GROOMS: Tools for You (So Nothing Screws up the Big Day!)

GROOMS: tools for you (so nothing screws up the big day!)

a special supplement to

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 1 IT’S YOUR SPECIAL DAY, TOO. Have the wedding of both your dreams. With over 14,000 square feet of event space, including a ballroom that can accommodate up to 400 guests, and over 1,200 electronic games and 20 table games, Cherokee Casino & Hotel West Siloam Springs is perfect for the bride and the groom.

U.S. Hwy 412 & 59, West Siloam Springs, OK 800.754.4111 • CherokeeCasino.com

CNENT_27055-01_WSS_Grooms_Guide_Ad_8x10-875_1310262.indd 1 4/17/13 11:30 AM 16 20

Let us take you back in time to the golden age of jazz. The Savoy combines the elegance and style of the 1920s with today’s culinary expertise of Little Rock’s top chefs.

Share this special day with us and we will customize an evening you and your guests will remember forever. Gather for cocktails on the patio and relax around our cozy firepit. Then move inside to our private dining room to enjoy a gourmet dinner designed by you and our award winning chefs. Call or stop by for a friendly tour. We invite you to experience an evening with us that you will not soon forget. a new experience in fine dining 1620 Market Street Reservations West Little Rock www.1620savoy.com 501-221-1620

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT OF ARKANSAS BRIDE arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 3 A NOTE FROM SAM

ROOMS, Chances are, it’s been a stressful Publisher Rachel Bradbury engagement. Editor Lindsay Irvin G Art Director Erin Lang You waited in agony for the perfect moment to pop the question. Every detail had to be perfect, EDITORIAL Assistant Editor Samuel G. Smith and the stakes were high. InArkansas.com Editor Lauren James What if you’re late for the dinner reservation? Deputy Online Editor Tre Baker

What if you forget the ring? PHOTO: MEREDITH MELODY PHOTOGRAPHY Database Administrator Alex Graham

What if she says no? SALES & MARKETING But, thank goodness, she didn’t take too long getting ready for dinner, the Senior Account Executive Betsy Tilley ring stayed safe and sound in your coat pocket, and, most of all, she said yes. Account Executives Michelle Foshee, Brandy Hubener Th e hard part is over. Right? Advertising Coordinators Bekah Not by a long shot. While your fi ancé is busy with her dream wedding Caraway, Kristen Heldenbrand, Alissa Mathews Pinterest board, rounding up bridesmaids and picking the perfect venue, color Marketing Director Jake Sligh scheme, photographer, menu, fl owers and dress, this is not the time to wait Marketing Manager Allyson Pittman patiently until you say “I do.” Marketing Coordinator Bethany Johnson

We’ve jam-packed this little book – our very fi rst Groom’s Guide – with all DESIGN the tools you need for your big day, including what to wear and how to wear Production Manager Tona Jolly it, what tradition says the groom’s side is responsible for, and words of wisdom Senior Art Director Irene Forbes from real grooms that have been there before. Advertising Art Directors John Atkinson, Marcus Boyce, Dean Wheeler Plus, we’ve got the skinny on rehearsal dinner hotspots, unique Arkansas Digital Operations Specialist Rebekah bachelor parties, tips on choosing your wedding ring, wedding toast dos and Eveland don’ts, ideas for memorable groomsmen gifts and so much more! CIRCULATION Th umb through and let us know what you think. We’d love to answer your Circulation Manager Dana Meyer questions or hear what helped. Drop us a line at [email protected]. ADMINISTRATION Congratulations, and good luck! Accounting Manager Hal Lammey Accounting Assistant Kim Clark Human Resources Bill Page

Samuel G. Smith, Assistant Editor Chairman & CEO Olivia Myers Farrell General Manager Mitch Bettis Chief Operating Ofﬁ cer Chuck Ballard ONLINE TOOLS TO USE! Chief Information Ofﬁ cer Brent Birch Publishers Rachel Bradbury, Chip Taulbee Online Editor Lance Turner

4 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 5 WHAT THE GROOM’S SIDE PAYS FOR Consider this your fi rst honey-do list.

radition holds the groom and his family are responsible for some of the wedding expenses. Here’s a breakdown of the most common responsibilities you and your Tfamily might be expected to bear before and after you say “I do.”

