Limo Renting Tips for Grooms

If the bride has tasked you with hiring a limousine for your wedding, you can’t let her down. Nothing would be worse than pulling up to the chapel in some dilapidated jalopy of a limo. Well, actually, it could be worse; you could get stood up with no transportation at all if you choose an unreliable provider. Don’t let the bride down, get this job done – consider it a gift to the bride from the groom (but don’t cheap out, you’ll still need to get her a real gift) Before you start stressing out, we have some great tips that will keep the wheels from falling off the wonderfulness of your wedding day. Get referrals. This is one time to pay extra care to what other people think. Inquire among friends, family and co-workers; get the scoop on what limo services are well worth the expense and which ones to avoid. If you are not able to get a personal recommendation, at least check with the Better Business bureau before you book a reservation to ensure that the company doesn’t have a large number of complaints. Book early. Line up your ride well before the event – definitely not the day before, guys! If your big day is planned in the spring, you’ll want to get a contract signed on your limo service at least several months in advance. With so many weddings, proms and other formal affairs this time of year, it can sometimes be hard to track down and reserve the vehicle you want, especially if you live in a smaller market. Consider limo size. When choosing a limo, you’ll want to take into consideration the numbers of people who will be getting a lift. Bigger is better here. Limo capacity doesn’t take into account all the other intrusive factors of a wedding – large, poofy dresses, mountains of flowers, wedding gifts, groomsmen gifts, best man gifts and other space-hogging gear. So, in reality a 10 person limo might only hold six or seven. Get a contract. As previously hinted to, it is important to get a contract between you and the service provider. Not only will this outline the price and hours of service, it should also describe exactly what car will be providing your service and how emergencies, breakdowns and other contingencies will be handled. Other legal issues. Ask to see documentation that the limo service is insured in the event of personal or property damage while you are being transported. Also check to see what the company’s cancellation policy is in the event that you have to back out at the last minute due to an emergency or (heaven forbid) cold feet. For a small fee, some providers will offer cancellation insurance. Pre-drive the route. Before the wedding, drive the route from your home to the church to the reception (along with any other places you may need to go in the limo). If possible, try to make this dry-run happen at the same time of day so you can properly gage traffic and determine how much time to allot. Stock the limo: Make sure your limo has all the “must-haves” for your group including snacks, disposable cameras, a great play list and other practical things like engraved flasks and portable personalized coolers (both of which make great groomsmen gifts, by the way). So, you probably didn’t realize all the little nuisances of booking a limo. Hopefully, my list of tips will help future grooms make the best choice when planning for their big day. Have you ever run into any problems renting a car for hire or a limo? Share your tips for making the process smoother in the comment section below.

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You Can't Dodge the Bullet Forever - Wild West Weddings

