Take Your Last Bachelor Dip at Pool Party

Even though summer has just barely started, temperatures are sure to remain hot for a few more months, especially in the south and west regions of the US. If you are trying to plan a bachelor party or guyÍs weekend party in honor of an upcoming wedding, staying cool may be just as much of a priority as having fun. We have a great idea that is sure to make a splash with you and the guys _ a Pool Cabana Party. Pool parties are some of the hippest and most happening spots to unwind (and get wild) during daylight hours in Las Vegas. Most guys we know canÍt afford a poolside cabana at one of the big name hotels on the strip, the bill for cabana, bottle service and DJ can cost several thousands of dollars. Well, maybe this could happen if all the guyÍs pitched in as a gift for the groom. This doesnÍt even include the travel expenses to get in Las Vegas and the additional bundle youÍll blow in the casinos. But you can replicate the fun in your own hometown with a DIY pool cabana party _ and all at a fraction of the expense. Here are some logistics to keep in mind when planning and executing this summer season bachelor party: Guests: Obviously the groom, best man and groomsmen should be going to this party _ but you definitely donÍt want it all dudes. This type of pre-wedding party works the best as less of a traditional bachelor party and more of a co-ed party; what fun is it going to the pool without seeing a single bikini? Actually, it could be a coupleÍs wedding shower with both men and women invited _ and what a great way for the bridesmaids and groomsmen to get to know each other! Location: Obviously you are going to need a pool. If you canÍt find a friend who is willing to loan you his backyard pool for the shindig (call it an early wedding gift), then start contacting local country clubs to see what their rental fees are for private parties. Or, inquire with the big hotels in your city to see what they offer. There will be a charge, but we can almost guarantee it will be nothing like the sky-high bill youÍd get in Sin City. Additionally, you can check out renting public pool facilities, but make sure you understand their policies on alcohol and music before plunking down a deposit. Activities: YouÍll definitely want music and should consider hiring a local college DJ who will keep the party going all day and night for a reasonable fee. Or, search through iTunes for beach and summer type songs and make a playlist to loop on outdoor speakers. Make sure enough area is cleared (and stays dry) to serve as a dance floor. Be as daring as you care, have a contest for the best male and female beach body, most obnoxious bathing suit, craziest stunt off the diving board, best dance moves, etc. Make sure you have plenty of lounge chairs and day beds for lazing around and catching some rays. Food & Drink: Really, nothing goes better at a pool party than hamburgers and hotdogs cooked outdoors on the grill. Use one of our steak brands to burn in the about-to-be-married coupleÍs initials or a heart into the bun _ this is a cool new trick that upscale burger joints are doing. These steak brands also make tasteful groomsmen gifts and party favors to commemorate the event. Also, youÍll want to serve up cool, refreshing beverages in the appropriate barware _ something shatter-proof for the pool area. If things really start getting crazy, pull out our Jag Bomb set that serves up a two-in-one shot of liquor along with a chaser. Practicalities: Keep drinks and perishable foods cold in our personalized coolers that double as groomsmen gifts to take home. We love this tailgate dispenser cooler that offers up beers one at a time -- stock each guyÍs with a six-pack of his favorite brand. To cool off larger beverage assortments for the entire party, fill a childÍs plastic party pool with ice and just dump cans and bottles right it for a quick chill. Word of warning - if there is going to be a lot of drinking and fun in the sun, make sure that your guests have a safe way to get home.

