Articles posted by the man registry

Bachelor Parties

The Man Registry with Bachelor Party Cocktail Ideas

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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Photography by The Wiebners – see more at www.thewiebners.com


In today’s rough economic times, we’re seeing a lot of bachelor parties being held at homes instead of the bars. Doing the party this way allows everyone to drink cheaper and also lends itself to creative mixology. Here are a few recipes that The Man Registry team can personally vouch for.

  1. Jungle Juice – This concoction is best known as a college party drink. Need I say more?

    • Ingredients: (Makes enough for the entire party)
      2 liters of Everclear
      1 gallon of orange juice
      4 liters of Sprite
      2 quarts of cranberry juice
      2 quarts of iced tea
      1 gallon of red Hawaiian Punch
      4 oranges
      4 apples
      2 limes
    • Directions – Pour the Everclear into a large cooler or Tupperware container, add in all of the mixers and stir, cut up the fruit and drop into the finished product.
  2. California Gold Rush – A great looking cocktail that most people have never heard of.
    • Ingredients:
      12 oz. 7-Up
      2 oz. Vodka
      1.5 oz. Goldschlager
    • Directions – Pour 7-Up and SLOWLY stir in Vodka and Goldschlager.
  3. Best Man Speech – The drink gets its name because of the number of best man speeches it has been directly responsible for destroying.
    • Ingredients:
      3 beers
      3 shots of whiskey
      1 can of frozen pink lemonade
    • Directions – Pour the beer, vodka, and lemonade into a pitcher and mix. Serve ice cold.

As always, we encourage everyone to be responsible during the bachelor party. The great thing about holding the party at the home of the groom or best man is that it gives everyone a place to crash for the night. If someone insists on leaving, make sure the number of a local cab company is made available.

Cheers!

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The Man Registry on the Father of the Groom’s Game Plan

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by A Bryan Johnson Photo – see more at www.abryanphoto.com

Here’s a quick guide on what the F.O.G. is expected to help out with throughout the wedding planning process:

Right After She Says “Yes!”

  • Review what the groom’s family pays for. Although wedding traditions are always changing, this is a good starting point for planning. If this list gives you an uneasy feeling, just be thankful you don’t have to pay for a dress!
  • Share some wedding advice with your son. This is a great time to share any wedding traditions that have been passed down in the family.
  • Start thinking about rehearsal dinner sites. No matter if you’re helping pay for the wedding or not, the bride and groom will appreciate your input.

The Month and Days Before the Wedding

  • Arrange plans for a rehearsal dinner caterer and venue. If helping pay – put down payments down for both.
  • Assist with or offer input on the groom’s cake, honeymoon planning, wedding day transportation, and choosing of groomsmen gifts.
  • Attend the bachelor party (and see if you can’t keep up with the boys.)
  • Attend any couples or groom wedding showers.
  • Get fitted for the tux 2-3 weeks before the wedding. Pick up your tux on the day of the rehearsal.

Rehearsal Day

  • Help make final phone calls the caterer to make sure all plans are finalized and running on schedule.
  • Attend the rehearsal and memorize your schedule for the wedding day.
  • Serve as MC of the rehearsal dinner. This includes welcoming everyone and giving a toast to the bride and groom.

The Wedding Day

  • Spend some one-on-one time with your son on the morning of the wedding. Some ideas are a round of golf, a fishing excursion, or a breakfast with just the two of you.
  • Help out-of-town relatives with directions.
  • Enjoy the ceremony and reception (try not to cry.)
  • Dance with the bride!
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The Man Registry on Grooming Tips for the Groom

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by Jeff Newsom – see more at www.jeffnewsom.com

Your wedding day is one of the times that you won’t get by with greasy hair, chewed nails, and wearing your dirty alma mater hoodie. We know it’s not always easy for us guys to take the time to look good (it’s just so much easier not to). Here are some simple steps the groom can take to look his best on the big day:

Hair Cut
This one’s obvious. Get your hair cut about a week in advance of the wedding. Stick to your normal barber and with your usual style. You don’t want to experiment with a new look that you’re not going to be able to undo before the wedding.

Try a Manicure/Pedicure
All joking aside, trying a manicure/pedicure might not be a bad idea. There are sure to be many up close photos of the rings, so you want your nails to look great. Plus, they’re actually kind of relaxing (or so we hear).

Get a Massage
Who doesn’t love a massage? If you’ve never been to a professional masseuse, we strongly recommend it. It’s the perfect way to release all of that wedding planning stress and tension. If you’re looking for a creative groomsmen gift, how about treating all of your boys to one as well?

Take a Trip to the Dentist
Can you even remember the last time you had a dentist appointment? Get your teeth cleaned about a month before the wedding and continue your normal brushing routine. (3 times a day, right?)

Tickets to the Gun Show
Many groom-to-be’s start a workout routine in the months before the wedding in order to get ripped for the big day as well as the honeymoon. Our advice is to push back your tux fitting as long as possible so you can take account for your bulging biceps.

Eat Well, Drink Well
Keeping a good diet will contribute greatly to your wedding day looks. Drink lots of water to keep your skin healthy and clear. Avoid fast food to maintain that physique you’ve worked so hard to develop. Of course, we’d tell you to cut out beer – but we want to be taken seriously.

What grooming tips do the readers of mywedding.com have to share?

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The Man Registry on a Wedding Full of Team Spirit

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by Henry Chen Photography – see more at www.henrychenphotography.com

If a sports fanatic gets married, does anyone notice?

Once again, one of the greatest times of the year has arrived. March Madness is here and we pity any sports fan that was dumb enough to schedule his wedding on any of the next three weekends.

In fact, there are several other times of the year where weddings should be outlawed: Super Bowl Sunday, any weekend in October, during the Master, etc. This got us to thinking, when is a safe time of the year for a sports fanatic to get married?

The sad truth for you grooms out there is that there really are no safe zones. Sports go on year-round and no matter when you get married, you’re going to miss something. So, unless you’re willing to cancel the wedding to watch a game – your best bet is to try and incorporate some team loyalty into your wedding.

Here are some ways that you can get married (and still show your team spirit)

Groom’s Cake
A team-themed grooms’ cake has become a very popular choice among grooms recently. The groom’s cake is a secondary wedding cake that is dedicated to the man and often is designed with his interest’s in mind. See if you’re cake shop can make you a cake featuring the logo of your favorite squad.

Color Themes
This option is best if you and your fiancé have a favorite team or went to the same school. Consider having the bridesmaid’s dresses or groom’s ties feature the color scheme of your team. Brides often get excited about incorporating their alumni colors into the wedding, so this shouldn’t be a hard sell, guys.

Rehearsal Dinner Venue
Many stadiums, arenas, and sports venues offer banquet rooms that you can rent out for an evening. Just imagine how great it would be to hold your rehearsal dinner at Busch Stadium in beautiful downtown St. Louis (yes, we’re biased here at TMR). These rooms often book up fast, so start planning early!

Of course, if all else fails – just have some big screens installed around the reception site! Surely, the bride won’t mind…Will she?

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The Man Registry on Keeping the Rehearsal Dinner Budget Under Control

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by The Wiebners – see more at www.thewiebners.com

Is the ‘ol wallet feeling a little light lately?

Only playing 9 holes instead of 18?

Not ordering that 2nd drink at dinner?