THE BRIDE’S RINGS Th at means her engagement ring and her wedding band. Know her ring size beforehand — don’t guess! THE OFFICIANT’S EXPENSES Th is includes the offi ciant’s transportation, lodging and fee (or donation) for offi ciating the ceremony. Traditionally, the best man delivers the offi ciant’s fee after the ceremony. BAND TOGETHER Also, don’t forget to include the offi ciant in your ceremony The bride is expected to take care of the groom’s wedding band. rehearsal and rehearsal dinner plans the night before the Think she might need a little help picking yours out, or don’t have wedding. Th at means you might have to pay for one more a clue what you want? Turn to page 10 for a little wedding band night’s lodging. 101. WEDDING ATTIRE Whether you’re buying or renting, the groom’s side handles your wedding outfi t expenses. And not just yours — your father and brother(s), too. Th ough it’s not necessary, it’s nice to help out groomsmen with their attire if you can. Hint: Unless you’ve off ered to pay, groomsmen are responsible for their own attire, but if you ask your crew to wear matching shoes, ties, vests, socks, etc., be mindful of each item’s THE MARRIAGE LICENSE cost and considerate of Th is task can’t be checked off your to-do list until each groomsmen’s unique 60 days before the big day. Mark your calendar fi nancial situation. so you don’t forget — your vows aren’t offi cial GROOM: MICHAEL RIGGS without this piece of paper. PHOTO: HUDSON PHOTOGRAPHY Hint: Expect to spend about $58, and bring cash. Credit cards and checks aren’t accepted.

6 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 THE GROOM’S SIDE

LODGING & TRANSPORTATION Provide lodging and transportation for you and your family, and again, if you’re feeling generous, for your groomsmen. Immediate family traveling in from out-of-town should be accommodated if you can aff ord it.

Consider this your fi rst honey-do list. GIFTS • A wedding present for the bride • Th ank-you gifts for your groomsmen and ushers (great ideas on page 18), which you give at the rehearsal dinner • A thank-you present for your parents for hosting the rehearsal dinner • Go “halvsies” with the bride on a thank-you gift for her parents for hosting the wedding

FLOWERS It has long been tradition for the groom to buy his bride’s bouquet for the wedding day, as well as THE REHEARSAL DINNER fl owers for a few others in the Th e rehearsal dinner can be formal or informal, and is often wedding, including: themed to fi t the wedding style or complement the couple’s • Corsages for the mothers of relationship. Traditionally, the groom’s parents plan this the bride and groom event and cover its expenses, including: • Corsages for the • Invitations (Who to invite? Turn to page 15) grandmothers of the bride • Venue (Great venues on page 16) and groom • Food/alcohol • Boutonnières for the • Décor groomsmen and ushers • Transportation to/from the rehearsal dinner, if needed • Boutonnières for the fathers • Photographer for the rehearsal, if desired of the bride and groom

OW FOR THE FUN STUFF: THE You get to plan a vacation. Th e Nhoneymoon is all you — don’t let your new bride down. Remember that planning HONEYMOON in advance saves you money and her stress. Your bride will begin checking in with you three to six months out to make sure you’ve handled the following: • Transportation to/ • Car rental from the airport • Meals • Airfare • Activities • Lodging • Passports

Hint: Don’t wait till the last minute. Rush ordered passports are much more expensive and cause a lot of unnecessary stress right before the big day.