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Getting Married in Vegas

Getting married in Las Vegas is a great option for couples looking to get hitched quickly but without the dull ambiance of a hometown justice of the peace. For folks who don’t want a lot of fuss and family, a Vegas wedding is one of the best wedding presents ever! There is no waiting period or blood test required to get a marriage license in Nevada which means that long-time lovebirds or even those who have just recently met can be married quicker than you can say “What Happens in Vegas Stays in Vegas.” With more than 315 marriages performed per day, Las Vegas has become known as the Wedding Capital of the World and its booming wedding industry is second only to gambling. Popular places to get married are the Little White Wedding Chapel or the Graceland Wedding Chapel, both with drive-thru options. Even though it’s super-easy to say “I do,” you and your significant other do need to come armed with a little bit of information (and be at least 18 or have written guardian permission). For example, both parties will need to show up with valid, original, certified copies of personal identification, such as a driver's license, state-issued identification card, a birth certificate, military ID, or a passport. The Clerk's Office may also accept student ID cards, prison-issued ID cards, and foreign birth certificates that have been translated into English. If divorced, you will also need to know the details of the final decree including as the exact date and jurisdiction of the divorce; however, you don’t need to have the actual paperwork. You also will need to know your social security numbers to write down on the Affidavit of Application for Marriage and come with $60 to cover the cost of the license. There will be other expenses for the venue, witnesses, an officiant, tuxedo and gown rental and so on but these costs are still extremely cheap when compared to a traditional wedding. For many, getting married in Las Vegas is the cool thing to do, it certainly seems like tons of celebrities have tied the knot here. Now, whether these have been long and lasting relationships is another story. One of the shortest lasting marriages was the one between Britney Spears and her childhood friend Jason Alexander. The two got married on a whim in Las Vegas but ultimately annulled the union 55 hours later. Another marriage that didn’t stick much past a week was the one between Carmen Electra and Dennis Rodman, the deal was annulled 9 days later – perhaps because Dennis was the one wearing the dress! Another hookup that lasted less than a season was the marriage of Pamela Anderson and longtime Rick Salomon, they said “I do” at the Mirage Hotel but then decided “We don’t” two months later. Other Vegas marriages that didn’t last include 2 years for Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow, 2 years for Angelina Jolie and Billy Bob Thorton, 4 years for Cindy Crawford and Richard Gere, 13 years for Demi Moore and Bruce Willis. Melanie Griffith and Don Jonson actually got married in Las Vegas in 1976 and then called it quits 6 months later only to reunite in 1989 and stay married for another six years. But, believe it or not, some celebrity Vegas weddings have actually had some staying power. Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos eloped to Las Vegas in 1996 and remain happily married with children to this day. During the heyday of his heartthrob status in 1989, Jon Bon Jovi married his high school sweetheart, Dorothea Hurley in Vegas and the pair remains together to this day. But, probably the record goes to Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward who were united in holy matrimony in Sin City and remained together in a loving relationship until his death 50 years later. If you are planning a Vegas wedding, Groomstand.com has lots of memorabilia that will help you commemorate the event. Vegas bachelor party t-shits make a great souvenir for your buddies as you all make merry through the strip on the night before your wedding. Plus, if you get too drunk, these groomsmen gifts “label” each guy with his respective role in the wedding – this makes sure the “right man,” not the “best man” is getting married! Another fun Vegas groomsmen gift idea is personalized prints and signs that feature the iconic welcome sign for this city. If you are getting married in Vegas, let us know in the comments below! Will you “drive-thru” or have a more formal event in one of the hotels?

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Groomsmen Gifts for the Hip Home Bar

When furnishing a home bar with serving pieces and implements, the obvious and more conventional choices come to mind. Nice weighty beer mugs able to hold a full pint of brew, shot glasses to get the party started (or keep it going) and even a serviceable flask ready to top off for an outing. All of these have traditionally been (and really still are) great gifts for groomsmen. Now,the woman in your life will undoubtedly request stemmed wine glasses for vino of both white and red varietals. Or she may even point you to the new stemless wine glasses as an alternative. We’re happy to educate you know that white and red wine are served in vessels with different sized bowls that help amplify the specific traits inherent in each. But while you may have all this necessary barware and even some bartender conveniences such as a cocktail shaker, immersion blender and paring knife for making garnishes, there are some less-often thought of products that make home bar feel like a hip and happening place to kick back and enjoy an adult beverage. So go ahead, hook the guys up with one of these groomsmen gifts and then wait for the almost-instant invitations to come over and ‘hang out’ start rolling in! Custom Wall-Mounted Bottle Opener: Practical and plenty party-worthy, this handy tool deserves a permanent parking spot on the wall nearest the beer fridge. Your best man and groomsmen can now “pop a top” with so much less stress now that the frantic searching through jumbled kitchen drawers is no longer an issue. Enjoy beer quicker and with more class, that’s what we say here at Groomstand.com A must-have for your brotherhood of beer-drinkers, these handsome bottle openers have a vintage-yet-upscale vibe that just screams, “I’m ready to open a fancy import, IPA or bottled craft beer.” The black lacquered paint and distinctive golden paint decorating the recipient’s single initial letter have these unique implements blending nicely into any décor. Double-Walled Stainless Ice Bucket & Tongs: Ice, ice, baby! If the ice melts away at your party, so does the upbeat atmosphere. Keep those good times rolling and all the boys chillin’ with one of these groomsmen and best man gifts. Sitting on the countertop, our ice bucket adds a sophisticated touch to the home bar while providing a quite serviceable job. Dump in a load of ice and then forget about it! The double-walled construction of this ice bucket provides extra insulation that will last for hours. The matching tongs are on call and ready to freshen drinks from the minute the first guest enters the door to the time the last rolls on home. No self-respecting party host should be without this home bar item. Counter Balance Wine Bottle Holder: Amaze and astound your friends with this almost magical choice in groomsmen gifts. Gather ‘round the guys and show them how you can suspend a wine bottle horizontally in air, attached only to one side of this wedding gift. Is it magic, science or an optical illusion? Or, are you just the most awesome groom this side of a travelling road show? Unique to give as groomsmen gifts; so hook up your buddies with one of these unusual conversation-starting contraptions! In no time they’ll be impressing their significant others and winning new friends with their David Copperfield like moves – plus, the sight of wine displayed sideways really takes the attention off a cheap bottle. What are your suggestions for essential implements, gear and gadgets for the home bar? Tell us what you can’t live without in the comments below.

