the event is taking place. At noon, it’s perfectly appropriate to wear a summer sundress or pastel skirt, while at six, it’s more fitting to wear a satin or chiffon cocktail dress. Many weddings nowadays call for a wardrobe change between a low-key ceremony and fancy reception. Determine how much to dress up or down according to the time and venue of the event.
Afternoon Wedding
Evening WeddingTo Be Continued...
HOW TO HOST A BBQ WEDDING RECEPTION
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
There is nothing like a barbecue that says Southern hospitality and cuisine. What a great idea for your summer nuptuials. A wedding reception barbecue allows guests to kick back and enjoy great food in a welcoming atmosphere. Some couples host a BBQ before the wedding as welcome dinner for out of town guests or as part of a themed shower. A BBQ reception can be an affordable option for a couple on a budget or dressed up for a more event. You have limitless options when planning your BBQ but might consider the following guidelines.
Select a date with the BBQ idea in mind. This is Alabama. It gets hotter than the face of the sun in July and August (and sometimes June and September). If you're planning an outdoor shower or reception, you might want to plan for early summer or early fall so your guests don't melt or get eaten alive by mosquitos.
Choose a location depending on what type of wedding reception or shower you want. For a casual gathering, the backyard of a friend or family member might work. Want something a little more upscale? Check out a public garden or venue. Make sure you call and reserve your date.
Send invitations that indicate the type of reception or shower you're hosting. Select stationery that keeps to the level of formality. Be sure to include the word "BBQ" so guests know what to expect.
Plan the food. For a more casual gathering, you might choose to make some or all of the dishes yourself. You might contact a caterer for a more formal event. Definitely use some local flavor like offering multiple flavors of BBQ sauce. Offer food that can be eaten with a fork and knife to keep it less messy. Remember your vegetarian guests as well by offering a few meatless options.
Select your seating. If you're going for casual buffet style with fewer than 50 guets, you might want to set up picnic tables and allow guests to select their own seat. If the occasion is more formal, table assignments are a good idea.
Select favors that reflect your theme and personality. Small bottles of BBQ sauce make adorable favors. You might print labels with your wedding date or favorite romantic quote. You can include a recipe from your party or even a message of apprectiation.
As a Southern gal, BBQ is part of your history. Don't be afraid to embrace it for your wedding reception or shower. As long as you stay true to your personality and theme, it can be a great option. As always, don't hesitate to contact Mr. Burch for any of your wedding needs.
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR WEDDING FAVORS
Wednesday, July 6, 2016
Wedding favors are optional gifts given to wedding party guests as a token of the bride and groom's appreciation for participation in their wedding. They don't have to be elaborate or expensive. They just need to reflect your wedding and personality.
Summer is a wonderful opportunity to give favors that fit your theme and season. Now that you have your theme and date selected, how do you know what kinds of wedding favors to select? Keep these simple rules in mind.
Budget
Consult your budget. Decide how much of your wedding funds you will set aside for favors and shop with that number in mind. No matter the amount, you need to make that work.
Groom
Talk to your fiance about what he wants. The gift will be from both of you so he should have input.
Style
Figure out what style of favor you want. Do you want classic or whimsical? Knowing beforehand can save time shopping for favors that don't match your personality.
Theme
Remember your theme. Bubbles are fun but might not have anything to do with your beach wedding. You want your guests to be reminded of your wedding and the wonderful time they had when they look at your favor.
Decor
Look for gifts that add to the decor of your wedding. Is the reception outdoors? You might want to provide a parasol to keep the sun off your guests. By supplying parasols in your wedding colors, you add to the decor and the wedding photos.
Personalize
Think of ways to personalize your gifts. You might consider adding a tag with each guest's name written in script. You might attach your favorite quote or ribbon.
No matter what you decide for your wedding favors, remember they are a token of appreciation to thank your guests. You want everyone to enjoy your wedding as much as you will.
