Father Time: Casio Edifice

This post is sponsored by Bubbleboxx on behalf of Casio. 

Father Time

Father time is a fictional reminder that time is the ultimate luxury.  On the third Sunday in June, many of you will be enjoying father time. Do yourself a favor: skip the tie or the worlds best dad mug this year.  Give him a gift that symbolizes that his presence is always missed and felt. A Casio Edifice watch is an honorable way to edify your favorite man.  

The Gift of Choice.

If time is a luxury, the vessel should match the aesthetic. This sophisticated timepiece - encased in stainless steel - will have many admiring the craftsmanship. With stylish carbon fiber dials, you will notice that functionality doesn't have to be sacrificed for luxury. When designing this watch, Casio had the adventurous man in mind; hence crafting a men's luxury watch that could withstand the everyman's lifestyle. With features like 100m water resistance coupled with a solar power battery, this watch works past your 9-5.   

 Like the hourglass that father time carries, this luxury watch will be a reminder of a great time spent while functioning as the tool to countdown the moments before a beloved memory.

Northwest New Day: Summer Fashion Styles For Guys

As summer is on the horizon. We partnered with Curtis from The Bright Report to give you some inspiration. Curtis styled three looks from J. Crews 2018 summer collection for New Day Northwest that will have you ready for any occasion you face this season. 

AMAS: Kenya Vol. 2

In this travel vlog, we get to explore the Kenyan countryside while learning fun facts from Maasai Development founder Jan Latsha. Along the way, you will also get to tour Maxwell Academy where we will meet some old friends from the past. Until next time. 

Special Thanks to Ollie Quinn.  - 10% off with Code OQrichard. 

Special Thanks to Sharply and Maasai Development Project. 

Dear Best Man.

The guy who had frosted tips, braces and lived in his momma's house years after college is getting married. Even if you don't believe in a higher power, at this moment, you know heaven and earth were moved. For your loyalty, through these rough years, you have been bestowed the honor of being his best man. So, now what?

Best Man Duities

Before the wedding.

Lucky for you, your "honey-do" list is not as long as your female counterpart. You are more than the bachelor party chairman, but for appropriate laughs, let us start there. The number one goal is that the groom has fun. No one wants Bender. The best way to plan this rite of a passage is to enlist the help of your fellow groomsmen. Also, ask the groom if there are any specific things he wants to do and if anything is off the table (i.e. hookers and blow). Once you have a baseline, make sure to inform the goom that his rights to add input have been revoked (trust us, its more fun this way). Please note, this is the central time for embarrassing moments to shine. Don't overdo it at the wedding or during the speeches.  Whatever you choose, make sure the night or weekend is structured enough so that your not just sitting around watching SportsCenter or so jam-packed you have to rush. Remember: no matter what you choose to do your bud should look back at this event fondly. 

Sure you know about the bachelor party, but you may also be asked to help in the selection of wedding suits and the groom's tuxedo. Some of our favorite places to look for inspiration are The Tie Bar and Generation tux. Even if your not a fashionisto, please be on notice: an excellent pocket square will elevate any suit, and your tie bar holds the tie in place once your jacket is taken off during the reception.

Other pre-wedding duties may include:

1. Helping with rehearsal dinner

2. Being the point of contact for all things groomsmen 

3. Helping the groom with honeymoon planning/reservations

4. Organize the couple's departure from the reception 

5. Selecting an appropriate - or inappropriate - gift for the groom from the groomsmen

Wedding Day

Today you are a “yes” man. It's ok to be stressed as long as it is on you and not the bride or groom. Do everything in your power to make the groom as relaxed as possible. From helping to usher Gram-ma-ma to the dimple in the groom's tie, you're the man with a plan. Honestly, this should go without saying, but make sure the groomsmen go easy on the sauce; this isn't a tailgate. During the ceremony, you will be handling the ring and walking the maid of honor up and down the aisle.   If you are confused about where to be or what to do, that is the time to coordinate your movements with the wedding planner.