Have a hankerin’ to get hitched in the Wild West? Today, in several venues around the country you can plan a wedding with the rustic vibe of life in the untamed 19th century. And, there is no threat highwaymen dropping in to steal the wedding gifts or the bride’s Pa breaking up the ceremony with his sawed off shotgun. A guy really had to have true grit and be in true love to tie the knot back during this time; most men where perfectly happy to be footloose and traveling the trails in search of found fortune. But, when a man was ready to settle down on his own piece of land, he’d need a good woman to cook up good grub, keep his shirts starched and listen to his grand plans of raising (or rustling) up a herd of cattle and a family before one day riding off into the sunset. So where’s a fitting location to get hitched? Well, Boothill Museum in Dodge City, Kansas is happy to host weddings and will transport you back to the untamed times of the 1800s. A large stagecoach makes the perfect backdrop for your vows and the bride can even rent a prairie-style wedding dress. Old Trail Town in Cody, Wyoming is another popular spot for couples who want to add some centuries-past style to their ceremony. This spot looks like a ghost town but is actually a collection of historic buildings that were lovingly transported from the abandoned nearby hills. The 1890 River Saloon, a nice spot to say “I do,” is decked out with the original flooring and bullet holes. Folks in California can head over to Knott’s Berry Farm to seal the deal with a Wild West theme; pick from a menu of era-specific options including stagecoaches rides and faux robberies. So, what should you give as groomsmen gifts if planning a Wild West wedding? One of our favorite gifts for groomsmen is a steak branding iron, especially if you’re serving up some ribeyes or T-bones for guests to enjoy at the reception. At GroomStand.com, you can find steak irons in a wide assortment of styles including single initial, multiple letter and pictorial designs. Another fine choice in best man gifts and groomsmen gifts is a personalized poker set. It’s nearly impossible to envision after-hours entertainment during this era without thinking of a bunch of rowdy men sitting around a saloon table playing poker. This idea is definitely worth recreating for your bachelor party! Don’t forget to give the bride’s parents a small token of your appreciation to be included into the family. It’s a well-known fact that in-laws don’t like outlaws, so a thank you gift that shows your domesticated side will be a winner. Try a nice personalized photo frame featuring you and the bride or a set of our photo coasters. Also, in addition to procuring groomsmen gifts, you’ll want to rustle up something respectable enough to wear on the Big Day. A western-themed wedding does not require a tuxedo; in fact you probably shouldn’t wear one! Try a pair of cowboy boots, a long duster coat or frock-style coat and a string tie – and don’t forget the hat! For the groom, a pair of personalized cufflinks will dress up the casual style without looking too fussy. GroomStand.com has a huge selection of engraved cufflinks and novelty cufflinks that will fit with whatever wedding day attire you select. What are your ideas for a Wild West or modern-day western wedding? Please share in the comments below.

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Famous Cigar Smokers in History

If your friends enjoy smoking and the finer things in life, you should consider giving cigars and cigar accessories as groomsmen gifts. A cigar inspired best man gift or groomsmen gift, like a beautiful humidor or specially-designed cigar ashtray, not only aids the recipient in the enjoyment of this luxury in life, but also sends your sentiments of appreciation. Many of us have a stereotyped image of a cigar smoker based on our past experiences. For many, this gentleman is distinguished, relaxed and exudes an air of refinement. He may or may not be rich or powerful, but when it comes to cigar smoking, heÍs a man of means and only the puffs on cigars that please his palate. Over the years, many famous people have been associated with cigars, thus lending to oneÍs perception of a ñcigar smoker.î The thought of some of these celebrity smokers would be nearly unrecognizable if they didnÍt have a cigar lolling between the lips. Inspired by a list from Cigars Magazine, these men were known world-wide for their cigar fancy. Winston Churchill: This leader of England reportedly smoked 10 cigars a day and even had a special oxygen mask made for high-altitude flying that allowed him to enjoy his favorite vice. Churchill was once said ñ"my rule of life prescribed as an absolutely sacred rite smoking cigars and also the drinking of alcohol before, after and if need be during all meals and in the intervals between them.î Fidel Castro: Although he gave up the habit in 1985, this iron fist of Cuba was a serious cigar smoker for over 40 years. To set a public example of good health for his people, he quit smoking cigars, even in private. Although a cigar has not touched his lips, he has reported that he dreams about cigars and still enjoys the pastime in his sleep. King Edward VII: Immediately following his coronation n 1901, this British member of the monarchy made a royal announcement to the room, ñGentleman, you may smoke.î Until he came on the scene, tobacco had not been tolerated well under Queen VictoriaÍs rule, but Edward made sure that the habit was ñheartilyî encouraged. Mark Twain: This famous American author reportedly smoked a minimum of 22 cigars a day _ some say even up to 40! This hard-core connoisseur of the cigar once exclaimed, ñIf smoking is not allowed in heaven, I shall not go.î The interesting thing about Twain is that, despite is success, he didnÍt keep the best-quality cigars in his humidor and once even ñtrickedî guests into smoking inferior cigars by swapping labels and cigar boxes. John F. Kennedy: Using his political power, our 35th president ordered staff to procure a huge stash of Cuban cigars in early 1962. Why the rush? Well, Kennedy was just about to sign a trade embargo with Cuba that would prevent imports, including his favorite cigars, from entering the US. Ever since the day this embargo was signed, all tobacco products from Cuba are not allowable for sale to Americans. With well over 1,000 cigars in his stockpile, he could light up whenever the mood struck. George Burns: This legend of entertainment, performed stand-up comedy gigs well into his late 90s. During his act, Burns always seemed to have a cigar in his hand or mouth. Typically heÍd be seen with a lower quality cigar, but no because he couldnÍt afford a better smoke. The explanation for his taste in cigars was simply that the cheaper smokes stayed lit longer on stage. Burns, who lived to 100, claims that smoking up to15-cigar-a-day each and every day for more than 70 years kept him agile and quick-witted on stage and also helped him outlive his doctor. Groucho Marx - Often, cigars would get this old-school comedian into trouble. In reference to his "stinky old cigar," his then 3rd wife ordered him to extinguish it or find a new wife. Another time, Marx splurged for an expensive Cuban cigar after seeing an ad that promised "thirty glorious minutes in Havana." After smoking it down in 20 minutes, Max complained to the shopkeeper for a replacement. One after another, he smoked 5 cigars with the same 20 minute outcome, until the merchant wised up and tossed him out.