It’s no secret that we’re living in a horrible economy. If you happen to be unlucky enough to be planning a wedding right now – you’re probably feeling the hurt a little more than the rest of us. With that being said, most couples say that they’re more likely to trim down the big day budget rather than postpone the wedding altogether.

As the groom, one of your biggest financial responsibilities is planning the rehearsal dinner. While this event is not as extravagant as the reception, it can still prove to be very costly. Here are a few quick tips on keeping the budget under control and keeping a few extra bucks in your pocket.

Limit The Invites
Traditionally, the rehearsal dinner guest list includes immediate family as well as all members of the wedding party. It’s always a nice gesture to include guests who have traveled in from afar. But to put it bluntly, those are just more mouths to feed. If you’re on a tight budget, keep the guest list limited to those in the wedding and immediate family.

Hold the Rehearsal Dinner at a Park or Home
You don’t have to hold this event at a fancy dining hall and get an expensive caterer to make it great. Even in a normal economy, some couples choose to make the rehearsal dinner very low key by doing a BBQ or getting the event catered at home. In fact, many guests will prefer this as its one less event they have to get formally dressed up for.

No Liquor
Wow, I can’t believe those words just came out of my mouth. But, truth be told, bar tabs rack up fast and doing a liquor free event can really keep costs down. Now, be prepared that this may not sit well with some relatives or your beer-loving Best Man. A great way to counter that is by encouraging everyone to meet up at a bar afterwards to visit and have some drinks (on their own dime).

What other ideas do the reads of mywedding.com have for keeping the rehearsal dinner affordable? We’d love to hear them.

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TheManRegistry.com on a Co-Ed Wine Tasting Party

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by A Bryan Johnson Photo – see more at www.abryanphoto.com

Grooms, if you dare break the 1st rule of the bachelor party – no women allowed…you better have something special planned. Co-ed bachelor parties that include the groom, the bride, and both sets of friends can be a major hit or a major miss. So, you must be weary of this venture! However, should you decide to step into the murky waters, here’s an idea that will surely be accepted by all – a wine tasting adventure!

Wine tasting is an activity that both sexes can get excited about. Assuming you reside in an area rich with vineyards, this option can make for a very fine co-ed bachelor(ette) party. Now this may come as a surprise, but you don’t have to be in California to make this trip a reality. Washington, Oregon, and yes even Missouri are churning out some of the country’s best wine.

If you’re a Best Man or Maid of Honor setting up a wine-tasting trip, here are some tips to help with the planning:

  • Do your research. Find an area with multiple wineries.
  • Call ahead and make sure your choices can accommodate larger groups.
  • This kind of trip can get pricey, so ask everyone to chip in a few bucks to lessen the burden on you.
  • Rent a bus or trolley that can take everyone from stop to stop. This one is important so everyone can enjoy the drinks without worrying about a designated driver.
  • Plan lunch and dinner stops along the way. The last thing you want is half of the group being passed out after the 2nd stop (then again, if they can’t keep up why are you friends with them in the first place?)
  • If it’s an overnight trip, book a hotel well in advance. If you’re going home, make sure you have safe transportation for everyone.
  • Have the guests chip in at each stop and buy a bottle for the newlyweds-to-be. Tell them that these bottles can only be opened on anniversaries.

If you’re not into wine and this still sounds like a fun trip – look into beer tastings, chocolate tastings, or local restaurant tastings. There are fantastic selections available for any food or drink tasting tours or trips in most metropolitan areas. It’s about having a great time ALL together!

Cheers!

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The Man Registry With the Groom’s Wedding Day Checklist

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

Photography by David Payne Photography

We’re going to make this easy for you, grooms. There’s a lot to keep track of and remember on your wedding day. And oftentimes, some of the most basic things are sometimes the easiest to forget. But with the help of your Best Man and this handy checklist, you should be able to plan ahead and prevent major disaster.

Here’s what not to forget on the big day:

Basic attire

Tux basics: coat, shirt and expandable trousers
Cummerbund or vest
Bow tie or straight tie
Cufflinks
Socks that match your tux (generally black)
Tux shoes

Ceremony

Bride’s wedding band
Marriage license
Payment for the Officiant
Donation for the church

Emergency Kit

Food and water
Deodorant
Comfortable shoes (for before you change into tux)
Nail clippers
Hair brush or comb
Hair gel
Tooth brush & tooth paste
Dental floss
Lip balm
Tylenol or Aspirin
Antacid (not that you’d be nervous or anything…)
Prescription medicines
Eye drops
Band-aids
Sunscreen
Insect repellant (if the wedding or reception is outdoors)
Watch or clock
Lint roller
Extra under shirts
Extra black socks
Extra cufflinks
Shoe polish
Sunglasses
Phone numbers of the wedding party

Most important thing to remember

Enjoy every minute!

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The Man Registry with Post-Engagement Advice

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

Photography by Milton Gil

Our resident groom planning and style expert Simon Daykin has some great tips on how to handle life after you pop the question (assuming she says yes).

Congratulations, you asked her, and she said yes! Now what do you do to make this engagement process run smoothly? I speak to many guys who are kind of lost in this area. They never seem quite sure what to do. Do they leave her to plan the wedding? Do they insert themselves into the process? And if so, how involved should they get? What I always tell them is that yes, they should get involved and support her, but they also need to remind her that while it is a big day, it is just one day. I have put together a few simple tips to help keep your relationship healthy while planning the wedding

Even when you’re engaged you can still date
Have you noticed that after you asked her to marry you, wedding magazines started magically appearing around the house? All she wants to talk about is the wedding and all the details, “What do you think of this venue, baby?” I’ve been there. I remember a few days after I proposed to my wife, while I slept in; she popped out and bought 5 wedding magazines. They were everywhere from the kitchen counters to the bathroom. It’s important to take some time away from the planning to get back to reality. So, have a date night. You can take her out to a nice restaurant that you have been dying to try or you can even make it a night in. Cook her a special meal, rent a film she wants to see and open a bottle of wine. The important thing is to use this time to reconnect with her and NOT talk about the wedding during this time.

Get by with a little help from your friends
When did you become the boring engaged couple that only talks about their wedding? Not all your friends will be in the same “space” as you are. Remember to continue to hang out with your friends. You’re still the same person you were before you popped the question. Make sure they know this. Hanging out with friends will give you both a break from the wedding planning. It gets other perspectives into your lives and fun with friends is never a bad thing. Don’t hide yourself away in your home and become a planning hermit. I’ve seen it happen, it ain’t pretty.

Insert yourself into the process
Don’t be afraid to be a part of the process. I cannot stress this enough. The wedding day should be a combination of BOTH your dreams and personalities. So get in there…offer ideas and opinions. Take on some of the duties. Let your bride to be know that you want to be involved. This will not only take some of the stress and pressure off her, but it will also get some of your ideas into the wedding. Take specific tasks and do them yourself. Find the DJ, take care of the Honeymoon, pick the menu and help create a wedding registry. These are simple things that can be fun to do.

Who doesn’t like getting a gift?
Now, I’m not talking something big here, just a small token of appreciation for all of her hard work in planning. I suggest keeping your eyes and ears open when you go out together and see what she’s looking at in store windows. Then, surprise her with one of the things she had her eye on. And don’t forget the card. I know, I know. I never used to get cards but I have learned that my wife LOVES cards. Now, I make sure I get a unique card to accompany any gift I give her. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, how about doing something that doesn’t cost anything like helping her create a wedding website at mywedding.com or load her iPod with some e-books or articles about weddings.