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 7 WEDDING SECRETS REVEALED Words of wisdom from real Arkansas grooms who’ve been there, done that. 7 Take heed, husbands-to-be. “The engagement ring is NOT your “Learning how to compromise is a last purchase. Don’t forget the must if you’re interested in having wedding band! Sounds really a marriage that’s going to last. simple, but I forgot all about Compromising during the wedding it and had to have a custom planning process will help you wedding band made last minute.” avoid a lot of arguments and nights in the doghouse. Don’t be too infl exible in regard to –RALPH BRADBURY wedding colors, offi ciants, venues and other aspects of PHOTO: WHITNEY BOWER IMAGING the ceremony.” –RYAN HOWARD PHOTO: DREW CASON PHOTOGRAPHY “Don’t rent the tux (monkey suit). Those are made to fi t everyone, and therefore fi t no one well. “Tell your wife how beautiful she is, Guys, buy a suit. It doesn’t have how much you love her and how to be expensive. It does have to blessed and lucky you are that fi t well.” you were able to stand beside –ZACHARY NEEL her! She can have 500 people tell PHOTO: DREW CASON PHOTOGRAPHY her these things, but none of it will compare to the weight of her (new) husband’s words.” –TONY WARRIOR “Never take your eyes off your PHOTO: CHRISTOPHER NOLAN PHOTOGRAPHY bride because she will never look as beautiful as she does in that moment.” “Remember that your soon-to-be –DAVID BEARDEN wife has been imagining, and PHOTO: MISS BEY PHOTOGRAPHY quite literally, planning this day in her head since she was old enough to walk. Fix what you can “Have everyone try on their tux! when it goes wrong (and it will) and You cannot imagine what kind of be empathetic for the things you can’t.” size mix-ups happen with some –NATE TILLEY of these tuxes, especially for PHOTO: SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY those who have to travel from out of town because they don’t have as much time as the others to get it corrected.” –JUSTIN FOSHEE PHOTO: DANIELLE DAVIS ART/PHOTOGRAPHY

8 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 CREATIVE GROOM’S CAKES Rip off one of these cool confections or cook up an original idea per your personality and hobbies.

MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU BAND TOGETHER SWEET STEAMPUNK LOVE LIFE STORIES / CarperPhoto.com Taylor Howard Photography Beaty Photography Groom: Joshua Leal Groom: Kenneth Hill Groom: Tyler Power Bakery: Joanie’s Pretty Party Cakes, North Little Rock Bakery: Blue Cake Company, Little Rock Bakery: Shelby Lynn’s Cake Shoppe, Springdale

CALL OF THE WILD BATTER UP DRUM LINE Meredith Melody Photography Smith-Stevens Photography Zoë Weddings by Kim Groom: Daniel Snow Groom: Jimmy Mason Groom: Steven Woodson Bakery: Blue Cake Company, Little Rock Bakery: Harp’s, Hot Springs Bakery: Donna Woodson, mother of the groom

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 9 How to Choose Your WEDDING BAND Dad might have chosen a simple flat gold band, but times are a-changing. Modern grooms have the option to show a lot more personality with their wedding rings. Use our guide to wedding band materials, styles and trends to shop with confidence and get a ring you’ll love as much as her. MATERIALS

GOLD TITANIUM TUNGSTEN PLATINUM OTHER Yellow gold is the Durability and lightness Although it can be A white gleam makes Unfortunately for the traditional choice, and are this metal’s main polished to a shiny this rare precious metal groom wanting a simple today’s grooms are upsides, and with its finish and is extremely a popular choice for decision, groom’s bands sporting gold alloys like grayish hue, it carries hard, a high impact wedding bands. It’s are now appearing in gleaming white gold an understated but might crack or shatter a more likely to scratch almost every material or warm and rich rose dignified appearance. tungsten ring. than harder metals, imaginable. Rustic gold. And although we’ve Photo: Colin Quek/Flickr though, but a buff by an wooden rings are now heard it’s impossible experienced jeweler can available, as are bands to get one of these bad take it right out. made of recycled boys off your finger in materials, ceramics and the event of swelling, more. rest assured this is just Photo: BentwoodBands.com a rumor.