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Pros and Cons of Eloping

Have you ever thought about running away in the middle of the night, with only a small suitcase and your beautiful bride in tow? Not having an over-the-top wedding does sound like the perfect gift for the groom! TodayÍs culture has been drifting toward huge mega-weddings, with months and months (if not well over a year) of planning, hundreds of guests in attendance and thousands and thousands of dollars spent. ItÍs enough to make a guy guzzle an entire engraved flask! If you feel overwhelmed by the expectations of a modern big wedding, eloping is still a viable option. However, youÍll want to weigh the pros and cons of eloping as well as familiarize yourself with the destinations requirements for marriage before you hit the road to tie the knot. Pros: Save money: The average cost of a traditional wedding is upwards of $28,000 dollars and many weddings cost exponentially more. Really there is no limit to the amount of money you can spend on getting married. There are quite a few alternatives to consider that will save you big bucks that range from just getting married down at the Justice of the Peace for the just the cost of a marriage license and witness to flying off to a resort destination that can offer a wedding package for a fraction of the price youÍd spend at home on a big wedding. Plus, there are always the drive-thru chapels in Las Vegas. Save Time and Headaches: Traditional weddings can take a year or more to plan; venues have to be secured, photographers booked, entertainment and caterers interviewed. Elopements donÍt need all of these ñextrasî and can be arranged in a matter of days. For busy couples that can't afford to put in the manpower for a big wedding, an elopement can save the day while saving their sanity. Avoid Awkward Situations: Eloping works especially well for a second marriage because many awkward situations can be avoided. Problems like inviting ex-spouses, blending families who may not be supportive and other sensitive issues (like should we accept wedding gifts) can be sidestepped with a private elopement. Later, after the fact, a post-wedding reception can always be held if you change your mind about including family. Cons: Excluding Family: No matter how diplomatic you try to be, there will probably be backlash from family and friends who what to be involved in your Big Day. While these folks may not approve of an elopement, it is best to explain your reasons for doing so rather than just dashing off and leaving them in the dark. Wedding Regret: While other friends may be looking fondly over their wedding albums on landmark anniversaries, youÍll not have the same sort of traditional memories filled with dozens of bridesmaids and groomsmen. You certainly donÍt need the formal wedding mementos to have a long and happy marriage, just communicate with each other before you elope to makes sure neither one of you is feeling pressured to ñrun awayî and ditch the big wedding experience. Feeling Rushed: The flipside to spending multiple months planning a conventional ceremony, throwing together an elopement can make you feel rushed. What will you wear (guys, we suggest dressing up with engraved cufflinks), where will you find an officiant, how will you manage to slip away from work. Even with an elopement, there are still many details that can make you feel frenzied if youÍre trying to pull it off the union in a jiffy.