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Groom’s Etiquette Expert on Having a Best WoMan

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

Photography by Jeff Newsom

Question:
“My older sister is my best friend! Would it be acceptable if she were the Best WoMan at my wedding?”

Groom’s Etiquette Expert, Chris Easter’s Answer:
Grooms, this is a lot more common than you think. Selecting your Best Man is all about finding the person that you want standing beside you on one of the most important days of your life. If this happens to be your sister, you shouldn’t let perceived standards hold you back. Your wedding is about you, so you should absolutely ask your sister to be Best Man (or WoMan). Although I do recommend letting her wear a dress instead of a tux!

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The Man Registry with a Double Header Night

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

Photography by Ashley Brokop Photography

Believe it or not, date nights don’t have to end once the wedding planning is in full force. In fact, going on a date is a great way to get away from the stresses and frustrations of wedding planning. For all of you brides and grooms busting your behinds to get every detail correct, doesn’t a night without any discussion of tuxes, centerpieces and groomsmen gift ideas sound so appealing right about now?

Date night doesn’t necessarily mean going out…how about a night in? An all-time favorite for date night is – you guessed it – movie night. However, with tensions likely to be high due to wedding stress, a little love quarrel may arise out of who gets to pick the movie. But, have no fear; we’re here to recommend the be-all-end-all of date nights: the doubleheader.

How does it work? It’s very simple. First, make sure to choose a evening that allows you to stay up late. Next, you both pick a flick (preferably not having to do with weddings), and enjoy a nice night at home with a pizza delivery at intermission. Lastly, find that sweet spot on the sofa, snuggle up and press play!

Need suggestions on movies? Done. We gathered up the guys and gals here at TMR and took a poll of some memorable films we’ve seen recently. Here’s our list of suggestions from both sides:

The Ladies:
Confessions of a Shopaholic (sorry, guys)
Marly & Me
Swing Vote
Twilight
Seven Pounds

The Gents:
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Slumdog Millionaire
Eagle Eye
Defiance
Taken

What movie suggestions do the readers of mywedding.com have for Doubleheader Movie Date Night?

The Man Registry with How to Keep the Honeymoon Cheap(er)

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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Photography by Barbie Hull

Planning a wedding without a huge budget can be downright scary. The recent surge in DIY wedding concepts is evidence that today’s brides and grooms are cutting back. Here at The Man Registry, we are very excited about this trend. We definitely agree that there are ways to bring wedding costs down to meet your budget. And believe it or not, making the honeymoon a little more affordable is very possible.

The honeymoon is one of the bigger drains on the wedding budget. The trip is traditionally paid for by the groom – however, today’s couples often share the cost. Here are a few quick tips that may be helpful in your planning:

Consider a cruise

It may come as a surprise, but cruises are traditionally much cheaper than doing a resort. You want to remember that food is normally included in the trip cost. If you’re not big drinkers, you won’t be racking up a huge bar tab and your only other expenses will be souvenirs and on-shore excursions.

Keep the trip shorter
Depending on your destination, planning a weekend honeymoon is often more affordable than a week-long vacation. It’s not ideal, but it sure beats doing nothing or completely delaying the honeymoon.

Road trip
Consider going on a U.S. road trip rather than leaving the country. Gas prices have fallen since their peak a few summers back, and if you use a trip planning website you can find cheap hotels along the way. Use the same website to find cheap lodging at your destination. One of the most popular trending honeymoon destinations are mountain areas. These spots are ideal for travel by car.

Do a short trip now and a long one later
Another alternative is doing a short weekend or one-night trip immediately after the wedding and then waiting until there is enough money to do an all-out trip.

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The Man Registry With the Gift That Never Disappoints

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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Photography by Viera Photographics

Don’t feel like giving the standard flask, personalized money clip, or matching bridal jewelry to your wedding party members? Believe it or not, there actually are some alternative options out there.

One of our couples passed along a great idea for wedding party gifts: personalized bottles of liquor for each party member. They created separate labels for each using Photoshop and sticker paper (any design program will work).

The labels could be something like this:

Nate’s Best Man Courage Juice

Lisa’s White Zin “Drink straight from the bottle”

Danny’s Dreaded Tequila “If the bottle’s empty before the wedding, we’re all in trouble”

They printed the new labels onto a sticker and replaced the labels on the bottles with their own unique works. For a bonus touch, they gave engraved shot and wine glasses to accompany the bottles. The gifts were presented at the rehearsal dinner, and amazingly everyone was able to fully function the next morning for their wedding day duties!

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The Man Registry on Cold Feet

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by The Wiebners – see more at www.thewiebners.com

Feeling nervous guys? Most grooms do get a little nervous right before their wedding day, and the rest probably would if they weren’t staying so busy that they didn’t have time to register their own thoughts. But don’t worry men; getting cold feet or being nervous is totally normal.

The most common type of cold feet usually surfaces within one week of the wedding day. This is very common, and there can be several causes, ranging from the fear of being with the same person forever, as well as the seriousness that should be taken with this step in life. Once you’re married, you can’t just get in a fight one night and decide to call it quits. (Actually, you can, but it’s very expensive and can be very embarrassing for you and your spouse).

By this point, you should know your fiancée well and have gone through some type of marriage prep classes. If you’ve made it this far, the real fears probably either stem from standing up in front of all of your friends and family during the wedding ceremony or worrying about how your bride will react if things don’t go exactly as planned. So how can you get past these feelings? It’s a good idea to take some time for yourself the week of your wedding. Whether you like to golf, smoke cigars or go to the ball game, make a point to do something fun with your groomsmen or best man to get your mind off of the big day. So much time is put into this day, but most likely, everything probably won’t work out exactly the way it was planned. And that’s OK. If your nerves are still bothering you, talk to your best man, a friend or a close family member to help you through it.

On the other hand, if you get cold feet a month or two before the wedding, you should really ask yourself why you’re stressing. Don’t worry; it may just be natural groom stress from the planning, but it could also be a sign that things may not be quite as great as you first thought. All couples go through ups and downs when planning their wedding. You just need to learn to roll with the punches, but at the same time, you need to realize that this is the person you’ll spend the rest of your life with. If you think it’s more than just nerves, there are several things that could help. First, if you haven’t already done so, go to some marriage preparation classes. These aren’t nearly as fun as watching any sporting event (including underwater basket-weaving), but they can prove to be very beneficial, and in some cases, bring some very important conversations to light between you and your bride. If you’re still unsure about things, try going to a therapist or seeing a clergy member. You can either do this together or alone. This is the time to expose any problems you may have, and discussing these issues with a professional can be very helpful. But most likely, if you’ve gotten this far, you know your fiancée well and are just going through normal feelings.

TheManRegistry.com Recommendation: Virtually every groom (and bride, for that matter) will get some type of cold feet before the wedding. Just make sure you’re both prepared for this step, and most importantly, take some time to relax during the week of the wedding. If there’s still any doubt, talk to each other or seek the help of friends, family or a professional.

The Man Registry on Rules of Engagement – Parties

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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While engagement parties aren’t a required part of the wedding process, they can be a great way to announce and celebrate your engagement with your friends and family. If you’ve recently become engaged, the following questions should help you figure out if an engagement party is something that interests you. And if you’re researching ways to throw an engagement party, these questions should help you start planning the celebration.

WHO throws the engagement party?
Traditionally, the bride’s family has been responsible for throwing an engagement party. But today, it’s very common for the party to be thrown by the groom’s family or a combination of both families. It’s also quite common for a friend of the couple to host the party or hold a small get together. There really are no set rules for this type of event – even the groom can plan the celebration.