Other Wedding tasks:

1. Sign the marriage license

2. Make sure groomsmen have the boutonnieres attached properly

3. Make sure groomsmen are where they need to be for pictures

The Best Man Speech

You did it! You - yes you - got him down the aisle! Now is your time to shine: the best man speech. This is not a time to wing it. If you are not a wordsmith, it's ok to research jokes and words of wisdom. Go over your speech with someone beforehand to ensure people will react the way you want them too. The perfectly crafted speech will create moments of laughter and love. Being bestowed with the honor of best man is no small matter, show your appreciation by giving him a speech worth remembering!

Our Speech Tips: 

1. Keep it 5-8 min long

2. Stay away from inside jokes

3. Acknowledge the groom and especially the brides family 

4. Memorize your speech

5. DON'T get the brides name wrong (Yikes!)

IF YOU NEED SOME INSPIRATION HERE IS MY HUMBLE SAMPLE: 

For those who don't know me I'm Richard aka the lost Toebe brother but more importantly, I have been Marty and Stephanie's third wheel for the last half a decade. 

First off I want to thank Stephanie's for saying yes because Rich and Gail were running out of ideas to get Marty to move out of the house...he is pushing 30 Y'all. 

Speaking of I want to acknowledge Gail and Rich and of course the parents of the bride Susan and Roger without them this beautiful day would not be possible. 

Marty, we have been friends a long time, but this isn’t about you and me it’s about you and Stephanie. I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge how beautiful Stephanie looks. Now, Stephanie, could you take your hand and put it on the table. Now Marty put your hand on top of hers. I want you to remember this moment because this will be the last time you ever have the upper hand in this relationship. 

Stephanie, I want you to take a deep breath and remember this moment... One day you're going to be tired from a long day at work and you're going to have to do laundry and your going to find one of Marty's draws and they are going to look like they were wiped on a coal minors brow... Remember this moment...Because love endures. 

Now, Marty, I want you to take a deep breath, look at Stephanie and tell her "I love you." Remember she will never tire hearing these words from you. As a married man there will come a point in time where you think "well I married you isn't that good enough" and when that happens remember this moment! 

As a married man of 0 years, I want to give you some advice since I’m so qualified. 

As you embark on this new journey, keep in mind to practice forgiveness. Even though dating is over love can still be a battlefield. 

I challenge you to love deeper. 

And lastly live with purpose individually and as a couple.

 As I raise my glass I just want to end my toast by saying 

In your new life: 

May your neighbors respect you. 

Trouble neglect you.

Angels protect you.

And heaven accept you. 

To Marty and steph!

With that, you are good to go. Now go find yourself a bridesmaid.  

Special thanks to Marty & Stephanie 

Photography by Emily Star Pool 

Henry's Tavern

Breaking bread has always been more than just eating. It implies that the event has fostered memories or has created an event that has brought unlikely parties together. If you're like us, you have experienced some of the best moments and conversations over a bite or beverage.  With that reverence in mind, Henry's Tavern has created a space that revolves around the sense of community.  

Dining out should always be about the experience. For many of us, that hinges on the customer service. The culture at Henry's will lift your spirits with their infectious energy and attentiveness. Though they are subtle, as to not take away from those you came to dine with. Speaking of dining you won't be disappointed. 

Henry's brings to life many of your favorites when it comes to American cuisine. When dining here you are encouraged to pair your meal with their large assortment of brews. Our favorite dishes off the menu are the waffle fry poutine,  Blue Moon crispy cod tacos, and the BBQ Bacon Burger. Needless to say Henry's has all the right ingredients from service to food for any occassion. 

Special thank you to Chef Sean and Katie. 

