Know What Your Options Are
In researching the stores you should have gotten a general idea of the price ranges they offer, as well as, the required number of rentals to qualify for a FREE groom's rental and any discounts or group rates offered.
Keep in mind that shoes, damage wavier and sales tax are usually not included in the general quote, so expect to add another $25 - $45 to the basic price of the tuxedo.
For those that are budget conscious, remember that the trendy colors and designer brands are what's most expensive. If you're using black you can choose a less expensive style of jacket with which ever vest and tie you want.
When choosing a more expensive style for the groom and groomsmen the father's and usher's can be reduced by choosing a less expensive style jacket.
If the groom feels generous, we offer "share the wealth." With this we include the groom when dividing the cost of the groomsmen rentals and it reduces the cost for everyone.
The Ceremony Information
Now this is obviously needed; the date, the time pictures begin and the location. We use this information for more than just knowing what day to get the tuxedos in, but to be prepared for last minute pick ups and fitting mishaps.
How far away is it if an emergency delivery is necessary? This information helps us plan to make sure your guys are covered, literally!
Color Swatches
Whether it's a piece of fabric from the bridesmaids dress or a pillow you found, make sure you have something that is the color you want to match vest and ties with.
We offer several shades in each color and when you see how similar they are to one another it can confuse the color you remembered in your head.
Cell phones are great for some things but typically colors don't show up accurately enough to select from a picture on your phone.
The Names of all Party Members
You will need a complete list of all party members, this goes beyond the groom and groomsmen...include any father's that will be in the pictures. What about stepfather's? They may need something to compliment with the mother's dress. What about grandfather's? Are there any usher's that may just need to rent a suit? And of course, the little guys.
We also like to know if the men are local or out of town so if we need to assist in finding a trustworthy location for them to get measurements we can do so.
Who's Wearing What
Have you thought about how you want each position distinguished? Your consultant can help advise you with this if you haven't already predetermined who's wear what.
Typically, the groom coordinates with the bride, the groomsmen coordinate with the bridesmaids, fathers, if not included with the groomsmen, wear something complimentary or classic. The usher's would be complimentary or classic and the ring bearer matches the groom. Of course, these are optional, but some form of differentia helps break up the one color monotony.
Just have some thoughts in mind when you go, once you see your color options a new idea may present itself.
You should plan about 45 minutes to an hour to get everything decided and recorded if you have all of this information handy.
Happy Planning!!
