Photo: Christophe Photo
When it comes to buying presents, there are lot of different people that you must remember — the most important being your groom. Surprise him on the big day (or just before) by giving him a gift that was (literally) made for him. For our Chicago brides, here are seven of our favorite places in Chicago to find a custom-made present for your groom.
Sarah Drake
If he’s bound to shed a few tears once he spots you walking down the aisle, a personalized handkerchief from Sarah Drake gives him an elegant way to wipe them away. You can choose the thread color–perhaps your wedding colors?–and what you’d like embroidered. You can include anything from your and his initials to your wedding date. Read real brides reviews here!
Nordstrom
The personalization options at Nordstrom are endless. We especially love the Magnificent Mile department store’s gift options from Cathy Concepts, a brand that specializes in monogrammed goods. Choose a pocket watch with his first initial on it if he’s an old soul or travel accessories if he’s a world traveler. Monogrammed men’s dopp kits and luggage tags ensure your new husband is ready to hit your honeymoon in style.
Trunk Club
To truly set the bar high and wow him in advance of the big day, visit the custom experts at Trunk Club. You’ll need to plan a few months in advance, but a custom tux, suit, or shirt is one he’ll cherish on your wedding day and forever after that. The process of having the item made is a gift in and of itself: Visit the River North “clubhouse” to meet with a stylist who’ll set him up with a drink from the in-house bar, walk him through the fabric options, and take 26 of his measurements. About eight weeks later, he’ll return for his final fitting and be set for the big day. Read real brides reviews here!
See More: Thinking About Your Wedding Favors? Check Out These Chicago Favor Vendors!
EngraveTech
The engraving specialists at the Loop shop can customize just about anything you bring in, from a watch you’d like personalized with his name on back to a flask he can pull out on the way to the ceremony to calm any pre-wedding jitters.
Shinola
American made is the name of the game at Shinola’s Bucktown brick-and-mortar shop. The leather on their handsome wallets and passport covers comes from Chicago’s Horween tannery and will only get better with age as he carries it on endless dates and overseas adventures.
Tiffany & Co.
The little blue box is already the epitome of luxury, but receiving one is even more special when what’s inside has been tailored for you. Visit the Michigan Avenue location and pick out a pair of sophisticated cufflinks in sterling silver for your groom. Then, go the extra step and have Tiffany & Co. engrave them with his initials. They’ll become an instant keepsake that he just might pass onto your future son one day.
Barneys New York
If your hubs to be is known for his hip personal style, find a piece of jewelry to complement it. That way, you know he’ll wear it—and love it—for years to come. Barneys New York, located in the Gold Coast, carries the brand Giles and Brother, which is known for creating hammered bracelets that Justin Theroux might wear. Have one engraved with your nickname for him or your wedding date. You can choose up to eight letters and symbols.
Visit our Local Vendors page to find more places to buy gifts for your groom!