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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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Is This Anyway to Start "Until Death Do We Part"

Are you too busy to attend your own wedding? Perhaps you have a business meeting at corporate headquarters, are enjoying a vacation and don’t want to come back or, more likely, been deployed overseas with the military. Well, never fear, for if you live in California, Colorado, Texas or Montana you can get married “by proxy.” In a marriage by proxy, either the bride or the groom does not appear in person for the wedding ceremony. During the solemnization of the marriage, another person stands in for the absent party, acting on a power of attorney. And, in certain counties of Montana, both the bride AND the groom do not have to be physically present to get married – this is called a “double proxy” marriage. One of the most famous unions created by double proxy was that of Emperor Napoleon and Archduchess Marie Louise in 1810. It’s hard to believe you could be in one place and the bride could be thousands of miles apart and you could still get married. Now that’s a gift for the groom who doesn’t like to be the center of attention -- or even the attention of his finance. These laws were originally put on the books for the convenience of military personnel who were stationed apart yet need to get married in a hurry. But, of course, people from all over the world take advantage of the strange law and try to get hitched through mere paperwork in Montana. Just because you don’t have to show up for a double proxy wedding doesn’t mean it’s free. The expenses incurred by the real bride and groom includes $50 apiece to the proxies (agents who have agreed to stand in as “bride” and “groom”), $100 to the judge, $150 to the lawyer (and witness); $53 for court fees; $14 for two certified copies of the marriage certificate. However, this is a small fraction of the price for flying back from overseas for the weekend to attend your wedding and all the other expenses that go with that such as tuxedos, wedding cakes and so on. Another issue to note with marriage by proxy is that it may not be considered legal in states outside where the union was originally created. While some states may give the thumbs up, other states may only recognize the union as a common-law marriage. Iowa is the only state in the US doesn’t acknowledge them at all. It is good to check out all the legal implications before you say your virtual “I do’s.” Many people who opt in for this curious ceremony may actually choose to have a siblings or friends stand in rather than hiring a “professional” proxy. If this is the case, remember to choose a thoughtful gift to send as a way of saying “thank you for filling in for me during my absence.” For your stand-in groom, any number of best man gifts or groomsmen gifts would be appropriate. Spare no expense; after all, it is his big day in a way, too! Fancy choices from the groomsmen gift selection at Groomstand.com include fine leather goods that can be used in the home and office. This includes briefcases, writing portfolios, wallets of all shapes and sizes, passport covers, trinket boxes and more. A practical luxury that you can give is a fine pen in handsome presentation box. He can use the writing implement to sign the marriage license and then take it to write a love note to his own sweetie later that day! What do you think about marriage by proxy? In what circumstances, if ever, would you choose to tie the knot this way? Let us know in the comments below.

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Best-Ever Beer Cocktail for a Summer Wedding