WHAT type of party?
The term “party” can sometimes be confusing. An engagement party doesn’t have to be an all-out bash. It certainly can be a fancy affair, but it’s often a more casual gathering of family and close friends. It can even be as simple as dinner at a favorite restaurant or an afternoon BBQ in the backyard. Gifts should be optional. The most important thing to remember is that the party should reflect the interests and style of the couple.

WHEN is the party?
Engagement parties are typically held one to three months after the engagement, giving those hosting the party plenty of time to prepare. If you’re planning on a short engagement, it’s best to have the engagement party sooner rather than later. You want to be sure that the engagement party doesn’t feel like an early wedding shower.

WHERE is the party?
The most common location for the engagement party is the home of the person or people throwing the party. However, other locations can offer an equally enjoyable celebration. Some popular alternative venues are to consider are a favorite restaurant or bar, a rented suite at a sporting event, or even a park. Again, the decision should always come down to the style of the couple and the type of setting that fits them best.

WHY have an engagement party?
An engagement party is a couple’s first chance to celebrate their decision to get married with their friends and family. Oftentimes, it can also give the bride’s and groom’s families a chance to formally meet each other, if they haven’t done so already.

TheManRegistry.com Recommendation: If you really want to impress your bride-to-be, plan a surprise party the night of your engagement. Nobody said you can’t throw this party yourself!

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The Man Registry on The Groom’s Wedding Ring

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by Whitebox Weddings- see more at www.whiteboxweddings.com

Grooms, once you’ve taken care of the engagement ring and mastered the art of getting down on one knee, it’s time to check off another important milestone in the wedding process. Yep, it’s time to go back to the jeweler. But don’t pass out just yet, guys. This time it’s all about you, and it most likely won’t be your pocketbook that’s taking the hit. Generally, if you’ve paid for your fiancée’s engagement ring and wedding band, the common etiquette suggests that she’ll cover your wedding band.

But before you start thinking you don’t really need a wedding band, think again. Although women understand that most guys aren’t crazy about jewelry, your bride-to-be probably won’t let you off the hook without a wearing one after you’re married. Once you understand that, it’s time to start looking for the ring that’s right for you.

First, it’s important to select your band at least one month before your wedding, so there will be plenty of time to deal with any problems related to size or availability. Before you head to the jeweler, it’s helpful to research the types of bands you’re interested in before you step in a store so you won’t be overwhelmed by all of the different options. Believe it or not, there are many different kinds of men’s wedding bands available. Some have different metals, different fits, grooves or engraving, or inset stones. You should also discuss this with your fiancée to decide whether it’s important that your band should match hers. The more knowledge you have before heading in the jewelry store, the better.

There are several different types of metals that wedding bands are made from, and each has its pros and cons. While it often comes down to personal preference and price, probably the most common type of metal used is either white or yellow gold. Gold has several benefits, including its light weight. If you’ve never worn a ring, gold might be a more comfortable option for you. Another popular option is platinum, which is one of the most expensive metals available. However, another caveat is its weight. You’ll definitely remember it’s on your finger. Other options include titanium, sterling silver and palladium. All of these options have their advantages, so it’s important to discuss them with your jeweler before making your decision.

In addition to the metal you choose, some guys like to add diamonds or other gems to their rings. This is another area where it helps to do some research before hitting the stores. Your jeweler should be able to offer you several different options to compare.

Another important decision is the fit of the ring. There are several options ranging from classic to what’s called a “comfort” fit. The main difference between the fits is whether or not the edge of the ring is rounded or straight cut. We recommend at least trying on a comfort fit band, which are popular because they truly are comfortable and don’t dig into your skin, making it easier to get used to your band if you typically don’t wear jewelry.

TheManRegistry.com Recommendation: Choosing your wedding band is one of the major decisions you’ll make during the engagement process. So it naturally pays to do some research. Make your trip to the jeweler as painless as possible by talking with your fiancée and picking out a couple of different ring options ahead of time. That way, the decisions at the store will be much easier. Finally, as with your fiancée’s ring, it’s wise to look into ring insurance. You’d be amazed at how many guys tend to lose them as early as on their honeymoons (while swimming, playing golf, etc.).

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The Man Registry on the Groom’s Contribution to the Reception Playlist

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
12489002
Photography by The Wiebners – see more at www.thewiebners.com

The average wedding guest will tell you that they’re more apt to have a great time at the wedding reception if they see the groom and bride out on the dance floor enjoying themselves. The playlist at the reception can be a huge factor in determining the mood, feeling, and overall enjoyment level of your guests.

Whether you hire a band or DJ, you should have the option of creating a playlist and a “do not” playlist. The playlist should incorporate songs that have special meaning to the newlyweds and to their families. The “do not” playlist should obviously consist of songs that you don’t want to hear on your wedding day (groom tip from Captain Obvious: this also includes any song that you and any ex-girlfriends used to dance to). It never hurts to get input from both sets of parents on any songs they would like to hear at the reception. They may like to share a dance to a special song they danced to on their wedding day.

Three specific songs will need to be chosen with utmost care. These songs are for the bride and groom’s first dance, the father-daughter dance, and the mother-son dance. For the newlywed’s dance, the song choice will usually come pretty easily. Chances are there’s a special song that has meant a lot to both of you while you’ve been dating.

A very smart idea is to start making mental notes of songs you hear at other weddings or gatherings to see which ones do or don’t work for your tastes.

If you’re on a tight budget for the reception, another popular recent trend is to not hire a band or DJ at all. Instead, couples have been hooking an mp3 player to a sound system and saving a few bucks. This option allows you to create a wedding reception playlist right on your computer. The only drawback is the lack of an announcer. But if you’re set on this option, a relative, friend, or even the best man might be willing to step up and take on this role during the reception to help keep the evening’s events moving smoothly.

TheManRegistry.com Recommendation: Go with a nice mixture of older classics and some newer favorites that are popular with you and your friends. This way, everyone has a chance to hit the dance floor to a song they know, no matter their age.

TheManRegistry.com Bonus Recommendation: Considering the chicken dance?…. Don’t.

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The Man Registry on Planning Rehearsal Dinner

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by Chris + Lynn Photography – see more at www.chrispluslynn.com

Arguably the largest wedding planning responsibility for the groom and his family will be putting together the rehearsal dinner. While not on the same size scale as the wedding reception, there is still plenty to remember when planning this event. If you don’t have experience planning an event, how will you remember everything without losing your mind? We’ve learned that for most grooms, the easiest way to start the planning process is organizing everything into a timeline. Doing it this way eases stress and lays out a road map on what needs to happen when.

9-12 MONTHS OUT – It may seem like a long way out to start planning the rehearsal dinner, but you must keep in mind that if you want the best venue and caterer you’ve got to strike early.

  • Locate and secure a venue. Determine what the deposit amount is and when the final balance will be due.
  • If you’ll be using a caterer, book one as soon as possible (caterers are often booked up to a year in advance).
  • Get a list of menu options from the venue or caterer. It’s also helpful to ask for a list of the venue’s and catering company’s policies.
  • Carefully review your vendors’ contracts and make sure everything fits your needs before signing on the dotted line.

5-6 MONTHS OUT – Time to start thinking about specifics.