EMBELLISHMENTS GET IT IN PATTERNS: Sculpted edges, inlays and textured finishes can create interest on an otherwise traditional ring. Classic choices WRITING include milgrain – a beaded pattern – as well as hammered, brushed and grooved, but the options are nearly endless and range from subtle and stately to bold and contemporary. Photo: Firemedic5/Flickr

STONES: They’re not just for the bride anymore. Inlaid stones, including white and black diamonds, emeralds, sapphires and more are becoming increasingly popular on the groom’s side TRAUB C. WAYNETTE of things. One potential caveat, though: since stones can get ome grooms are taking “till death damaged or fall out, grooms who work with their hands might Sdo us part” to a whole new level want to get a band without them. Photo: Bence Fördős/Flickr with indelible tattoo rings. Instead of or in addition to their wedding band, grooms and their brides are inking the ENGRAVINGS: Many couples engrave their wedding dates, deal with a tattooed band, a cross, pet names or religious messages on the insides of their wedding initials or a heart on their ring fingers. bands. It’s a little something special to make the wedding band Fitting for the alternative bride and you choose even more meaningful. groom, indeed. Photo: LikeableRodent/Flickr

10 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 11 A GROOM’S GUIDE TO

You want to look your best on the most important day of your life, right? Then consider these suave styles – the hottest trends in men’s formalwear for 2013–14. You can’t go wrong in any of them. Just be sure to run your choice by the bride first. style

Formal MIDNIGHT “MAXWELL” TUXEDO / G. ALEXANDER Proudly made in the USA, this tuxedo is midnight blue, with black satin shawl lapels and a one-button front. Its modern fit features higher armholes, a slightly shorter length and a tapered waist designed to present a more refined silhouette.

Relaxed TAN SAND “RIVIERA” SUIT / AFTER SIX This suit is a comfortable, versatile and classy formal option. Featuring a two-button, single- breasted front, self notch lapels, self besom pockets, and fashioned from textured tan polyester that imitates linen, this suit is perfect for your semi-formal or destination weddings.

12 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 Modern HEATHER GRAY “TWILIGHT” TUXEDO / JEAN YVES This heather gray tuxedo offers an updated slimmer fit, has a satin lapel and top collar with self trim, and is made of fine super 100’s material, which makes it lighter and more comfortable for weddings of any type.

Timeless BLACK “CEREMONIA” SUIT This black suit is the epitome of classic, and it features the updated, slimmer fit most men are looking for today. While it is not a skinny suit, the updated cut is designed to have less excess fabric and create a more fitted shape. It’s made of high-quality tropical worsted wool, and has a matching three- button vest, pre-tied bow tie and flat front trousers.

See more pictures and get more information about these suits and tuxedos at www.MyTuxedoCatalog.com, or visit www.MyTuxedoCatalog.com/Locate to find a retailer near you – like Paul Morrell Formalwear in Little Rock – that carries these looks and others. Turn to the inside back cover for more information.

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 13 U.S. Pizza co.

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www.uspizzaco.net 14 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 REHEARSAL DINNER ETIQUETTE Know the rules for hosting a rehearsal that goes off without a hitch

rooms (and groom’s family), the party, as well as the officiant and rehearsal dinner is traditionally his or her spouse. It’s nice to also Gyour responsibility. While there’s invite out-of-town guests and plenty of room in the modern-day extended family, if your budget wedding for bending or even breaking permits. rules, here’s how to pull your wedding weight while respecting traditional FORMAL OR CASUAL customs. — IT’S UP TO YOU. The rehearsal dinner is a chance SEND FORMAL INVITES. Trust us. for everyone to have a relaxed There’s always a question of “who’s invited get-together before the actual and who’s not?” among select extended wedding. It can be formal, family and out-of-town guests. And it casual, themed or otherwise, can get pretty awkward when you’re but it’s almost always scheduled confronted and have to tell someone right after the rehearsal. It’s best they’re not. This is why formal invitations to choose a location nearby the LIFE LOVE STORIES / CARPERPHOTOS.COM to the rehearsal dinner are standard (no church or ceremony venue. Facebook messages, E-vites or emails, please). GIVE A TOAST. It is courteous for the host of the rehearsal (either the father THANK-YOU GIFTS should be given Hint: Send the rehearsal dinner invites of the groom or the groom) to stand and to the wedding party during the rehearsal after the wedding invites; keep them thank guests for coming and the bride’s dinner. The intimate setting is perfect for separate if everyone is not invited to both. parents for hosting the wedding. This toast presenting your gifts to the groomsmen is to be given during dinner, not after. The and bridesmaids — preferably timed with depends on whether WHO’S INVITED groom should repeat this action at the your toast. it’s a local or destination wedding and reception, thanking the bride’s parents and financial and schedule considerations. Hint: Thank you gifts can also be guests for their love and support. Traditionally, invites are extended to exchanged beforehand at a shower or the couple’s parents, grandparents, the Hint: If members of your wedding party party, or prior to the ceremony in private, wedding party and their spouses or dates, would like to toast at the rehearsal dinner, but gifts should never be handed out at the any immediate family not in the wedding the best man should always go first. wedding reception.