Now that I have caught the attention of beer-loving grooms everywhere, let me elaborate. IÍm talking about the Michelada, the Mexican beer cocktail that is made with beer, tomato juice, spices, sauces and such. A good way to describe it is as a Bloody Mary made with beer instead of vodka. And, if you failed high school Spanish and are stumbling over the pronunciation, just say ñmee-che-LAH-dah.î This "cerveza preparada" is a refreshing and tasty option for your wedding reception or bachelor party. I like a lot of things about the Michelada. In addition to the taste, the drink makes an economical choice for a larger wedding and one that wonÍt get guests overly intoxicated (well less so than drinks made with hard liquor). You can use bottles or cans of beer in the recipe -- or even tap from a keg of beer. The one thing to remember though is to always, always use a Mexican beer like Corona or Dos Eques, for an authentic taste, somehow it just doesnÍt keep the same south-of-the-border flair when using a Pabst Blue Ribbon. Drinking a Michelada reminds me that variety is the spice of life. There are so many different takes on the casual cocktail; it varies by the region, bartender and personal preference. For example, a ñcheladaî contains simply lime and sea salt, but not any of the tomato juices and spicy sauces. A ñcubanaî is made with Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, chile and salt. And, a ñclamatoî is made with clam and tomato juice. The drink actually started when a Latin American fellow would ask his bartender for what was, for all practical purposes, a beer lemonade. The citrusy concoction caught on with his friends and, over time, was changed to add other ingredients. Spanish-speakers also say that the word Michelada sounds similar to the phrase ñMi chela helada," which loosely translates into saying ñMy cold beer.î Give me a cold beer now! The Michelada movement has really taken off in the United States and a number major breweries are now bottling their own versions. Homemade batches of the recipe are still the best though, the ingredients are far fresher and itÍs meant to be served in a pleasing-to-hold pint glass, not some cheap aluminum can or bottle. Groomstand.com has a nice selection of pint glasses that work perfectly with this cocktail. Our old-fashioned mason jar glasses are also fun with this recipe. There are rumors that a good Michelada in the morning can also help to cure a hangover. We think itÍs based on the ñhair of the dog that bit you theory.î Hope you enjoy our favorite recipe for a Michelada and make sure to hook your buddies up with personalized beer mugs and personalized coasters as fitting groomsmen gifts. Groomsmen Micheladas coarse salt for rim pint glass ice cubes 1 _ cup Clamato¬ juice (or tomato juice) _ cup salt 1 lemon, juiced 1 dash Tabasco¬ (or more to taste) _ teaspoon soy sauce _ cup cold beer Lemon wedges for garnish Wet rim of pint glass and dip into coarse salt. Turn glass back over and add ice cubes. Fill glass up two-thirds of the way with Clamato juice; add salt, lemon juice, Tabasco and soy sauce. Stir lightly to combine. Pour in beer, stir gently again. Garnish with lemon. Makes just one Michelada so youÍll have to repeat for each groomsmen who is patiently standing in line. Or, you can also multiply the ingredients and make enough for everyone in one big batch. So, have you ever had a Michelada? If so, what is your favorite version? Let us know in the comments below.

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Honeymoon Travel Tips

Every groom and his bride can expect the honeymoon to be a memorable trip, wherever the location. Memorable for most honeymoons conjures up images of romance, relaxation and few worries. But, keep in mind that “memorable” can also mean “events have gone disastrously wrong.” Make sure you recall your honeymoon with fondness in the years to come by being aware of issues during travel that could arise and screw things up. And, remember, if the bride’s not happy, you’re not happy! If at all possible, don’t book your honeymoon flight in the early morning after the wedding. If your reception is planned in the evening, you will most likely be staying up very late. No couple wants to have to have a wake-up call when it’s still dark outside – or, worse yet, wants to risk sleeping through the alarm clock. Make sure your luggage is marked in case it gets misrouted during your travels. Nothing would be sadder to not have those sundresses and bathing suits she picked out for her dream beach vacation. Our Mr. & Mrs. Luggage Tags make an eye-catching statement on your luggage, you’ll see them as soon as then whirl by on the carousel. Splurge on your honeymoon and surprise the bride. Plan an exclusive excursion or fancy dinner, something you wouldn’t do on an ordinary vacation. Every honeymoon should have several wonderful things to remember. Purchase the bride’s airline ticket with her maiden name. Security at the airports requires that the traveler’s name exactly match a driver’s license, passport or approved identification card. Unless your honeymoon is quite some time after the actual wedding, there is no way your bride would have had time to change her last name on these documents. If you are traveling to a destination that requires a passport, make sure that you give yourself enough lead time to obtain or update yours. Some countries require that your passport be valid for as long as three months when you enter the country, even if you’re planning to leave before it expires. Check out the status of your passport as soon as you decide where the honeymoon will be. Don’t wait until the last minute. And, treat the both of your to a nice leather passport cover. Find out if there are any required or suggested immunizations needed for your honeymoon destination. Make your doctor’s appointments with enough lead time to get these medical needs taken care of. Go to The Center for Disease Control and Prevention to find out what’s needed a (cdc.gov). Take security precautions with your money and valuables while travelling. Remind the bride that purse snatchers are on the prowl in tourist locations and guard your wallet as well. In fact, guys are safest to keep their cash and credit cards in a money belt or contained in a money clip stashed in a front pocket (never the back pocket). As much as she loves it, convince your bride to leave her expensive engagement ring at home and keep her other items nestled away in our leather travel jewelry case. If you need to motivate her to leave her diamond ring in the bank vault or with a trusted family member, simply purchase her an inexpensive faux replica to wear while the two of you are off on the adventure of a lifetime. Where are you planning to go on your honeymoon? If you have any additional tips on making travel easier, let us know in the comments below.