  • Decide on the specifics (menu options, open or cash bar, etc.) and try out the different types of wedding food that your caterer offers.
  • Begin preparing the guest list and order invitations. If you’re trying to keep the event smaller, you may decide to invite only the wedding party and immediate family. For a larger affair, you’ll also want to consider inviting any out of town guests and extended family members or special life-long friends.
  • Begin compiling the addresses of all invited guests (this is not as easy as it sound, guys).
  • Decide if you want to do anything special for the event. Some couples decide to do the toasts at the rehearsal dinner while others show a video montage of photos set to favorite songs of the couple.

1 -2 MONTHS OUT – Getting closer.

  • Address and send out invitations.
  • Begin keeping detailed record of responses.
  • Choose any special linens, flower arrangements, or decorations you’ll be using at the venue (again, get help from the bride or your mom).

1 WEEK OUT – Final pre-game walkthroughs.

  • Let the caterer know your final head count.
  • Determine a final count on small children that will be attending (their meals are typically provided free of charge).
  • Draw up a seating chart if you’re using one (tip – don’t sit ex’s next to each other)..

DAY OF – Game time!

  • Visit the venue during the day to make sure everything is properly set up.
  • After the event, make sure your family or friends check for any personal belongings that may have been left behind.
  • Pay any outstanding balances to the caterer or venue.

Don’t stress out about planning, guys. Planning ahead makes things easier and creates more time for things you actually want to do.

Cheers!

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The Man Registry on Destination Weddings

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
12488880
Photography by Milton Gil- see more at www.miltongil.com

Always dreamed of getting married on the beach or in the mountains? If you and your bride-to-be are an adventurous, travel-loving couple, a destination wedding may be a perfect fit. These events usually take place in a tropical or beachfront location, but creativity is the key. If you want to get married at the top of Mount Smokey, do it! It’s typically the groom’s responsibility to plan and book a destination wedding. Start your research here by learning the basics.

Perks
Although typically smaller and less formal than a traditional wedding, there are some definite perks in choosing a destination wedding. First and foremost, the location doubles as your honeymoon destination, so you won’t have to get up at 5 am the day after the wedding to catch a flight that you could be on all day. If you’re really trying to sell your fiancée on a destination wedding, be sure to tell her how much less stressful it can be to plan compared to a standard wedding. Traditional weddings can be very stressful. With so many things that need to happen exactly as planned, it’s easy to see why the bride and groom can spend a lot of their wedding day worrying about things going properly rather than enjoying every moment. With a destination wedding, the setting can often be much more intimate and low-key.

Where?
In the words of Tony “Scarface” Montana, the world is your oyster. Think about what parts of the world you and your fiancée enjoy the most. Beachfront? Mountains? Siberia? Destination wedding locations are plentiful, so do your research! Here are some popular destinations to help get you started:

Who should be invited?
The guest list for destination weddings is typically small. Most destination weddings include just the immediate family and wedding party. However, there’s no size limit. Often times, an open invite is sent to friends and family and those who can afford to make the trip do so. It’s not the responsibility of the bride and groom to provide travel arrangements for anyone. However, if it’s in the budget, it’s always nice to chip in for the parents’ travel costs.

It’s also common to invite your guests to stay for a few days after the wedding to extend the celebration and further explore the destination. After all, they’ll have traveled a long way to be a part of the festivities. You don’t want to put them right back on a plane the morning after the wedding.

When to book?
When planning and booking a destination wedding, think about it as if you’re planning a honeymoon (because, in actuality, you are). You’ll want to have the trip planned and booked around six months prior to the big day. Many resorts offer all-inclusive destination wedding packages. Do your research thoroughly. It may be easier to schedule and plan a destination wedding compared with a traditional wedding, but you still want it to be perfect.

Legality
Perhaps the most important thing to research when planning a destination wedding is the legality of the marriage. Every country has certain laws involving legal marriages. Maybe two American citizens can’t legally be wed in the destination country of your choice. That doesn’t mean a ceremony can’t take place there; it just means that the couple may need to secure a civil union in the states before heading off to the destination. The staff at the resort you’re looking into will be able to help shed more light on the specific laws of their country. Just make sure to check into these details up front, so you’ll have plenty of time to secure any required paperwork and so that there won’t be any surprises later on.

Upset about leaving everyone out?
Many couples hold a special wedding reception at home either before or after the destination wedding so that they can include everyone who won’t be able to make the long distance trip.

TheManRegistry.com: Do some research to find out if you’re a good match for a destination wedding. They aren’t for everyone. But if you’ve always pictured saying your vows on an island, mountain top, etc., do it! Nothing beats sipping tropical drinks on the beach moments after taking your vows!

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Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Grooms Toasts

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
12488865
Photography by Anna Kuperberg – see more at www.kuperberg.com
The Groom’s Toast: Secrets to Success

Grooms are expected at some point to give a toast that focuses on their feelings about the bride and close up the event. As you can imagine, this toast requires some careful thought. You don’t want to get up there, wing it, and make a fool of yourself. Whether it’s delivered at the rehearsal dinner or the wedding reception, this will often be the last toast of the evening – one that people will remember. But don’t sweat it. Follow these simple guidelines to deliver a great toast that everyone will enjoy, remember, and you may even score major points with your bride-to-be.

Groom’s guidelines for a SUCCESSFUL TOAST:

1. The toast should start by thanking everyone for coming. Some guests will have come from across town, while others may have traveled long distances. It’s important to let them know how much it means to you and your bride that they could share in this important occasion with you.

2. Keep humor to a minimum during your toast. Humorous toasts are best left to the best man or maid of honor. This is the time when you want to demonstrate your maturity and show everyone that you’re ready to start your new life as a married man.

3. From there, it’s always a good idea to thank your wedding party, either individually by name or as an entire group. At the minimum, these people have paid for wedding attire, but most likely they’ve been there to support you along the way. Take this opportunity to show them your gratitude.

4. Next, both sets of parents should be recognized for obvious reasons.

5. The closing comments should be directed toward the bride. Make sure to plan out these comments in advance. Take this opportunity to let her and everyone else know how much she means to you and how lucky you are to have her as your wife.

Prepare and Practice! Sit down a week or so before the wedding and put together a list of things you’d like to say about each of the people you’ll be toasting in your speech. You can either create an outline to work from or type up the entire speech and print it out. It’s always a good idea to practice your toast at least a couple of times beforehand, especially if you plan on having a couple of drinks before the toast. Most importantly, relax and enjoy yourself – this is your day.

– Chris Easter | The Man Registry

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Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Grooms Cakes

Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
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Photography by Cameron Ingalls – see more at www.cameroningalls.com

All About The Groom’s Cake

One of the more popular wedding trends has become adding a groom’s cake to the festivities. That’s right, guys – a cake just for you. The groom and his family usually provide this cake. While it isn’t a necessity, a groom’s cake can often be a nice complement to the wedding cake or even serve as a dessert for the rehearsal dinner.

The groom’s cake usually represents an integral part of the groom’s life. If you’re a pilot, your groom’s cake might be an airplane. If you’re into fishing, a cake with your favorite type of fish might be nice. The great thing about the groom’s cake is that it’s all about the groom and what he likes.

Some popular themes for the groom’s cake include:

  • Sports teams logos or mascots
  • Hobbies (golf, fishing, hunting, boating, the Rubik’s cube)
  • Line of work (police, firefighter, military, vet)
  • College alma mater (especially if that’s where you met your bride-to-be
  • Hometown

    • The groom’s cake is commonly placed at a table near the wedding cake at the reception. However, you want to be careful not to steal the spotlight from the actual wedding cake. Even though you’re getting your own cake, guys, don’t forget that this is a secondary cake.