5 TOAST DOs & DON’Ts

DO toast. Especially at the DO plan ahead, especially short and sweet to give other DO inject your personality rehearsal dinner, a toast from the if you know you’re going to be people plenty of time to toast (but don’t get too personal). groom and his family is expected nervous. A prepared speech will too. More than three minutes Engaging toasts often include toward the beginning or end of save time and make sure you say and you’re probably going stories reflecting a close the meal. In any case, something everything you meant to. It’s also overboard. friendship with the bride and as basic as thanking everyone for wise to plan out who toasts and groom or anecdotes from their coming and professing your love when beforehand to minimize DON’T overindulge. An love story. However, bringing up and excitement to the bride is confusion. overly inebriated toast is exes or sharing details from the sufficient. awkward for everybody. Go light bachelor party is ill-advised. DON’T be long-winded. on the libations to prevent any Hint: If wedding party gifts Rules about toasting during undue embarrassment, and make are being exchanged at the a rehearsal dinner are more sure you’re not celebrating on an rehearsal, giving the gifts flexible, but in general, keep it empty stomach. after your toast is proper.

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 15 TheREHEARSAL DINNER

GROOMS, PUT YOUR MIND AT EASE AND PLAN YOUR REHEARSAL AT ONE OF THESE OUTSTANDING OPTIONS. 1620 SAVOY our bride has intricately planned the big classic alternative to a banquet hall, 1620 day — from the color story and flowers SAVOY’S private dining rooms will leave a lasting down to the last grain of rice for the Aimpression. Your guests will enjoy the elegant Y art, the presentation of the food, and the privacy of getaway. Fortunately, your job planning the the environment. Our Private Dining Manager will rehearsal dinner is a lot easier, or at least it can take charge of every last detail to make your event be if you choose a venue experienced in hosting a seamless success. Most anything on our menu can be on your private dining menu. Premium bars, rehearsal dinners of all sizes and budgets — like award-winning wines and signature cocktails are also these seven. Whether yours is formal, casual or available. something in between, consider these venues 1620 Market St. / Little Rock / (501) 221-1620 for an unforgettable night. www.1620Savoy.com / Seating Capacity: 100 Available daily / On-site catering

THE CAPITAL HOTEL LULAV LOFT he Capital Hotel was redesigned for your wedding! njoy the Loft Lounge @ LULAV experience: a Intimate: five private dining rooms and a wine 3,200-square-foot private room with three seating Tcellar for gatherings of 10–300, each with a private Eareas, a flat-screen TV, pool table, dining areas, kitchen. Delicious: world-renowned Chef Joël Antunes full-service bar, on-hand staff and an optional DJ area and local culinary celeb Travis McConnell, Capital Bar & and dance floor. Perfect for bachelor/bachelorette Grill. Easy: It’s the perfect place to gather with no need parties, rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions. for transportation worries. Free valet parking for your Private custom menus or packages are available. event’s guests (charges for overnight hotel patrons). 220 W. Sixth St. / Little Rock / (501) 291-4222 / www.LulavEatery.com 111 W. Markham St. / Little Rock / (501) 374-7474 Seating Capacity: 10-250 / Days Available: Monday-Sunday www.CapitalHotel.com / On-site catering with private kitchens for On-site catering each private dining area