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Groomsmen Gifts for Christian Weddings

In the Christian faith, groomsmen have long played an important role in the wedding ceremony. For years, these friends have served as loyal companions, close confidants, and as your moral compass in times when you’ve stepped slightly astray. “The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are.” -- Christian author, C.S. Lewis The groomsmen gifts you pick to say “thank you for standing by my side at the ceremony” need to reflect these mentioned sentiments that go well beyond the actual wedding day . Well-chosen Christian groomsmen gifts serve as meaningful memento and keepsake from your wedding and also reflect your desire for many more years of continued friendship. At Groomstand.com, our personalized cufflinks are a popular choice in groomsmen gifts for the Christian wedding. We have several sets that feature a cross emblem and arrive in a handsome silver-tone box that may be personalized with a name and event date or some other meaningful message. Choose from black cross cufflinks, silver cross cufflinks, or black enamel and gold-tone cross cufflinks. We also have a pair of bible cufflinks that are designed to look like very small books with a cross design on the front. Any of these cufflinks, when given as groomsmen gifts, serve as a gesture of friendship and meaningful reminder of faith on the recipient’s shirtsleeves. In addition to personalized cufflinks, Groomstand.com has an amazing array of thoughtful gift for groomsmen that can be customized in honor of the recipient. Money clips, business card holders and pocket knives are practical choices that your friends will use day in and day out, and thus keep your friendship at the top of his mind. We also have plenty of groomsmen and best man gifts that can be used in the religious organization of his choice, whatever that may be. For example, our leather-covered portfolios will keep his notes neat and tidy for reviewing after the sermon. If you would like to mark one of our personalized groomsmen gifts with a special scripture from the Bible, here are a few of our favorites based on friendship. Maybe one fits the friendships you share with your best man and groomsmen. Don’t worry about the length; if your chosen groomsmen gifts only allows for one line of personalization all you need to indicate is the chapter and verse to get the point across, not the entire quote. Romans 12:10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. Ephesians 4:29-32 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Colossians 3:12-14 Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. Proverbs 11:14 Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety. Proverbs 19:20 Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. Proverbs 24:5 A wise man is full of strength, and a man of knowledge enhances his might, Proverbs 27:17 Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.

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Smokeless Tobacco, Baseball Trivia & Groomsmen Gifts to Chew On

With baseball season is in full swing and splatters of spittle are hitting the ground, our minds have momentarily become distracted from all things groomsmen gift and best man gift related. Baseball season got us thinking about how one of the most enduring rituals of this all-American sport came to be. We’re talking about chaw, chew, snu, gator lip, dip, wad, redman, skoal and grit, that big pouch of gross gunk that baseball players like to stick between their lip, cheek and gums. Anyway you say it, chewing tobacco has long been a hazardous habit associated with the wholesome-as-apple-pie sport of baseball. Have you ever wondered why, specifically, chewing tobacco and baseball players have become such an enduring image in American sports history? Well, long before the white man settled on the continent, Native Americans were chewing tobacco in some form or fashion. Eventually, tobacco became a huge commodity and by the 18th and 19th century, having a cheek full of chaw was by far the most popular method of consumption in the United States. However, it wasn’t until the turn of the 19th century that baseball players took a greater-than-average interest in this vice. The popularity of cigarettes had made gains on chewing tobacco, but athletes felt that smoking cigarettes would make them slow, sluggish and just bring on bad luck. So, they kept their cheeks filled with dip. The byproducts of chewing tobacco – ahem, spit – became a valuable resource on the baseball diamond. Guys in the dusty, dry outfield would suck on the chew to produce more saliva and juices to keep their mouths moist. Guys guarding the bases liked to lubricate and sticky up their gloves with spittle while pitchers found the now legendary (and also illegal) “spit ball” to be a secret weapon against whomever was at bat Smokeless tobacco had become so ingrained in the culture of American baseball that marketers pushed the stuff with images of the latest hero inserted into the package – like an early (and much more carcinogenic) version of bubblegum trading cards. Case in point, the American Tobacco Company release the T206 Honus Wagner card in 1909; today it is the believed to be the most elusive and most expensive of them all. Funny thing, Wagner was one of the rare players who didn’t chew and didn’t want his name linked with tobacco advertising – oh, the irony. But Wagner was right. Long before the serious side effects of using smokeless tobacco were confirmed, legends of the sport started hitting the ground like “dropped flies.” Babe Ruth died of mouth cancer. Curt Flood of the Cardinals, Brett Butler of the Dodgers. Bill Tuttle, center infielder for three MLB teams, was afflicted with mouth cancer and lost his teeth, jaw and right cheek. Until the end of his battle, Tuttle dedicated himself to educating American youth about the dangers of chewing tobacco. By 1993, the MLB finally took official measures to halt the use of tobacco during baseball games. The word was smokeless tobacco could not be used in the dugout or on the field. In 2011, in a continued effort to role model to young athletes and up-and-comers, the ML said “NO” to using chew in pre and post games interviews. Basically, we don’t want to see the chew when on the “job.” But, when there’s a will, there’s a way – especially with a nicotine addiction. Many of today’s players continue to publically use chewing tobacco. So, if it’s just about the buzz, why don’t athletes just smoke cigarettes in the dugout or take a pre-pitcher’s mound bong hit? Sounds ridiculous, doesn’t it?! Hope you enjoyed this little bit of baseball trivia. Do you have any good baseball trivia for us? If so, post in the comments below! If you love baseball as much as we do, check out our roster of really cool baseball-inspired items that would make excellent groomsmen gifts. From personalized MLB locker room signs to personalized keepsake baseball bats, we’ve got everything you need to knock those gifts for groomsmen right out of the park. Home run!

