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Article: Wedding Suit Timeline: When to Order Custom Suits for Your Party

Wedding Suit Timeline: When to Order Custom Suits for Your Party

The date is set. The venue is booked. You’re getting married at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in six months.

But when your best man texts asking what kind of suit you want to wear, you freeze. Too early and styles might change. Too late and you're paying rush fees—or worse, settling for off-the-rack.

After working with grooms for plenty of Kansas City weddings (from intimate Loose Park ceremonies to grand Union Station galas), we've perfected the timeline that ensures every groomsman looks impeccable—without the panic.

The Master Timeline: Your 6-Month Countdown

6 Months Before: The Foundation Phase

What to Do:

  • Finalize wedding party size

  • Choose color palette and style direction

Why This Timing: Made-to-measure suits require 4-6 weeks for production. Starting at 6 months gives you buffer time for any adjustments. Plus, your suit sets the standard for the entire party.

From our team in Kansas City: "Spring weddings at Kauffman Gardens mean lighter fabrics. Fall ceremonies at The Abbott call for richer textures. Order early enough to get seasonal fabrics."

4 Months Before: Party Coordination

The Critical Window:

  • All groomsmen must order

  • Collect everyone's measurements

  • Finalize fabric and styling details

Virtual Fitting Game-Changer: This is where out-of-town groomsmen become a non-issue. Schedule a group virtual fitting session—everyone gets measured from their location in one coordinated effort.

Real Wedding Story: "We had groomsmen in Chicago, Dallas, and Denver. The virtual fitting meant nobody flew in just for measurements. Saved everyone $500+ in travel costs." - Jake M., married at The Madrid Theatre

3 Months Before: Production & Peace of Mind

What's Happening:

  • Suits are in production

  • You're not thinking about suits (enjoying engagement)

  • Final details confirmed

Pro Tip: Order all groomsmen shirts and accessories now. Matching ties? Coordinating pocket squares? Get them with the suits for perfect color matching.

6 Weeks Before: First Fittings Arrive

The Excitement Phase:

  • Suits arrive for try-on

  • Minor adjustments identified

  • Refitting if needed

Why This Buffer Matters: If someone's weight changed or a measurement was off, you have time for adjustments without rush fees.

2 Weeks Before: Final Preparations

Last Details:

  • All suits finalized and pressed

  • Accessories distributed

  • Emergency backup plan confirmed

Kansas City Vendor Coordination: Share suit details with your photographer. The team at Cassandra Castaneda Photography tells us knowing fabric colors helps them plan lighting.

Wedding Week: Relax

Everything is ready. No last-minute runs to Men's Wearhouse. No mismatched colors. No panicking groomsmen.

The Nightmare Timeline (What Not to Do)

The Rush Job (6 Weeks Before):

  • Limited fabric options

  • Rush fees ($200+ per suit)

  • No time for adjustments

  • Stressed wedding party

  • Potential mismatched colors

The Last-Minute Scramble (2 Weeks):

  • Off-the-rack only option

  • Poor fit guaranteed

  • Premium alterations ($300+)

  • Different fabric lots = different colors

  • Groomsmen resentment

Special Considerations for Kansas City Weddings

Seasonal Fabric Planning:

Summer Weddings (May-September):

  • Lightweight wools (tropical weight)

  • Wool-silk blends for breathability

  • Consider: Outdoor venues like Powell Gardens need lighter fabrics

Fall/Winter Weddings (October-April):

  • Mid-weight wools

  • Subtle textures welcomed

  • Perfect for: Indoor venues like The Grand Hall

Popular Kansas City Wedding Venues & Suit Considerations:

The Kauffman Center:

  • Formal black-tie appropriate

  • Midnight blue photographs beautifully

  • Consider peak lapels for elegance

18th & Vine Historic District:

  • Jazz-era inspired details work

  • Rich fabrics complement vintage vibe

  • Double-breasted makes a statement

Loose Park Rose Garden:

  • Lighter colors acceptable

  • Breathable fabrics essential

  • Morning coat option for ultra-formal

The Made-to-Measure Revolution for Wedding Parties

"Game-changer" gets thrown around too much, but for wedding parties, a made-to-measure suit truly is.

The Investment Breakdown

Traditional Rental Route:

  • Tux rental: $200-300 per person

  • Worn once

  • Generic fit

  • No keeping the suit

  • Total for 6: $1,200-1,800 (gone after one day)

Custom Suit Investment:

  • Made-to-measure suit: $895-1,200

  • Worn for years after

  • Perfect fit guaranteed

  • Versatile for future events

  • Total value: Suits they'll actually wear again

The Groomsmen Communication Template

Save time with this proven message:

"Gentlemen, can't wait for the big day. To be sure you look good enough to get a date with one of the bridesmaids (haha) we're getting custom suits from Shepherd’s. Here's what you need to know:

  • Cost: $[XXX] (you keep the suit)

  • Options: Virtual fitting or visit Kansas City showroom

  • Timeline: Order by [DATE], receive by [DATE]

  • What's included: Suit, shirt, tie [customize]

  • Book your fitting here: [LINK]"

Your Wedding Suit Action Plan

Today: If your wedding is 6+ months away, schedule your fitting now.

This Week: Send groomsmen the timeline and booking link.

This Month: Finalize party size and color scheme.

Remember: The couples who enjoy their wedding planning most are those who handle tasks early. It's one major decision crossed off the list, leaving you free to focus on what matters—celebrating your love story.

Ready to start your wedding suit journey?

Book your consultation now.

Since 2023, Shepherds has been the trusted choice for Kansas City weddings. From intimate ceremonies to grand celebrations, we ensure every member of your party looks their absolute best.

 

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