16 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 An arkansasBRIDE special promotion The Rehearsal Dinner

MIKE PIRNIQUE RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE U.S. PIZZA COMPANY ffering a prime steakhouse experience to excite arty in style at U.S. Pizza Company’s Bryant, the senses, our private dining rooms are the Fayetteville, Hillcrest, JFK Blvd., NLR or McCain Operfect location for your gatherings. With rooms PBlvd., NLR locations. We have plenty of space to to accommodate anything from cocktail parties to sit- host your rehearsal dinner or entertain your group of down dinners, our dedicated events team will serve up friends! With stone hearth oven pizzas, iconic salads the best in quality and service for you and your guests. and the coldest beer in town, U.S. Pizza will make sure your night is deliciously carefree. 3529 Pinnacle Hills Parkway / Rogers / (479) 633-8331 www.RuthChris.com / Seating Capacity: 100+ Email [email protected] for party rooms near you Available daily / On- and off-site catering available Bryant, Fayetteville, Little Rock, North Little Rock www.USPizzaCo.net / Seating Capacity: Varies by location Available daily / On-site catering

CHRISTOPHER NOLAN PHOTOGRAPHY VESUVIO BISTRO esuvio Bistro is an authentic Italian restaurant WAR MEMORIAL STADIUM / AT&T FIELD that offers flavorful Italian dining. Dine with family he luxurious Press Box at the Stadium makes Vand friends while enjoying the Italian traditions the perfect and most unique destination for of food, friendship and hospitality. In the spirit of Tyour rehearsal dinner or wedding reception. Italian culture, our dishes are created with the taste With several rooms to choose from and catering done of authentic Italian dining in mind. Dishes enjoyed for exclusively by Brenda Majors Catering, consider War generations in villages throughout Italy inspire our Memorial Stadium for your next big event and have menu, giving Vesuvio Bistro its authentic Italian fare. memories that will last a lifetime. We continue to innovate and create recipes beyond our traditional style by adding new menu items inspired by 1 Stadium Drive / Little Rock / (501) 663-6385 Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. www.WMStadium.com / Seating capacity: 300 1315 Breckenridge Drive / Little Rock / www.VesuvioBistro.com Available daily / On-site catering Seating Capacity: 160 / Available Monday-Sunday / On-site catering

An arkansasBRIDE special promotion arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 17 GREAT GROOMSMEN GIFT IDEAS from Arkansas

Across the state, you’ll fi nd fashionable, creative, practical — whatever you’re going for — thank-you 10 gifts for the men you chose to stand by your side.

CUSTOM DUCKS CALLS 1 2 Your groomsmen will love these customizable calls, and what better way to use them than to go out in the great Arkansas outdoors together? Rich-N-Tone Calls | Stuttgart LOCAL SPIRITS & BREWS Band-It Custom Calls | North Little Rock Who doesn’t like a good beer or occasionally need a hard drink? Treat your groomsmen with authentic Arkansas- made brews and delicious distillery spirits. Rock Town Distillery | Little Rock (We hear the Apple Pie Lightning is life changing.) Diamond Bear Brewing Company | Little Rock Saddlebock Brewery | Springdale

LYNDSEY SULLIVAN PHOTOGRAPHY

PREMIUM PENS 3 Your bottom-of-the-backpack pen days are done; give your groomsmen an engravable writing tool that will last them a lifetime whatever their business setting. Vanness Pen | Little Rock Shindig Paperie | Fayetteville

THE ART OF SHAVING 4 Premium shaving tools to baby their skin (bye- bye razor burn) and have them looking great – not to mention clean cut – come wedding day. Baumans Men’s Fine Clothing | Little Rock Glo Limited | Little Rock & Fayetteville

18 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 GREAT GROOMSMEN GIFT IDEAS