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Having a Best Dog in your Wedding

Sometimes inviting your “best friend” to be in the wedding means stocking up on jerky treats and squeak toys. No, we’re not talking about your college roommate (even though he has been known to drink out of the toilet bowl), but about that fearless and faithful friend, Fido. Because many guys consider their dog to be part of the family, it only makes logical sense to make them part of your joyous celebration. A growing number of grooms and their brides are including a pet as part of the wedding day lineup. Jobs for your four-legged pal include best man, groomsmen, ring bearer, escort, entertainment or tried-and-true companions. Arranging to have a loved pet in the wedding is truly a memorable gift for the groom. Before you let your canine sidekick out of the proverbial cage, there are some practical issues to take into account. Is your dog well-rounded enough for a wedding? Sure you love your dog, but will others attending the wedding feel the same way? Is your dog calm yet people-oriented? Obedient, but with a healthy dash of tail-wagging personality? How does your dog react to dressing up in any clothes or accessories (such as a bow tie) that might be required on the wedding day? Who will be the “handler” for your dog at the ceremony and reception? As the groom, you will be busy walking down the aisle and focusing your attention on the vows. During the reception, your duties as groom will be pulling you in a million different directions. This means that your furry friend will need a “chaperone” to make sure that he performs his role, doesn’t run off and has access to food, water and a nice spot to nap. Because your dog is out of his normal routine, it’s best that this handler not be someone new. Instead, a well-known, well-sniffed friend or family member is the best choice. Do you have approval from your wedding venue? Don’t forget to check with the location of your ceremony and reception to make sure a “non-service” dog is allowed on the premises. Just imagine how stressful it would be to both you and your dog to discover at the last minute that pets are not welcomed. If in doubt, reserve a kennel nearby so that Fido has a safe place to hang-out while you tie the knot. Have you thought about groomsmen gifts for your dog? He’s been your wingman, your loyal companion and listened to you ramble endlessly without butting in, he surely deserves a special treat. Even though your pooch might not be best “man” in the traditional sense, he still should be honored for his role in your both your life and special day. A new, comfy dog bed or assortment or chew bones are sure to be greeted with a sloppy wet kiss. Or, check out our personalized t-shirts that give titles to the best man, groomsmen and other members of the wedding party. While they are meant for men, it is easy to knot the bottom of one around a dog’s middle for a fun (and funny) look. Don’t forget an extra groomsmen gift for the handler. Most likely the dog handler in your wedding will be a good friend or family member, perhaps even the human best man or one of the groomsmen. No doubt this person is a dog lover and an extra groomsmen gift that is dog-themed would be well-received. Our personalized bulldog pub sign makes a welcoming statement in any guy’s man cave while our personalized bulldog beer mug offers a way to make the brew go down with canine charisma. Have you been to a wedding where the bride and groom included a dog? Thumbs up or thumbs down; let us know in the comments below.

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How Grooms Can Help Out With Wedding Planning