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Bachelor Party Paradise: Self-Serve Beer Taps

Times are a changing, we are doing more and more stuff for ourselves. Most people under forty or fifty don’t even know that gas-station attendants used to pump fuel into your car or that elevator attendants were in control of the lift to ensure safe arrival and the desired floor of a high-rise. Help was also required for getting money out of the bank, now we self-serve at ATMs grocery store check outs and a host of other locations. Another sign of the future, the role of the bartender may also be changing . . . . make that vanishing thanks to the integration of new technology in bar and food establishments. For years now, many fast-food restaurants have made getting a soda a do-it-yourself affair. Apparently the expense of free-refills was much less than the costs incurred by having paid employees tackle the task. It’s this streamlining of processes and efficiencies that keep costs low for consumers and profits higher for corporations. Now this self-serve approach is being rolled out with beer-drinking at a restaurants and bars around the country. For a bachelor party, this type of ongoing access to beer could almost be viewed as a gift for the groom or groomsmen gifts. A company called iPourIt has developed a proprietary system that allows customers to pour their own beer using a radio frequency identification (RFID) wristband. The idea was born from impatience. When the now business partners of this new company were at out drinking, they became antsy when their beer order wasn’t being fulfilled fast enough by the bartender -especially since they saw plenty of taps not being used. The slow service of their suds was based on the mere fact that the bartender was tending to a lot of orders, and their order was just down low in the queue. Chief Technology Officer Brett Jones wondered, “ . . . why can’t I just walk up and pour my own beer?” And then he did something about it! Partnering with Joseph McCarthy, the two founded iPourIt, an automated pouring system that works for beer or any other beverage. Visit a location that uses this service for your bachelor party; bring along personalized glass beer mugs as your take-home groomsmen gifts! Upon ordering a beer, the customer gives his server his driver’s license to verify the minimum drinking age has been met. The server then opens up a tab on a management workstation and brings the customer back a special wristband and a beer mug. The wristband is geared up with a special wireless RFID chip that tracks the beer poured. Once the wristband has been activated, you literally tap it at the tap it, and then fill up your mug as you please. Customers only pay for what they pour and because it is trackable to a tenth of an ounce, beer aficionados can sample little bits of beer, one after another, without having to commit to a whole bottle or pint glass. Upon checkout, the consumer is provided their bill along with a record of the beers tasted. Armed with this information, consumers can rate and share opinions about the various beers online in community designed for beer drink. Fans of this fast-track to beer love it. One guy said that he tried four beers the traditional way (full glass) and it cost him about $25, with the beer wristband, it only cost him about $4 to sample four different varieties. Establishments also save money because the IPourIt system accounts for every fraction of an ounce, no beer is wasted or nicked off. Additionally, with just the push of a few buttons, the bar management can see what the most popular ales, beer or lagers of the night were – and this helps with inventory management. Seriously, if your friend is about to get hitched, grab a pilsner or beer mug from Groomstand.com and visit the land of ever-flowing hops. In the interest of public safety, individual well-being and liability, there is a limit to how much beer you can self-serve. The point of this system is not to encourage unlimited drinking, but to give opportunities to sample and savor a repertoire of new beers and find new favorites. Configurable controls limit the number of ounces that can be poured in a given amount of time. Once the limits are reached the customer can visit with his server again who can then make the decision whether to allow more ounces of beer to be consumed or to cut him off.