VK NAGRANI SOCKS Th e perfect remedy for cold feet – and your groomsmen will love them too. The Independent | Little Rock Walker Brothers | Fayetteville

6 CIGARS, BOXES, CUTTERS & PIPES A great gift idea you could present at the bachelor party or save for a celebratory smoke at the reception. The Pipe & Tobacco Shop | Little Rock

FLY FISHER’S GUIDE TO MISSOURI & ARKANSAS / KAMMOK ROO HAMMOCK You and your crew deserve some quality outdoor time together. Pack this guide to fl y fi shing and this lightweight hammock for an outdoor adventure. Fayettechill Clothing Company | Fayetteville 8 ROBERT TALBOTT TIES Because “a well-tied tie is the fi rst serious step in life.” –Oscar Wilde TEAM GEAR Baumans Men’s Fine Clothing | Little Rock 9 Give the gift of Southern Tide menswear (even for those in your wedding party that aren’t Razorback fans) for the years of tailgating together to come. Mr. Wicks | Little Rock

10 UNIQUE BOWTIES Wooden, crocheted, handprinted and Arkansas-made — fashion statements your groomsmen can rock on the wedding day and beyond. The Mustache Goods & Wears | Fayetteville & Bentonville

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 19 6 Bachelor Parties Planned for You! These manly agendas are sure to entertain your groomsmen (plus, these parties won’t get you in trouble with your brides)!

DAY TRIPS

A DAY AT THE SPORT SHOOTING ADVENTURE RACES Oaklawn Racing & Gaming, Remington Gun Club, Lonoke Hot Springs, January–April www.Remington.com www.Oaklawn.com Fun & games: Grab your guns and spend the afternoon at this Fun & games: Throw on nationally acclaimed shooting club, which features nine trap your sport coat and bet in fields and five skeet fields for public use. There are plenty of style from the comfort of the amenities, including free instruction and free use of shotguns for Jockey Club or a private box. members in your party. If you can’t get a table inside, ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & TOURISM Raise the stakes! Make a competition out of it — the worst shot of that’s OK. You can still enjoy the day buys dinner! all Oaklawn has to offer in the bleachers or the infield. After the races, try the electronic gaming. Grub: After a little friendly firing, head to Cabot’s Mean Pig for their world-famous, celebrity- and Travel Channel-endorsed Make it interesting! On a particular race, everybody bet on a barbecue. After all, what could be manlier than a barbecue joint different horse. The guy whose horse comes in last has to be the that serves 2,000 pounds of meat each week? designated driver for the rest of your outings. Drinks: You’re in a dry county, so you’ll have to pack a cooler or Grub: Corn beef sandwiches and ice-cold beer are a must for return to a wet county for the celebratory portion of your party. lunch, but after the dust has settled on the track, take the boys to dinner at nearby Back Porch Grill for a hand-cut steak and scotch Other ranges to consider: Blue Rock Sportsman’s Club (North on the rocks. Lakeside on the deck is ideal, weather permitting. Little Rock), Dr. James E. Moore Jr. Camp Robinson Firing Range (Mayflower), Paul H. “Rocky” Willmuth Sport Shooting Complex Drinks: The Big Chill, Smyly’s, Ohio Club, Rocky’s Corner, (Batesville) Bogart’s and even Sam’s Pizza Pub hideaway on Lake Hamilton serve entertainment and cocktails till late.

WEEKENDS AWAY FLOAT TRIP Big Piney Creek www.Arkansas.com/Outdoors/Canoeing-Rafting-Kayaking Fun & games: Put in near Treat at Helton’s Farm (land-owners charge a small fee). This 10- mile stretch is popular among white water seekers. You’ll tackle Class I-IV rapids, including “Roller Coaster,” “Surfing Hole” and “Cascades of Extinction.” Lodging: Call it a day downstream at Long Pool, a Forest Service campground complete with restrooms. Expect a fee for use of the campsite. Grub & drinks: Pack a cooler full of easy campfire meals and canoe snacks. (Please don’t litter in the river.) If you plan to fish on your voyage, cook the catch-of-the-day and toast the groom with beers around the fire. More white water: Buffalo National River, Illinois Bayou, Little Missouri River and Cadron Creek