Even though the wedding day is billed as “the bride’s day,” it doesn’t mean that the groom’s role is unimportant. In fact, the groom’s role is very important – he’s one-half of the union that is about to take place. Without the groom, the bride would be marrying an imagined husband – and that’s called crazy-makings in our book. So, if you take the point of view that it is also “the groom’s day” (which you should), you need to be aware of the responsibilities of your role. Brush up on the traditional responsibilities of a bridegroom below. However, if wedding planning appeals to you and want to break with tradition, talk to the bride about other tasks you can take on other than those listed below. Sharing the wedding workload a great way to start your marriage! Pay your share: Although it has long been customary for the bride’s father to pay for the actual wedding ceremony and reception, the groom and his family also have financial obligations. For example, the groom is responsible for paying for the wedding rings ( in addition to the engagement ring), his wedding day attire, the marriage license, the officiant fee for the priest or justice of the peace, bouquets for the bride and bridal party, best man gifts and groomsmen gifts, and the honeymoon. In addition, it is standard practice for the groom and his parents to host a dinner for both families and key members of the wedding party the night before the wedding, after the actual wedding rehearsal run-through. Best Man and Groomsmen Gifts: It is always in good taste to thank the friends who have stood by your side on the Big Day and for the years leading up to it with a thoughtful groomsmen gift. Even if you hate shopping, you shouldn’t just run out to Wal-Mart and buy the first thing you see. They have put in many hours supporting you in this event, from traveling to errand-running to listening to you complain of cold feet or difficult future in-laws. Don’t do “generic” gifts; Groomstand.com has a wide range of groomsmen gifts that may be personalized to show that you were thinking especially of them. Add a name, the wedding date or some special message that holds relevance between you and the recipient. Gift for the Bride: This is a gesture (and expense) that most grooms aren’t aware of until the bride or mother-in-law fills them in on the expectations. Many men think that the engagement ring, wedding ring or just giving up bachelorhood is the “gift” to the bride; but, trust us; she won’t see it that way. And, she’ll be giving you a wedding gift, so you’ll feel like a real heal if you don’t have something equally impressive for her. You don’t have to spend a ton of money on a gift for the bride from the groom. However, it should be something sentimental, meaningful and given from your heart. A vacuum cleaner or gift card to the local bar and grill won’t cut it, but a nice personalized gift like a locket or engraved Mr. & Mrs. picture frame bearing a sweet photo of the two of you will! The Honeymoon: In the past, the groom would plan and pay for they honeymoon, but these are not steadfast rules in today’s culture. However, it is a great gesture to offer to take on the task of planning your getaway so the bride can be freed up to tackle other wedding-planning tasks. Unless she is game for a “surprise” honeymoon (which I doubt she would be), it is best to sit down and talk about expectations for budget, location and length before you actually plunk down money on plane tickets, a cruise, a resort suite, day excursions or other honeymoon expenses. Also, get ready for the trip with some of the practical personalized travel items from Groomstand.com such as Mr. & Mrs. luggage tags and leather passport holders.

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Grooms, Make the Rehearsal Dinner Yours

ItÍs pretty obvious the wedding is about the bride; that is, if you listen to most people. Phrases like ñitÍs the brideÍs dayî and ñall eyes on the brideî make it seem like the groom is quite expendable and should take a backseat in the decision-making process. It seems like all guys get to do are order the tuxedos and pick out the groomsmen gifts. Women get bridal showers (although couple and groom showers are catching on), get to wear something out of the ordinary, and basically get treated like queens through the whole wedding process. If you are a guy getting married stand up and make a statement that your opinions count to, and that it is ñthe groomÍs dayî too. The rehearsal dinner is one event that you can plan and execute how you see fit. Especially considering that itÍs the groomÍs parents and/or the groom who pays for and hosts the event. The rehearsal dinner is traditionally held the night before the wedding and is a good way to give the two families a chance to get to know each other. Also, itÍs a place where the groomsmen and bridesmaids can mix and mingle and meet the families too. What a great opportunity to celebrate with your family in friends in the way that you see fit! If that means at a sports bar over burgers and beer or on the beach with a blazing bonfire, youÍll feel great knowing youÍve shown your genuine personality and style through the festivities. Of course, if your bride likes to take control over everything (sheÍs a planner, and thatÍs a good thing), discuss with her about backing off this one evening. However, donÍt take over planning the rehearsal dinner without talking to her first. Two-way communication is always the best way to start off and continue a marriage. Assure her that the affair will be a relaxed, fun event where the ice will be broken and stress will be relieved. And, even better for her, she doesnÍt have to worry about anything or lift a single finger. YouÍve got it covered! Here are some things youÍll want to consider when planning your rehearsal dinner. Book the venue about 4 months from the wedding. DonÍt assume that the bowling alley party room is going to be available for you on a momentÍs notice. Decide on the menu (based on your budget) and decide if you will be hosting a sit-down dinner, just appetizers and drinks, or having foods catered to your location (like barbeque in a barn). Notify the people you would like to give toasts at the rehearsal dinner such as your parents, the best man, the groomsmen or whomever! Give them enough time to get their thoughts together and practice if needed. Put together a little audio-visual material. Although this is optional, guests always love seeing pictures of the happy couple when they were very young. You could make a slide show, movie or even just a poster board display. Mail invitations about a month ahead of time. If it is a very small or casual rehearsal dinner, you could get away with emails, phone calls or online invitation services. Other unique ideas including sending an edible cookie card or scrolling up your invitation and sticking in a beer mug! Order flowers, props, personalized napkins or take-home favors for your guests about one month ahead of time. Purchase groomsmen gifts and decide if you would like to present them at the rehearsal dinner, before the wedding ceremony while all of you are waiting together, or later that night at the reception part. Please tell us any unique ideas you have for rehearsal dinners _ from venues and food to favors and ice-breaker games. Use the comment section below.