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Travel Issues When Giving Pocket Knife as Groomsman Gifts

What guy wouldn’t want to receive a pocket knife as a thank you for being your groomsman? As far as men go, I don’t think there is a single one of them who wouldn’t get excited about unwrapping a box, lifting the lid and finding a sleek, streamlined pocket knife or fully-loaded multi-function tool waiting within. Even if he already has a pocket knife or two, another is always welcome. It’s like women and shoes; you can never have enough! So, if you are planning on giving your best man, groomsmen, ushers or other important members of your wedding party a pocket knife or multi-function tool as an thank-you present, there are some considerations you should make beforehand, especially the recipient is an out-of-town guest and you want to make sure he travels back home with this new groomsmen gift intact. If your buddy is traveling by car, there are no worries. He can just toss his new pocket knife anywhere he pleases -- in a weekend bag, in the glove compartment or even out on display on the passenger seat. There are no restrictions in a private vehicle. In fact, having a pocket knife or multi-tool on hand during a road trip is a prudent idea for safety. There are many perils on the road, from flat tires to snack time, that may require the use of such an implement. If your friend is travelling home on a public land vehicle such as a bus or train, make sure that he is aware of the prohibited items. For example, on Greyhound coaches, any knife (except round-bladed plastic cutlery) may be brought into the passenger area or stored in carry-on bags. Additionally, any type of knife or bladed object --- including pocket knives – may even be packed in your checked luggage that is transported in the outside compartment of the vehicle. However, upon check-in at the bus station, a traveler may ship his prohibited item home (for an additional expense) via the Greyhound PackageXpress service. Check out this full list of items prohibited on Greyhound. For return travel via a train, there are also restrictions on carrying a folding blade, pocket knife or multi-function tool. Amtrak also enforces a list of prohibited items on trains in order to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers during transit. Amtrak, the nation's largest provider of interstate train travel as well as contract-commuter service for state and regional authorities, reports that sharp objects are not allowed on-board or in checked luggage. This includes, but is not limited to “axes, ice picks, knives, spears and swords.” However, it does say that “sheathed equipment” is allowed in checked baggage. So, presumably a pocket knife that is folded down into the case is allowed into checked baggage. When travelling on an airline, it is unwise to bring along a pocket knife. Although it is legal to “bear arms,” you may not pass the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security check-in with a pocket knife on your person or in carry-on bags. Until just recently, per TSA regulations, the only type of knife that can be placed into carry-on luggage was “plastic or round-bladed butter knives.” However this is changing, effective April 25, 2013. As the TSA “continues to evolve and strengthens its multi-layered approach to aviation security,” it will begin allowing small knives in carry-on luggage to “help passengers prepare for airport security procedures prior to the checkpoint arrival.” However, small knives permitted in carry-on luggage must have a blade no more that 2.36 inches length (from tip to where blade it meets the handle or hilt) and be no more than ½ inch thick. Knives with locking or fixed blades, molded grips and razors and box cutters are still not allowed through security. The majority of pocket knives at Groomstand.com will pass the test on blades allowable by the TSA (but remember, this new rule goes into effect April 25, 2013). Also, remember on all of these carriers, multi-function tools are also considered sharp objects – even more so with numerous implements such as blades, corkscrews and scissors. Just to be safe, it is probably a good idea to mail home pocket knives that are given as groomsmen gifts. Just imagine how embarrassing it would be for a buddy’s new groomsman gift to be confiscated at security check-in, or worse yet, have to go bail them out of jail!

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A Dream Come True, JFK Cigar Box