    Another option is to have the groom’s cake served as dessert at the rehearsal dinner. This often makes sense to the groom and his family because they’re often already paying for this event. It could even turn out to be a less expensive alternative to your caterer’s dessert options.

    The Bottom Line:
    If it’s in the budget, go for the groom’s cake. If you’re serving it at the wedding reception, use a different flavor than the wedding cake to give your guests a second option.

    – Chris Easter | The Man Registry

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    Grooms Guide to Surviving Marriage Prep Class

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12488725
    Photography by Whitebox Weddings- see more at www.whiteboxweddings.com

    Love, children, family and marital duties – if you’re planning on being married in a church, these are some issues you’ll most likely discuss in a marriage preparation class. Some grooms may cringe at the thought of spending a Saturday or Sunday afternoon discussing and learning about marriage (When you know-it-all, already, right?) But if you take the classes seriously, there’s actually a lot of good information you can get out of them. Consider this article your primer for marriage prep.

    Men, class is in session.

    Marriage prep classes are designed to give the couple a preview of married life and what each spouse’s responsibilities may be. The number and location of classes will typically vary based on the couple’s religion. Sometimes a couple will only have to go to one afternoon class or a single meeting with the church. Other times, several classes may be required. Some religions even require a couple to participate in a weekend retreat to complete the course. After deciding where the ceremony will take place, make sure to check into that church’s requirements regarding marriage prep classes.

    So, what exactly are these classes about?

    Basically, they’re designed to prepare and educate the engaged couple about many of the challenges they’ll most likely face in married life. Classes are usually led by a clergy member, marriage counselor or married couple volunteering their time to the program. Typical topics of discussion include finances, planning for children, sexuality, romance and disillusionment, communication, and overcoming differences between each spouse’s families. The sacrament and holiness of marriage is also often a big discussion point in marriage prep. You’ll probably be asked to share stories as well as your personal thoughts and perceptions regarding different aspects of marriage.

    While you may have some one-on-one meetings, most marriage prep classes are made up of several other engaged couples. You’ll meet other couples going through the same process you are. Who knows, you may even make some new friends.

    A lot of men get nervous about attending these classes. One common fear is that the classes will get too personal or put you on the spot with tough questions. But rest assured that this isn’t what these classes are about. The instructor or lead couple will do everything they can to make sure everyone’s comfortable with the content. In fact, many men talk about how surprised they are that they really enjoy sharing personal stories with the other marriage prep class members.

    Marriage prep shouldn’t be something you dread (unless, of course, it happens to fall on Super Bowl Sunday). If you take it seriously and really put some effort into it, you’ll get a lot out of it. You may even learn something about your fiancé or the way she grew up that you didn’t already know.

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    Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Best Man Responsibilities

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12489030
    Photography by The Wiebners – Joel and Rita Wiebner – see more at www.thewiebners.com

    Being Best Man is about a lot more than giving a speech and planning the bachelor party. While both of those jobs are important, it’s the little things that you’ll do for your buddy that he’ll truly appreciate. The groom will be under a tremendous amount of stress in the weeks and days leading up to the wedding. Here are some things you can do that will ease the Groom’s mind and solidify your position as Best Man.

  • Organize the Bachelor Party -

    • This one is a no brainer. Giving the groom a memorable last night out with his buddies is one of the most important things you’ll do. Be sure to know the groom’s thoughts about strippers before booking them. If you’re planning on dinner before the drinking begins, it’s always nice to include the fathers and younger siblings who wouldn’t otherwise get a chance to be a part of the party.

  • Write your Speech -

    • Let’s face it, we’ve all heard some “interesting” Best Man speeches in our lifetimes. Your goal is for your speech to be remembered for its classiness, rather than for the number of many embarrassing stories you can share with the groom’s unsuspecting family and loved ones.

  • Assist the Groom with Wedding Planning Tasks -

    • Helping the groom and his family decorate for the rehearsal dinner, arranging the wedding transportation, and helping out-of-towners with directions may seem like small things, but they’ll be a huge help to the groom.

  • On the Day of the Wedding, be the Groom’s Right-Hand Man -

    • The moment he awakes on his Big Day, you need to be at the groom’s side, keeping him focused and on task. Depending on the time of the wedding, you may have time to go out for breakfast or a quick nine holes. In the hours immediately prior to the wedding, help him get dressed, drive him to the church, and give him a pep talk. He’ll certainly thank you for calming his nerves.

  • Remember your Best Man Duties -

    • Don’t forget some of the things that your job title requires, including keeping the rings safe until they’re exchanged and then signing the marriage license as a legal witness to the nuptials after the ceremony.

  • The Reception -

    • We all know how much fun you can have at a wedding reception (especially one with an open bar). After giving your speech, you’ll surely want to let loose. Just remember that it’s important that you’re able to help a little after the party is over. You may be asked to drive the couple to the hotel or to the airport. If not, the bride’s family is always appreciative of extra help in cleaning up and packing gifts into cars.

  • Your Final Duty -

    • The day after the wedding, you’ll be expected to return both the groom’s tuxedo as well as your own to the rental shop. It’s also important to find out what time the shop closes, in case you need some extra time to recuperate the next day.

    – Chris Easter | The Man Registry

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    Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Men’s Attire and Rentals

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12488753
    Photography by The Wiebners – Joel and Rita Wiebner – see more at www.thewiebners.com

    Planning the perfect wedding is one thing, but actually having one is another. A sure way to ease stress during the wedding planning process is to understand what it is that you can control, and of course accept what you can’t. Grooms, alleviate some pressure by early tuxedo preparation for your groomsmen’s, ushers’, ring bearers, and fathers’. Here are some common questions regarding tux rental. Reading them should ensure you’re fully prepared to order early and bypass the stresses of ‘last minute’ tux arrival.

    When should the groom start looking for a tux or a suit?
    Up to this point, the colors for your wedding haven’t yet been chosen. You’ll need to wait to choose the colors of your vest and tie until after the bridesmaids’ dresses have been officially selected. As much as you might think the tux colors will drive the whole color scheme for the wedding, that’s most often far from true. Coordination with the dresses is a major element to the bridal party attire. This step should usually happen no later than four to six months before the wedding.

    Where can I rent a tux or suit?
    The best option for locating a tux or suit rental store is to ask your friends and family for recommendations, use the mywedding.com, local online wedding guide search or consult your local phone book. It’s important to be comfortable with the company and their services to make sure they’re adequately equipped to accommodate your requests up to a couple of days before the wedding.

    When should the groom and the wedding party get fitted?
    No one likes walking into a tux shop to waste 30 minutes of their day, so schedule a group fitting for you and the wedding party. A group fitting can easily be turned into a meet and greet amongst the guys, incase they’re not all acquaintances. For those that can’t make the first scheduled group fitting, have them get fitted on their own, even if it’s not where you plan on renting your attire. Measurements can be faxed in to where you’re set on renting your suits/tuxes. You just want to make sure that all the guys are fitted. If necessary, a second fitting can be scheduled once the tuxes have arrived for any last minute alterations. Again, this should happen about four to six months before the wedding.