Photography: www.soulbreathingphotography.com IG; Soulbreathingphotography

Video: Keanu Kees

Shop the look: J. Crew Bowery, Henley: Sharply, Scarf: Burberry

Ollie Quinn

Suite: Indochino, Shoes: Creative Reaction, Shirt: J Crew. Sunglasses: Ollie Quinn Pocket Round: Ebay

Ollie Quinn

Thier Story:
If eyes are the windows to the soul, Ollie Quinn will make you take a second look.  Ollie Quinn is a UK based eyewear retailer that is rapidly expanding throughout North America.  A man about style draws many of its influence from British Fashion.  Their roots may not be native to North America but all of their boutiques are infused with the local heritage. Their boutiques are designed by in-house architects that work with local furniture suppliers and craftspeople.  This creates a welcoming home away from home atmosphere that reflects the community it serves.  

How to Choose Quinn Frames:
Price will not be a major factor at Ollie Quinn since all of their frames are the same price (currently 125 USD).  Prescription frames are available within 1-2 weeks instore or for delivery.  They also offer 30-minute eye exams from an in-house optometrist.  When styling frames, keep in mind face shape, skin tone, and personal style.

Our Style:
We decided to style the Clemes frames in the tortoiseshell color, dramatically named "Fireflies," since we needed a frame with rounded lenses to soften the sharp angles of our square face. The color and style are a nod to classic 50's style.  In addition, Fireflies is a versatile color for all occasions that can be paired with both vibrant or muted outfits--as you can see, we chose to pair it with a vibrant green Indochino suit.

What sets Ollie Quinn apart is their attention to both detail and design.  Honoring the unique history and flavor of the various neighborhoods in which their boutiques are located along with their modern approach to classic frame design, Ollie Quinn exquisitely balance both sophistication and expression.  Make sure to visit one of their many boutiques in the UK or Canada.  So far, Ollie Quinn is exclusively located in Seattle but further expansion into the US is in the works.

Shop the look: 

Suite: Indochino, Shoes: Creative Reaction, Shirt: J Crew. Sunglasses: Ollie Quinn, Pocket Round: Ebay, Scarf: Burberry White Linen Pocket Square: J. Crew

Photography courtesy of:  www.arturogarza.com IG: arturogarzaphotography

Uhphoriq Mens Event Hosted By AMAS

Co- Founders La La Steele & Clair Thornhill

Endurance Nweke ( @CuratorofCool) 

Uphoriq Mens Event

A Man About Style champions the spirits of those who defy the status quo and dare to be diverse. When Uphoria™ approached us to be a part of their story, we graciously accepted the opportunity as we value brands that unite like families instead of those “dog eat dog” monoliths that dominate much of the business culture. Uphoria has a diverse group of founders and product line that ranges from dapper accessories to edgy streetwear pieces.

We were asked to host their premier launch party at the Seattle Art Museum. This room was teeming with business entrepreneurs, fashion influencers, and a few press agencies. The infamous Dj Peg set the mood that night, with a mix of soul sample driven records. Our show began with the ear-piercing horns of Jay-Z’s “Show Me What You Got.” Richard Meharry walked down the steps of the art museum - bringing his usual high energy - while donning a chambray tux for the occasion. His co-host (Endurance Nweke, curator of cool) soon followed with Dave East’s “Maneuver” playing in the background. After this “Shout Out Ma”  was played for our kind sponsors: 360 vodka, Dry Sparkling, and SlusaTV.

This break-in program provided our VIP’s with catered hors d’oeuvres as each patron networked and was greeted individually by our uptempo hosts. After some time, Richard introduced the live performer of the night: James Lion. Mr. Lion captivated the crowd with his stage presence and heartfelt lyrics. He graciously set the stage for Toney Shellman, the guest of honor. Toney Shellman - for those who don’t know - is recognized by Black Enterprise, has been honored by recording artist Ne-Yo, and is the co-founder of several cultural brands. Before he conveyed his excitement and blessed our event, he brought out his special guest: Future of the Prince Ovos own DJ. Future did not perform but added to the excitement. 


 

Toney Shellman