|
| Selecting a Tux Shop |
Photo by
Daniel Doke Photography
|
|
Article by Norm Abrahams
General Manager,
Classic Tuxedo
|
|
|
With the multitude of decisions
that go into the making of a successful wedding, it is not
surprising that tuxedos often get relegated to second-class
status. Making the correct choice of a formalwear supplier for
your wedding can go a long way toward reducing the stress of what
should be the happiest day of your life. Here are some guidelines
for choosing the right one.
|
|
|
|
|
First, talk to your friends.
If one of them was recently married, their experience, positive or
negative is useful information. If they had a good experience,
using them as a reference will go a long way toward insuring you
will make a good choice.
|
|
|
|
Second, choose a company with
convenient locations. Proximity to the event will allow the
company to deal with any last minute emergencies that might arise.
|
|
|
|
Third, look for a company that
owns their inventory and does their own alterations. This will
allow them to service the needs of any late arriving members of
your wedding party and have them looking their best. A Father of
the Bride coming from out of town does not want to be told that
the replacement garment he needs will arrive two hours after the
ceremony.
|
|
|
|
Fourth, consider the breadth
of selection being offered. For this most special of occasions
you should be able to create a look with which you are
comfortable. We live in a time where there is great freedom as to
what may be worn for weddings. Your outfit should reflect your
image and not some preconceived notion on the part of the tuxedo
salesman. With the multitude of coat styles, vest styles, and
other accessory options, you don't have to settle for an ensemble
with which you are uncomfortable.
|
|
|
|
Fifth, be sure the company can
accommodate your schedule. Often companies have very rigid
policies as to the pick up and return of their tuxedos. You should
not have to pick up the day before the event and return the day
after. Even in the busiest of times the store you choose should
have a minimum of a five-day rental to accommodate your schedule.
|
|
|
|
Sixth, be certain that the
company has a tried and true system for dealing with members of your
party who are coming from great distances. This is always a source
of stress for both the customer and the supplier. To avoid any
problems, you want to be certain that those coming from out of town
have sent accurate measurements well in advance of your wedding.
Four to six weeks is a reasonable time frame for the adult members
of your party. The exception to this rule would be any small
children participating as a ring bearer or junior usher. Measuring
them much before three weeks prior to the wedding may not be
reliable as they grow so fast.
|
|
|
|
Seventh and most importantly,
work with a salesman and a company with which you feel
comfortable. You should work with someone who is genuinely
interested in helping you realize what you have pictured in your
mind. They should be experienced in dealing with weddings and not
just with high school proms. They should be attentive to your
wishes and knowledgeable enough to guide you to an outfit, which
is elegant, befitting the occasion, and makes the groom feel like
a million bucks!
|
|
|
|
In conclusion, the formalwear
component of your wedding plans should be the least stressful
decisions you have to make. If you pay attention to some of the
issues I have suggested, find someone with whom you are
comfortable, communicate your requirements clearly, and you will
have a beautiful wedding with a minimum of hassle.
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
