WEDDING COLORS 2016

If you have seen any of our previous wedding blogs (if you haven’t, I would highly recommend them) for 2016 then you should know that bold colors are very trendy this year. Or as Mugatu would say “They are so hot right now”. But if you are complementing colors challenged like some you may not be able to choose the best colors to go along with your bold color of choice. No worries, it happens to the best of us, which is exactly why we wanted to share some of the best bold color palettes trending for 2016.

Purple and Green

Don’t scroll past just yet! Believe it or not it is one of the biggest growing color trends for weddings, and when done right it is absolutely stunning. I know the thought of purple and green may not scream elegant wedding to you, but let us show you some of the best ways to pull it off.

Deep purples and greens complemented by an almost gold tone give a very earthy and elegant feel.

Coral and Gold

This combination really jumps out at you, but not in a bad way. The bright coral alongside the shimmering gold create a bold and opulent look for your wedding. Gilded invitations, coral dresses with shimmering gold shoes, there are so many ways this color combination can work.

Blue and Green

Blues and greens have always gone well together, but you don’t have to be planning an ocean inspired wedding to use these colors. Matching the right tones of blue and green with an accenting neutral really make the colors pop.

Yellow with shades of pink and green

There isn’t a happier color on earth than yellow. And your wedding day is supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life, right? So putting the two together just makes sense. But you will want to throw in a few softer shades to help tone down the yellow and not let it take over. Soft pinks greens, and a stabilizing neutral color do this beautifully.

Pink and Green

Not big on yellow? That’s ok! Just stick to the pink and green. You can go soft for a romantic feel, but this year is all about the bold color. So don’t be afraid to go all in. You could even throw in a few other of your favorite bold colors, but I would recommend choosing a neutral to try and help bring them all together.

Of course these aren’t all of the color schemes you can choose from, they aren’t even all of the trendy ones, but you may have noticed a theme. Mix and match different shades and hues of your favorite colors and balance them with a neutral of your choice. There are several website that will help you create a color palette of your own! (Paletton.com is a good place to start) So set aside some time to sit down and play around with colors.

WEDDING TRENDS 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!

BRIDES STYLE 2016

Choosing a wedding gown can be a daunting task. There are so many styles and designers, it is a bit of a sensory overload. So we are here to help narrow down your choices. Whether you want a classic bridal look or you want to be the epitome of a “modern bride”, we have the latest bridal gown trends for this year, and there is something for everyone.

Elegant V Neckline

In the past the strapless and sweetheart necklines have ruled the wedding industry, and for good reason. They are gorgeous and flattering necklines, but this year is the year of the V-neck. This neckline gives you the flattering and elegant feel of the sweetheart with the edge and sexiness of the plunging v-neck. It really has created a happy medium between the two styles and can be a great match with any style dress. Ball gown, a-line, mermaid style, etc., they all look great with an elegant v-neck.

Blush and Cream colored dresses

Most of you may not know that the white wedding dress trend was made popular in Western culture by Queen Victoria in the 19^th Century. Many other cultures have very colorful wedding attire, and our trends are slowly starting to move that way, very slowly. We aren’t’ jumping straight to the vivid colors, although there is nothing saying you can’t do that if that is your style! This year blush and cream colored dresses are trending. Just a few shades away from white, these colors add depth to a wedding ceremony and can be more flattering to all types of skin tones.

Floral and Lace

Lace dresses have been growing in popularity for several years. The rise in boho and rustic style weddings has resurrected the lace dress. However, this year they are adding to it. Lace layers on dresses, floral lace patterns, or floral appliqués added to lace dresses. You can’t go wrong blending the two. Of course, if you want you can always keep the lace traditional or go for a floral printed dress if you want to be untraditionally modern.

Cropped Top/ Separates gown

Speaking of ultra modern, one of the largest growing trends is separates or cropped top gowns, showing just a sliver of skin. If done right it can be very chic and elegant. It is casual meets modern and can be the show stopping number of your modern wedding. Also, if you are getting married in the summer, just think of the extra breezeJ!

Feathers

Another modern style that has become popular is feathers. Whether your entire dress is covered in them or they are accenting the rest of the dress, you are sure to stun the crowd.

Now that you know five of the biggest trends this year, hopefully we have helped you narrow down your search. Unfortunately, there are hundreds of styles for each of these trends. Just try on as many dresses as you want and as many styles, because you may be pleasantly surprised in a dress that “isn’t for your body type” or a style you would “never wear”. And there is nothing that says your dress needs to follow trends. This is your day and your dress needs to be an extension of you. So if you don’t want feathers, lace, flowers, or a color, that’s ok! If you want a feathery lace dress, topped with flowers, and every color of the rainbow, then go for it! You do you on your wedding day. 

