Re: Black Tie Optional?
Black Tie optional is a tough call. I think if your purpose is to let people know that it is a formal affair, then it certainly gets the job done. My problem with black tie optional is that it just leaves so much gray area. A lot of guys won't wear tuxes because (a) it isn't expected and (b) they may feel uncomfortable if they are one of the few actually wearing tuxes.
I understand the reluctance to make your wedding Black Tie. I think in that case you really need to know your guest list and know that 80%+ plus will be totally fine with it. I feel that Black Tie Preferred is a really nice choice because it lets guys know that the event calls for a tux, but it also give others an out to wear a dark suit if they really can't get a tux to wear.
As a side note, don't let guys rent tuxes. You can get great deals on a purchased tux. When they have sales, you can walk out of Jos A Bank with a perfectly serviceable tux for around $300. You might be able to go even lower online or at outlets or thrift stores. Considering that you can wear it for a good ten years if you get a proper and traditional tux, a few hundred dollars isn't a bad investment, especially when considering that a tux rental will many times cost you over $100!
I understand the reluctance to make your wedding Black Tie. I think in that case you really need to know your guest list and know that 80%+ plus will be totally fine with it. I feel that Black Tie Preferred is a really nice choice because it lets guys know that the event calls for a tux, but it also give others an out to wear a dark suit if they really can't get a tux to wear.
As a side note, don't let guys rent tuxes. You can get great deals on a purchased tux. When they have sales, you can walk out of Jos A Bank with a perfectly serviceable tux for around $300. You might be able to go even lower online or at outlets or thrift stores. Considering that you can wear it for a good ten years if you get a proper and traditional tux, a few hundred dollars isn't a bad investment, especially when considering that a tux rental will many times cost you over $100!