20 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 The PiPe & Tobacco ShoP 2908 S. University Little Rock, 562-PIPE (74 73)

FLY-FISHING EXCURSION Upper White River www.Arkansas.com/Outdoors/Fishing Fun & games: Grab your fl y-fi shing rod and overnight bag for a weekend of trout fi shing. Th e Upper White River has its advantages, as you’re a short drive to more activities in Eureka Springs. Lodging: Spider Creek Resort’s assortment of comfortable cabins is perfect for your group of guys. Th ey’ve CIGARS! Perfect for your Bachelor Party! got great views and close proximity to the river, wrap-around decks, cable on big- Best Man & Groomsmen’s Gifts! screen TVs, king-sized beds, full kitchens and more. FLASKS, LIGHTERS, CIGAR CUTTERS & MORE! Grub & drinks: Need ingredients for your fi sh fry? Walk a mere 100 feet from Spider Creek to the Beaver Dam Store. Th ey sell groceries, beer and tackle, and can pair you with a fi shing guide. Other fl y-fi shing hotspots: Bull Shoals Tailwater (White River), Greers Ferry Tailwater (Little Red River), Spring River CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

ARRIVE IN STYLE Skip the carpool and start the party early by renting a limousine or party bus to haul your entire crew to the destination. Anywhere within Arkansas guarantees a reasonable drive time to activities, and if split among friends, the cost can be pretty reasonable.

arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 21 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

GOLF RETREAT Hot Springs Village www.HSVPOA.org Fun & games: Th ere are nine championship golf courses to choose from; four are among the top 10 in Arkansas. Aim to play three: 36 holes on Saturday and 18 on Sunday. (We suggest Granada.) Grub & drinks: Th e Village isn’t known for its bar scene, so kick back at Granada’s sports grill Tanners on the Green. Stay for dinner or rehash each hole over beers and bourbon on the patio. Lodging: Stay a short drive away in historic Hot Springs at the Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa. Th is will give you great nightlife options within walking distance (no DD needed) and access to spa Make Your services — perhaps an after-golf massage? GAMBLING GETAWAY HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO First House Fun & games: Its located in Tulsa, Okla., If the ponies aren’t your thing but the about an hour and a half from Fayetteville a HoMe crew has betting on the brain, sneak over and fewer than 4 from Little Rock. Th e the border into Oklahoma or Mississippi gaming is great, but the live performances Buying your first home as a to play at one of these joints: are better. Acts like ZZ Top, Ron White, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Sheryl Crow and Dierks CHEROKEE CASINOS newlywed is a big choice. Bentley perform at Th e Joint year-round. Fun & games: Try the popular Cherokee Let Metro Little Rock Guide give Casino just across the state line in West Grub & drinks: Kick back at Toby Keith’s Siloam Springs, or the ones in Roland and I Love this Bar & Grill or suit up for fi ne you the inside scoop on all that Sallisaw, Okla. near Fort Smith. dining at McGill’s on 19.

the Little Rock area has to offer. Up the ante! Plan a poker game for just TUNICA, MISS. your group back in the Chief Suite — Scope out each neighborhood, Fun & games: Th ere are nine lively winner takes all! get tips from your soon-to-be casinos just a 2.5-hour drive from Little Grub & drinks: At the West Siloam Rock, or 5 from Fayetteville. Springs casino, take the boys out for a neighbors and find information Grub & drinks: Th is Vegas-style setting on area eats, drinks, decorators juicy rib-eye at Flint Creek Steakhouse calls for an all-you-can-eat buff et dinner, before heading to Seven — there are more but Sunday morning, cure your hangovers and even doctors than 375 beers on this nightclub’s menu. at the famous Blue & White Restaurant. — we have you covered!

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22 GROOM’S GUIDE 2013-14 arkansas BRIDE | www.Arkansas BRIDE.com 23 a special supplement to

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