Just Put it on and DON'T be Late

OK, Clever Guys- we’ve discussed the DRESS and what you can expect from that process. Now it's time to move on. Not nearly as important to ANYONE is what YOU will be wearing.You might have an opinion and if you do make sure it is high up on the list you make at the beginning or you will lose all of your bargaining chips early.

You may or may not recall me suggesting both the bride and groom make a top 10 list of the most important aspects of the wedding. Be certain your respective lists will look TOTALLY different.

Her list might read-

1) ceremony location

2) reception venue

3) date

4) dress

5) open bar

6) entertainment

7) cake

8) invitations

9) honeymoon

10) transportation.

Your list might read-

1) bachelor party (Playboy Mansion)

2) entertainment (Pussycat Dolls)

3) cigar roller at reception

4) Scotch bar

5) rehearsal dinner at Hooters

6) attire for men

7) honeymoon (VEGAS)

8) ceremony site (elope)

9) bikini instead of dress for bride

10) bachelor party (Playboy Mansion- important enough to list twice)

Now, in light of the fact you are likely not to get your way on any counts except possibly what you are going to wear- you're in a pretty good position to put your foot down. HOWEVER.

You might envision yourself the gangsta groom, but it probably won’t fly so eliminate all thoughts of the fedora and wallet-to-belt-loop chain. Come on, playa, the vest will be fitted, so no room to pack heat. Besides, it’s wedding not a music video.

Either way, know that finalizing the selection of your attire will be a lengthy and annoying process, much like bra shopping with your mother when you were 11. Try to be patient and enthusiastic. A little research on your part could unearth select boutiques that offer all the trappings of a gentleman-type experience for your entire male entourage - big screens, a bar, an outside area to smoke cigars. Note: in order to avoid an embarrassing situation, make sure the unpredictable groomsman understands the women running the boutique are not prostitutes.

This experience does exist. If you are lucky enough to be in the DFW area- Stardust Celebrations has the above referenced offerings for men. Get the guys together- go for your fitting- watch some sports, have some cocktails- fire up a stogey on the patio and then head out to Hooters, Fox Sports, Champps or Twin Peaks to take in some ice cold beer and sports. It doesn’t have to be a complete ass-kicking.

According to Donnie Brown of Donnie Brown Weddings- there are some new trends in men’s formal wear. "Men are wearing more formal suits in lieu of tuxedos," says Donnie. "I'm seeing more soft leather shoes than patent leather. It’s nice to have that shine, but I don’t think you should be able to use your shoe to see up bridesmaids' dresses!" Oh, Donnie.

I’m thinking Bradley Cooper in "The Hangover"- hmmm. I photographed a wedding in Los Angeles a while back. It took place in the late day and the men were sporting chocolate suits with a vague pinstripe and soft leather chocolate loafers- YUM. They looked fantastic and as it turned out the attire was Gucci head to toe. That was probably why my fire started. Big fan.Huge. The point is- you don't have to wear a traditional tuxedo or even black. As a matter of fact, chocolate or grey is a lovely option for a morning, day or afternoon wedding, and both transition well into the evening for reception attire.

Regardless of how you acquire the attire you will be wearing- you will put it on and be there on time. It’s really your ONLY responsibility that day. Get dressed. Show up. Got it?

OK Clever Couples- if you need more information ASAP- check out these articles or e-mail me directly and I will hook you up with some fantastic vendors free of charge. Love being your "wedding agent"- and thank you to those brides who have already trusted me to guide them to professionals in three states! I'm sorry, I know no one in London- yet. If you are in the wedding industry in London send me your websites for review and I’d be happy to start connecting brides and vendors!

How about that game last night- OMGOSH. What a fantastic effort on the part of Butler- if they keep at it, they will continue to be a threat for years to come- that is if Brad Stevens' mom lets him continue to masquerade as an adult.

Let's hit baseball this week- it's a great time because my home team- Detroit Tigers have a winning record and I'm not sure how long that will hold.