If youÍve ever watched the hit History Channel show, ñPawn Stars," youÍve no doubt seen the random parade of memorabilia, paraphernalia and just plain junk that comes rolling in. I love to sit back and watch this colorful reality show that centers on the real-life pawn business ñGold & Silver Pawn Shop,î now a popular landmark on the outskirts of Las Vegas. Folks from all walks of life haul in their antiquities, artifacts and, er . . . well, junk and negotiate with the savvy three-generational pawn shop owners, grandfather Richard, son Rick and grandson Corey. It seems like old firearms are popular as are vintage toys, so is anything that has a bit of history attached to it. Just imagine the cool calm that had to be kept when a cigar box alleged to be owned by John F. Kennedy walked into the shop. Rick was nearly drooling all over this piece of presidential history, ñItÍs just one of those things I can only dream about,î he said. The cigar box was an artifact that actually sat on KennedyÍs desk in the Oval Office, and upon inspection, Rick realized it actually still had a few of KennedyÍs unsmoked cigars stashed inside. These were probably cigars that the commander-in-chief had picked out himself. There was no way Rick was letting this cigar box walk out the door! So let the negotiations begin! A whopping $95,000 was the asking price for the cigar box, but after the expected back-and-forth negotiation and listening to RickÍs hemming and hawing, the seller accepted an offer of $60,000. For Rick, this was probably a great deal in light of the fact that in the 1990s, another JFK cigar box brought more than half a million at auction. DonÍt feel sorry for the seller, at least he had some pocket money to gamble with that night. So, even if there are more JFK cigar boxes lurking out there, we know you canÍt exactly hook the guys in your wedding party up with one. WouldnÍt that be an amazing surprise as groomsmen gifts?! However, at Groomstand.com, we have a wide range of cigar humidors that worthy enough for the even the most discerning guys in your group. For example, if we were giving a wedding gift for a super-sophisticated groom or a big-wig best man, weÍd definitely choose The Dresden Cigar Humidor, a classy crate that cradles up to 60 stogies in the lap of luxury. Featuring a high-shine lacquer finish and gleaming silver fittings, this handsome humidor features all the standard mechanisms to ensure the proper humidity level is maintained. This humidor will be a showpiece on any manÍs desk! If youÍd like to give groomsmen gifts that speak to each friendÍs personal interests, weÍve got you covered on that as well. Check out our reasonably-priced line of wooden humidors that feature bold designs on the lid that honor many of the favorite hobbies of men, from bowling to poker and beyond. Lift the lid on most of our humidors and youÍll discover hygrometers along with a fragrant cedar lining work together to help keep cigars in pristine condition. Oh how the smell of cedar mingles with tobacco _ quite nicely! On the top of the lid, in addition to the chose graphic, a special personalization may be added for the recipient, such as a name or event date. These gifts for groomsmen will be very well-received, especially if you pre-stock them with a supply of his favorite cigars.

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Smoke to infinity and beyond! Gigantic Cigar Sold for $185K

Do you and your groomsmen like cigars? I mean, really, really like cigars? If so, you may have just missed out on aquiring the granddaddy of all smokes – the Gran Habano #5 “El Gigante cigar.” It’s hard to believe that this 19-foot bad boy with a 3-foot circumference is really rolled fermented tobacco because it looks strikingly similar to a timbered tree trunk being hauled out of the woods. So how did this record-breaking cigar get discovered? Juan Panesso, owner of CigarsDirect.com, based in Westchase, FL was approached by a private collector wanting to find a showpiece for his cigar collection. Panesso had heard stories of a super-sized stogie created to be a crowd-drawer at trade shows, but wasn’t sure if all the chatter was legit. At first, everyone he talked to thought he was crazy or the deal was fraudulent. As he made phone inquiries and worked his network about the existence of this rumored cigar of mythical proportions, he found out it was the real deal and put the wheels into motion to broker the deal. In the end, the cigar sold for a bit under its estimated selling price of $200k, bringing in $185K from an undisclosed international buyer. Pasanno says the buyer preferred to remain anonymous but that it’s a name most people would recognize. The cigar weighs 1,600 pounds, is packed with enough tobacco to fill 25,000 regular cigars, and is expected to cost $15,000 to ship overseas. Included in the price tag was a custom-designed wooden case for storage and travel. Now, you may not be able to splurge on such an extravagance for the cigar afficianados in your wedding party. But don’t let your plans for awesome groomsmen gifts go up in smoke. Groomstand.com has a wide selection of cigar accessories that will impress even the most discerning gentlemen in your group. Here are some ideas for cigar gifts for groomsemn that will make a great impression: Cigar Humidors: A specially-purposed box to hold his cigars makes a fantastic choice in groomsmen gifts. Humidors help protect precious smokes by keeping them in the ideal humidity levels. Most serious humidors have hygrometers that allow the user to adjust humidity levels. This helps keep the tobacco fresh regardless of the outside conditions in the environment. Also, the cedar linings offer another level of protection and deliver a delicious scent of cedar mingling with tobacco every time the lid is lifted. Cigar Accessories: Cutters and cases and lighters, oh my! Any guy who enjoys a smoke now and then (or all the time) will appreciate a quality piece of cigar gear to make the experience even better. Groomstand.com has a robust selection of practical yet quite luxurious cigar stuff from endless-flame lighters, hard-shell cigar cases meant to be stowed in a jacket pocket, and cigar cutters to effortlessly snip the end off a stogie. And, if your friends like to combine poker-night with cigars, we even have a poker set in a personalized poker design case – perfect groomsmen gifts to give at the game-night bachelor party. Cigar-inspired Décor: Help your groomsmen claim a little spot of cigar smoking in their own home with a customized cigar sign. These personalized pub signs can be hung in a home office, library or game room to create a relaxed, lounge-like ambiance for your friends. Given as groomsmen gifts to friends and family on your wedding day, your thoughtfulness will be remembered for years to come.