EMBARRASSING CELEBRITY PROM PHOTOS

Prom season is winding down. Many of you have already purchased your gown or tux, secured your transportation, and prom-posed in the best way possible. Some of you may have already danced the night away. Regardless of where you are in your prom timeline, we know there will be lots of pictures to document your evening. And with the countless pictures being taken, some are bound to be not-so-flattering. 

Embarrassing photos can haunt us for the rest of our life, but no one has to worry about embarrassing photos coming out of nowhere like celebrities. No matter how hard they try to hide then, someone always finds them and shares them with the rest of us.

We picked the top five funniest/most embarrassing celebrity prom photos for your enjoyment. We tried to avoid choosing pictures that were embarrassing because of the fashion of the time. Trends are around for a reason and we all indulge!

So without further ado here they are.

Taylor Swift

Her hair and make-up are flawless, and her dress looks timeless. However, her date with his backwards baseball cap, and throwing up the "west coast" hand gesture makes this picture one we would want hidden from millions of people seeing. 

Taylor Lautner

We have another Taylor on our list. Movie star (and ex boyfriend of the previously mentioned Taylor) has no one to blame for this embarrassing picture but himself. His date is absolutely stunning, but she is overshadowed by the all of Taylor's hair taking up the picture.

Will Ferrell

Funny man, Will Ferrell, rocking a tiara to prom? Something tells me he is very proud of this picture and probably has this framed on his desk.

Ru Paul

I don't think we would expect anything less than dramatic from Mr. Ru Paul. His prom photo, complete with clown shoes, shows he never shied from making a statement.

Michelle Obama

Last, but certainly not least, is the First Lady. If we overlook the wicker throne she is sitting on, I don't think anyone could miss the slit in her dress. I wonder if her daughters will want the same style dress for their prom?

I am sure there are countless other embarrassing prom pictures out there, but we wanted to share our five favorite. You just cant help but snicker when you wonder what went through these people's minds!

Do you have any embarrassing prom pictures? What about your parents or grandparents? We would love to see them if you did!

We hope you had a fun and safe prom season!

TOP 5 UNIQUE PROM THEMES FOR 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

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. ;)  

TIPS FOR ATTENDING A BRIDAL SHOW

HOW TO AVOID HOLIDAY STRESS

1.  Create realistic expectations. If your holidays are more “Christmas with the Griswolds” than a Norman Rockwell painting, that’s alright.  Embrace your situation (and your family) and go with it.

 

2.  Just say “no” to extra obligations. Plan ahead, set priorities of how you will and won’t spend your time this season, and be sure to commit time for things you really want to do during the holidays.  Don't let your son's music teacher make you feel bad if you can't bake six dozen Silent Night cupcakes for the Open House at school tomorrow.

 

3.  Ignore media pressures to overexert and overspend. Remind yourself that these are marketing ploys and don’t give in to pressure to spend and do more.  Do you really need gifts for every person on your street?

 

 

 

 

4.  Set a budget and stick to it. Money problems do not disappear with the glow of holiday lights. Stay the course and give gifts that reflect your personal style, not a high price tag.  Keep the two page credit card bill out of your mailbox in January.

 

5.  Maintain healthy limits.  Eat and drink sensibly, get enough sleep and try to get a little exercise. You’ll be less cranky if you’re taking good care of yourself.  It's more difficult to have a tantrum on a full night's sleep.

 

 

6.  Embrace new holiday traditions.  Create new traditions that fit in better with your family and friends. Review your various holiday activities and let go of those traditions that drain your time, money or energy.

HOLIDAY STYLE TIPS FOR MEN 2014

 

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!

HISTORY OF HALLOWEEN

Halloween is a holiday celebrated on the night of October 31.  The word Halloween is a shortening of All Hallows' Evening also known as Hallowe'en or All Hallows' Eve.

Traditional activities include trick-or-treating, bonfires, costume parties, visiting "haunted houses" and carving jack-o-lanterns. Irish and Scottish immigrants carried versions of the tradition to North America in the nineteenth century. Other western countries embraced the holiday in the late twentieth century including Ireland, the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom as well as of Australia and New Zealand. Halloween has its origins in the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain (pronounced "sah-win"). The festival of Samhain is a celebration of the end of the harvest season in Gaelic culture. Samhain was a time used by the ancient pagans to take stock of supplies and prepare for winter. The ancient Gaels believed that on October 31, the boundaries between the worlds of the living and the dead overlapped and the deceased would come back to life and cause havoc such as sickness or damaged crops.

  The festival would frequently involve bonfires. It is believed that the fires attracted insects to the area which attracted bats to the area. These are additional attributes of the history of Halloween.

Masks and costumes were worn in an attempt to mimic the evil spirits or appease them.