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April Fool's Day Pranks for a Wedding

While getting married is a serious matter, thereÍs no reason not to add a little fun to the festivities, especially on and around April FoolÍs Day. Or, if you have a reputation for pranks and practical jokes, you could get away with a shenanigan or two at a celebration any time of the year. While it probably isnÍt in good taste to pull off a prank at the actual ceremony, the other wedding events are fair game _ such as the bachelor party, wedding showers, bridal events, family lunches, and so on. While pranks are fun, you donÍt want to poke fun, upset, or embarrass the friends, family and other guests who have gathered to support you during this time. What you think is funny could be interpreted as mean-spirited or malicious by another, thatÍs why itÍs always a good idea to run your prank through a few ñgates.î Reveal the prank to at least one close comrade or family member to make sure that itÍs not too ñover the top.î You donÍt want to make the bride cry or send her mother into a hissy fit. And, you definitely donÍt want to initiate a prank unless you are the bride or the groom; otherwise you risk losing a friendship. Here are some fun ideas for an April FoolÍs Day prank at a wedding-related event: Tie candy Ring Pops onto the ring bearÍs pillow. Of course youÍll have the real bling hidden in the best manÍs pocket and the pint-sized wedding helper can keep the edible rings as one of his >ring bearer gifts. Arrange for a celebrity impersonator to show up at your wedding, especially a sexy star who will make the groomsmenÍs jaws drop. Think of what a fun groomsman gift this would be! Snap a picture so each buddy can show off his celebrity meet-up long after the wedding.> Hire a troop of professional yo-yo performers to entertain guests at the wedding reception before you arrive. Give each guest a >personalized yo-yo as a wedding favor and have them show of their new skills in a commemorative ñadviceî video for the bride and groom about the ñups and downsî of marriage.> Surprise everyone watching and do the hokey pokey for your first dance. Shake it all about!> Serve ñsurpriseî wedding food in a uber-formal setting. Imagine tuxedo-wearing waiters opening domed silver trays to reveal corn dogs, pork rinds or funnel cakes. Sure to get a laugh and get gobbled up.> Put on one of those choreographed dance routines that turn into viral videos, like the Michael Jackson ñThrillerî dance that started it all! YouÍll have to practice for many hours with your buddies, but the reaction youÍll get from your audience is well worth it! Make sure to give the guys awesome >groomsmen gifts for being part of this prank! Try to set a world record at your wedding and get all the guests to participate. Go for the largest amount of rose petals tossed, the fastest ñraceî down the wedding aisle, or the most years of marriage by all guests combined. Get creative and call in a Guinness Book representative to make it official.> Create photo pranks like the shot where the groom has written the words ñhelp meî on the bottoms of his shoes, so that when he kneels the congregation will see is plea. Or, have all the groomsmen AND bridesmaids wear stick-on mustaches as they walk down the aisle, this is especially funny if you are a guy known for his distinctive facial hair.> Fill the >groomsmen flasks with something unexpected like chocolate milk or prune juice. The ideas go on and on. Do you have any good wedding prank ideas? Let us know in the comments below:

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