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A Big World of Beer Mug Options

The Japanese are just so inventive. From the car to the video game console, this clever country is always on the cutting edge of the next trend. ThatÍs why when we saw the commercial for the Professional Beer Foam Making Mug, they had us memorized at ñsuper gadget.î We just had to track one of these down. By the sound of all the happy affirmations from the folks using the self-fizzing glass, the mug must be a real winner. From business men and college guys to a womenÍs get-together, it seems like everyone in Japan is having a grand ole time and enjoying, as they put it, ñjoys for all people.î No batteries required on this product manufactured by Brando, simply flick the lever on top of the handle and a hammer on the bottom of the mug sends of the bubbles vigorously rising to the top. When the frothy, foamy head wears off, simply hit the lever again _ itÍs endless fun atop your beer. The print advertisement suggests that you will ñNot Only have fun, but also make your beer more delicious! Happy hour, party, BBQ, dining and gathering. Just get rid of all those trifles; let's have your private great fun time!!î How can you say no?! Okay, so if these beer mugs are a little too novelty, too cheesy to give to your beer-guzzling buddies as groomsmen gifts, GroomStand.com has plenty of other options to support the suds-loving guys in your wedding party. Really, you canÍt go wrong with a beer-inspired best man gift or groomsman gift; what guy doesnÍt practically live off the stuff? Barware always makes a practical choice for groomsmen gifts; not only can glasses be used for drinking beer on the weekends or after work, they can also be used for a host of other beverages including soda, ice tea, or some wholesome milk. Our classic sports mug is a must-have for the man cave; fill with up to 12-ounces of brew (conveniently a can) and toast to good friends and good times. If you have a bigger thirst to quench, this traditional glass much also comes in a 25-ounce size _ no more running back and forth to the fridge and missing the big game, 25 ounces should keep you busy until the next commercial break! For football enthusiasts, our NFL pint glasses are real winners! Featuring the classic silhouette of a traditional pint glass, these vessels are kicked up to epic proportions with an officially-licensed logo of the recipientÍs favorite professional football team. Once heÍs polished off his beer, heÍll find a surprise at the bottom of the glass _ a molded glass imprint of a football! Also, consider the custom glass football tumbler as an option for sporty groomsmen gifts; the unique shape and personalization is sure to make this one a favorite during football season and beyond. Not all beer mugs are made from glass. Materials like pewter and ceramic are also frequently used to provide a distinctive look. For example, our personalized gunmetal medallion mug is made from pewter and keeps contents nice and icy cold. Plus, the center medallion can be engraved with the recipientÍs name to create a lasting keepsake from your wedding. If youÍd like to honor each guyÍs specific interests, a ceramic beer mug featuring a bold graphic on the front will make any man toast to your fine taste. Designs in nearly early every hobby, pastime, sport and diversion can be found at GroomStand.com. Cheers!

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Study Says Curved Beer Mugs Increases Quantity Consumed