    How do I know if everyone in the wedding party has been measured?
    A few weeks before the tux shop’s fitting deadline, remind the wedding party that they need to be measured and give them a “fake” deadline that’s a few days before the real deadline to help ensure that any habitually late people will still make the actual deadline. Then, call the tux shop to make sure that they have received everyone’s measurements a few days before the deadline. The shop’s deadline is usually two months before the scheduled pickup; otherwise the shop can’t guarantee that the tuxedos will be available for the wedding date.

    When should the groom verify that the tux shop has everything they need?
    One month before the wedding, call the Tux shop to verify pickup date, time, and that they have everyone’s deposits.

    When should the groom pick up the tux before the wedding?
    About two days before the wedding, you and the wedding party will need to pick up your tuxedos (the store will provide you with a pickup date).

    Remember: It’s so very important to try it on! Make sure there aren’t any size mix-ups, or switches with the other men in the group. Check for all of the appropriate pieces and accessories that should be included with your tux, such as a bowtie or regular tie, a cummerbund or vest, cufflinks, and shoes. Although it might be funny for your groomsmen, you don’t want to end up looking like the fat guy in a little coat.

    The Bottom Line:
    Be prepared! And the whole renting tuxes / suits will be a piece of cake! And as a nice bonus, most tuxedo rental shops will give you one free rental for signing your wedding party up. It is common etiquette to give the free rental to your future father-in-law. After all, he has footed the bill for your wedding. Giving him a free tux rental is the least you can do to thank him.

    – Chris Easter | The Man Registry

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    Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Couple Showers

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12489120

    We can’t wait to hear all about the Egyptian cotton bath towels, silk linens and Vera Wang Dishes that our fiancées bring home from wedding showers. Sharing the joy of these items with our fiancés is one thing, but there’s definitely a reason why we aren’t usually invited to these soirees!

    But, say those gifts included a 24-volt cordless drill kit with 17 torque settings…now we’re talking. It’s becoming more common for engaged couples to have at least one shower that includes the groom. These showers are generally thrown as couple’s showers. The guest list typically includes other couples that are friends with the newlyweds-to-be. These types of showers tend to be more focused on home improvement, kitchen and bar tools, backyard activities, grilling accessories and honeymoons. Here are a few couples shower theme ideas – all created with the groom in mind.

    Home Improvement Shower:
    Each guest/couple usually brings some type of gadget that can be used to remodel, update or repair things around the house; including tool sets, painting equipment and dry wall tools. Whether one is moving in with the other, or you are already cohabitating…home upgrades can always be done. Kick the shower off at the local home improvement store by taking a class all together. Or invite an expert to your home and have them do a demonstration on how to fix or upgrade something common.

    Backyard, Lawn & Garden Shower:
    Each guest/couple usually brings a gift that can be used for the yard, such as landscaping tools and equipment, hammocks, putting greens or tiki torches. Outdoor entertaining-ware is also a good option. Host this party…obviously outdoors to emphasize the theme.

    Bar and Grill Shower:
    Each guest/couple can bring a gift thats used for the bar and grill. Items to help stock the bar, grill accessories or maybe even a group gift of a new grill would be perfect. This shower will put your new home in great shape for being able to host the next big shindig, whether it’s Monday Night Football or a casual afternoon BBQ. And again, not to state the obvious, but..a BBQ potluck would be just the right fit for this shower.

    Honeymoon Shower:
    Each guest/couple usually brings a gift that can be put toward or used on the honeymoon. Depending on your honeymoon destination, gifts might include excursions, snorkeling gear, hiking equipment, towels or travel guides. Weddings and honeymoons are expensive celebrations that can be limited by finances, but a Honeymoon Shower will help ease these pressures for the bride and groom. Theme the shower around the destination of your honeymoon!

    TMR Recommendation:
    We recommend going with Home Improvement Shower. Tools tend to be gifts that last for a lifetime.

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    The Man Registry with a Groom’s Guide to Buying the Perfect Gift for his Bride

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12489033
    Photography by Jeff Newsom – see more at www.jeffnewsom.com

    The wedding day is finally almost here. You’ve made it this far! Now, finish strong by getting your beautiful bride a remarkable and thoughtful wedding present. Although it may seem like you’ve already purchased a ton of gifts for everyone…from the parents to the groomsmen, this one is definitely the most important.

    Take your time to really think about this one. If you make the right choice, your honeymoon will continue for atleast a few months after you’re back from the actual trip! After that, you’re on your own, of course. But, for now, here are some ideas to help you get started on what to give your lovely bride. There are many different options to choose from – from traditional to sentimental to functional.

    Lets start with the most popular and most traditional choice, jewelry. A pair of diamond earrings to accompany her engagement ring would be quite nice. And with just a bit of research, you should be able to find a nice pair of them without busting the bank. Or, if you go through the same jeweler as where you purchased the engagement ring, you could get a good deal. If diamonds aren’t the answer, a nice set of pearl earrings, necklace, or bracelet may be in store. A charm bracelet is also a good choice. It could also set you up for future present purchases. Start the bracelet with a heart charm, symbolizing your wedding, and for each occasion after..add a charm that would symbolize other interests of hers, or yours.

    Now, if you prefer to steer clear of jewelry, something sentimental might be nice. The sentimental option is a budget friendly choice. Sentimental can mean many things, but mostly keepsake items – think old love letters, maybe a picture of her parents, or of someone who couldn’t be at the wedding, or one of the two of you when you first started dating. Something that would mean A LOT to your bride is the key idea with this present. Take a special photo and set it in a beautiful frame. Or you can write her an emotional or meaningful note or poem and have that framed to set bed-side in your home.

    Lastly, is the option of a functional gift. Think of her special interests for this gift…writing, reading, gardening, painting…maybe a leather journal, a book of love notes from famous writers, seeds or bulbs of her most favorite blooms, or an engraved case of fancy paintbrushes. If you can splurge a little, get your bride something that might come in handy for the honeymoon, such as a camera, a camcorder, or even a nice piece of designer carry-on luggage.

    The Bottom Line: As long as you’ve given her present deep thought and consideration, anything from your heart will be accepted with open arms!

    Remember that the wedding day will likely be chaotic and over in a flash, so set aside some time with your bride, and present her with that special gift. She’ll never forget that moment with you.

    Good Luck!

    – Chris Easter | The Man Registry

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    Guest Blogger: The Man Registry on Choosing Groomsmen

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com
    12488751
    Photography by Jeff Newsom – see more at www.jeffnewsom.com

    Choosing friends or family to be in your wedding party is a very important decision. Asking someone to stand next to you on your wedding day is an honor that is hard to equal. Typically, you want to make your decisions nine to 10 months before the wedding. First, you’ll want to decide with your fiancé the size of your ideal wedding party. However, as with most wedding planning decisions, it isn’t always an easy. For most men, the question often becomes “Who should I ask?”

    Brothers
    Without question, if you have a brother, asking him to be a part of the wedding party is a given. It’s often expected that your brother will serve as Best Man. If you have more than one brother, it’s also very common to have two or more Best Men.

    Your Fiance’s Brother
    Including your fiancé’s brothers in the wedding party is also a very popular choice. It’s also widely accepted as standard practice. You’ll be joining their family on your wedding day, and asking them to be groomsmen is a great way to welcome them into yours.

    Friends
    The tough decisions start when it comes to choosing which friends to ask. It’s usually wisest to start with any life-long friends you’ve had. You can also think about close friends from high school and college. A very popular groomsman choice is the college roommate.