They say if you use a smaller plate, youÍll eat less. You would think the same theory probably holds true for the size of your glass. But, a new study of British beer drinkers has found that drinking beer from a curved glass dramatically increases the speed at which a person ñswillsî _ that is, to ñdrink or eat freely, greedily, or to excess.î The hypothesis tested assumed a beer glass, which can give the appearance of different amounts of beer depending on the shape, might additionally distort the perception of the total amount of alcohol being consumed. One hundred and sixty participants were quite easily recruited from a nearby college and divided into eight groups and screened to confirm they were only ñsocial drinkersî and not alcoholics. The study made a point of trying to exclude people who were just ñdrinking to get drunkî and would skewer the results by downing their beer. Then the participants were served either soda or beer while watching a neutral nature documentary so that they would have a diversion other than just drinking for drinkingÍs sake. They were not aware of the point of the research being conducted. Secretly, researcher timed how long it took for the drinkers to finish their respective beer or sodas. One group consistently drank much faster than the others, the group drinking a full glass of lager out of curved flute glasses. On average, the people drinking out of ñstraight glassesî consumed basically 12 ounces (354 ml) of brew in 13 minutes while the group drinking the same amount in ñcurvedî glasses polished it off in 8 minutes! The researchers believe that social drinkers pace their drinking (maybe without even realizing it) by how long it takes to reach the halfway point in a glass or beer mug. When shown photos of half full glasses in varying shapes, the participants repeatedly misjudged the levels of remaining fluid in curved flute glasses, thinking more was actually left than there was. If you and the guys enjoy an icy, cold beer every now and then, GroomStand.com has many great options in barware. Frankfurt Tall Boy Beer Mug: Unlike shorter, squattier beer mugs, this elongated vessel provides more than expected. Able to hold not just one pint but 1 _ pints of ale, lager, or other favorite brew, this mug serves straight-up style. DonÍt worry, if you believe the ñswilling studyî then you wonÍt overindulge with this personalized beer mug _ the middle point is easily identifiable! Personalized Sports Pilsner: For the guys who like to combine sports with suds, this shapely beer mug is a great choice. Treat the guys on your wedding team with these useful gifts for groomsmen. Able to hold up to 20 ounces within its curvaceous confines, you and the groomsmen may not realize how fast youÍre drinking. A practical solution to know the half-way point is to pour in 10 ounces from another cup and mark with a rubber band or piece of tape. Custom Glass Football Tumbler: If your buddies are comfortable with a football in their hands, these engraved beer mugs will feel like second nature. The contoured shape of these sporty beer mugs resembles that of a genuine NFL pigskin _ thatÍs why these tumblers and beer drinking go hand-in-hand. Fill with 23-ounces of ale, lager or preferred brew and get the party started. So, do you think itÍs true that guys unintentionally drink faster from curved beer mugs? What kind of glass do you like to use to enjoy beer _ flutes, mugs, tankards, pilsners, steins or just straight out of the bottle?

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Mixing Drinks with Speed and Cocktail Shakers

There are many skills a guy should have and one of the most essential is being able to mix up a mean drink. Most men pick up this absolute must-have ability during their bachelorhood, such as in college or in the early work years. Nothing imparts sophisticated swagger and attracts the women more than being able to mix up a wide range of adult beverages. It’s a win-win; not only are drinks made, but women are met! Perhaps it’s even how you charmed your significant other! Making one drink at a time is just fine, but making multiples is even better. Whipping up loads of libations will make you the host with the most when inviting family over for a dinner party, putting on poker night, or having the guys over to watch the big game. It’s always a nice touch to make drinks for your fiancé or new bride when she has the girls over for book club, bunko or baby showers. You’ll seem like the most handsome, charming and useful boyfriend/fiancé/husband ever to live! A guy who really wants to improve his drink-making speed should take lessons from Sheldon Wiley, a mixologist from New York City. This wizard behind the bar recent set a Guinness World Record for the most cocktails made in one hour. If you think he made about a hundred (which would be well over one per second), think again. This lightening-speed spigot slinger made 1003 cocktails within one hour to break the previous achievement of 937. And, no, it’s not solely about speed. The bartender said that he also “wanted exemplify the integrity and craft of cocktails. According to regulations, and confirmed by an on-site Guinness adjudicator, the drinks had to be make one at a time and include a minimum of three ingredients. Wiley to his craft seriously and went above and beyond the requirements, making all of his drinks with four ingredients. Dozens of fruit juices, eight vodka flavors, and an assortment of gourmet flavored syrups were the tasty tools in his rainbow-colored arsenal of beverage making. We don’t even think he had a brigade of barkeeps on hand to uncork bottles and provide clean glasses. This superlative server was flying solo! And talking about glasses, he must have exhausted the establishment’s entire supply of barware, from pilsners to beer mugs and martini glasses to shooters. But, surely there were plenty of volunteers to help consume the drinks at the end. We wonder if he had enough time to use a cocktail shaker like Tom Cruise in the 1988 movie, Cocktail ? A cocktail shaker is the classic way to both blend and chill ingredients for a drink at the same time. Thanks to the ice inside and metal exterior, the contents become icy cold after being shaken and strained into the barware of choice. Probably the most iconic drink to be whipped up in a cocktail shaker is the martini – shaken, not stirred, of course! A cocktail shaker makes a unique choice in groomsmen gifts, gifts for the groom, or special presents for men who fancy themselves master mixologists. From the classic shaker to the novelty shaker (like our penguin cocktail shaker), one of these groomsmen gifts will sit like a symbol of style and sharp skill on a guy’s home bar. And, when in use, a cocktail shaker helps ensure that a drink is made with the finest craftsmanship – enjoy! How many drinks do you think you could make in a hour? Have you ever used a cocktail shaker? For what drink recipe? Let us know below!

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