    Family
    Cousins and nephews are also popular choices to add to your wedding party. Even if they’re young, you always the option of having a junior groomsman or usher. Other extended family members are also commonly asked to be readers, greeters or ring bearers.

    TMR Recommendation: Definitely include your brothers and fiancé’s brothers in the wedding party, and remember that going with a junior usher will always get rave reviews from your guests.

    Remember, if you reach your maximum number of groomsmen, you can also add ushers. The number of ushers typically ranges from two to four.

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    The Man Registry with The Bro vs Bride Battle

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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    Photography by Jeff Newsom

    You’re a groomsman? Great! But what if you don’t like the bride?

    As a groomsman or best man, you are expected to support the groom and stand by his side as he marries the woman of his dreams. But, what happens if the woman of his dreams also happens to be the woman of your nightmares?

    If you’re suffering from this bride vs. bro dilemma, we have some words of wisdom for you: She’s not going anywhere! It’s hard to hear, but from now on you’re going to have to share your buddy with the Mrs. You’re also going to have to perform your groomsmen duties with a smile on your face, so it might be wise to start thinking how this fence can be mended before the big day arrives.

    We’d be willing to bet that your dislike for the bride stems from one of the following reasons:

    1. You have noticed a decrease in the amount of Friday night poker games. You hold her accountable for this because she is constantly keeping him busy with other activities. You are worried that once they get married – you’re never going to see him again.
    2. You two never hit it off – and it’s just become awkward. You don’t speak to each other in group settings and you both think the other one doesn’t like you.
    3. You are upset because of the way you think she treats your friend. Maybe you’ve witnessed a few arguments or your buddy has opened up about a few things that don’t cast her in the best light.

    We’re sure that you’re happy for your friend and you want only the best for him. But, a problem isn’t going to go away unless you address it – We recommend one (or both) of the following options:

    Talk to him
    Level with your bud. Let him know the reason for the friction. Chances are he already has a pretty good grasp on the situation. Tell him how important it is that you keep a lot of the same friendship rituals active even after the marriage. We’re sure that he won’t want to give up any summer float trips or watching football on Sunday afternoons. Marriage is all about making sacrifices – and so is friendship. You may have to give up watching football on Saturday – but maybe you can make a new tradition of watching college ball on Saturday.

    Talk to her
    This may not be easy for you. But you’re a man – and you can handle it. You don’t need to confront her or share that you can’t stand the sight of her (really…don’t say that). Just explain that you feel like you need to get to know her better. Suggest the three of you go out for drinks or get a group together for a bowling outing. Who knows – she may have an available friend that she could introduce you to. This could pave the way to a lifetime of double dates. The main point here is that the more time you spend with her, the more you will start to see the things about her that your friend loves. You might actually end up having a lot in common with her yourself!

    TMR Recommendation: When talking with your buddy – don’t let it turn into a bash-fest of his fiancée. No matter what you say, you’re not going to convince him to call it off, move back in with you, and play video games every night for the rest of your lives (as much as that would rock). We simply suggest expressing your thoughts and letting the rest take care of itself.

    Bonus Recommendation: Organize a co-ed bowling or softball team. This is a great way to regularly see your friends and also include the ladies.

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    The Man Registry with Newlyweds and Finance

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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    Photography by Viera Photographics

    Many newlyweds have financial questions…the guys at TheManRegistry.com have answers.

    Statistics say that finances are the number one topic that married couples argue about (think about some of the couples that you know and you’ll realize that this is probably accurate). Money is always a very touchy subject, especially if you don’t have a lot of it. This is generally the case for newlyweds who are just starting out.

    The best way to align yourselves for financial success and avoid arguing over money is to discuss some financial topics before you take the walk down the aisle. Here are a few of the major issues and some quick recommendations from us on each one.

    Should we combine our finances after getting married?
    Not every couple combines their finances after getting married, but our answer to this question is yes. First, determine who the money manager is going to be in the family or if you’re going to split that duty. From there, we recommend creating joint checking and savings accounts and keeping personal checking accounts for each of you. By doing it this way, you can split common bills and still have “mad money” to spend on your own things.

    It takes every couple awhile to get used to the “my money is our money” mindset that comes along with marriage, but if you can stay organized – it won’t be a difficult transition.

    How much should we be saving from our paychecks?
    If you haven’t noticed, our economy hasn’t been the most stable over the past year. The recovery has been nice, but we all have learned just how important saving for rough times can be. Depending on incomes, 30% is a great amount of net income to put away in savings/investments each month. Obviously, every couple isn’t going to be able to put aside that amount, but you’re doing yourself a huge favor even if you can only do 10% each month.

    We both are bringing debt into the marriage, how should it be tackled?
    Don’t freak out if you’re bringing debt into marriage. Most couples do, and there are ways you can tackle the debt together. The first and most important step is to be upfront and honest with each other about how much debt you each have. We recommend creating a chart of spending habits (it may sound lame, but it works). This chart will help you both identify places you can cut back each month. If it’s an option, we highly recommend speaking to a financial planning professional. A financial planner can look at your debt and interest rates and help you plan where to begin paying down.

    What should we do with all that cash we get as wedding gifts?
    Who doesn’t love cash? You’ll definitely be seeing green after the wedding as cash remains the most common wedding gift that couples receive. There’s nothing wrong with splurging a little with the newfound greenbacks, but this might also be a great time to create that joint savings account we talked about earlier. The wedding cash would be a great first deposit. Depending on how much you get, you could always pocket a few hundred for honeymoon drinks and save the rest!

    Cheers!

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    Groom’s Etiquette Expert on Groom Showers

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

    Photography by Ashley Brokop

    Question:
    The bride usually has several showers that include an all-female guest list, so why isn’t there an all-guy bridal, er, “groomal” shower?

    Groom’s Etiquette Expert, Chris Easter’s Answer:
    Believe it or not, groom showers (also known as man showers) are becoming very popular in the wedding world. Similar to a bridal shower, a man shower is a pre-wedding party that is hosted by the best man or member of the groom’s family. This is not a replacement for the bachelor party, but rather a daytime affair that can include grilling, gaming, and gift giving. Popular themes for man showers are home improvement, backyard & patio, and bar & grill.

    Of course, all grooms should know to visit TheManRegistry.com to register for all of their man shower gifts!

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    What to Wear to the Rehearsal Dinner

    Posted by the man registry of themanregistry.com

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    Photography by Anna Kuperberg

    The rehearsal dinner is the perfect opportunity for the groom and his family to show off a little bit. We all know that the bride’s side is responsible for planning the reception – which is likely to be the event that is remembered most. However, the rehearsal dinner is picking up steam in recent years as an event that can more than hold its own.

    Today we’re blogging about what the groom should wear to the rehearsal dinner (and the wedding walkthrough that precedes it).

    You definitely want to wear something nice to the actual rehearsal (think slacks, a dress shirt, tie and a blazer). Also, remember to remind your wedding party of the recommended attire for the rehearsal. Generally, a good rule of thumb is to tell them to wear what you’re wearing.

    For the dinner, the first thing you need to determine if it’s going to be a casual or formal event. If it’s more formal, wear what you wore to the rehearsal. If the dinner is going to be casual, consider dropping the blazer and tie. Just be sure that all of your guests are on the same page. You don’t want some people showing up in cutoff jean shorts while others are in khakis.

    Remember that there are going to be a lot of photos taken at the rehearsal dinner. Chances are these photos are going to follow you for the rest of your life. Like always, we recommend dressing to impress.

    Cheers!

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