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Valentine's Day Buying Tips…from a Woman!

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:49:51 -0800

When my good friend Ben asked if I wouldn’t mind contributing an article to the Gents Place blog I was all for it – I love the concept of a boy’s club and was excited to be a part of it. Then he sent over the topic - Valentine’s Day Buying Tips… from a Woman! I swallowed hard.

Now don’t get me wrong, I am a woman, and I do love gifts, but in my opinion Valentine’s Day, and gifts in general, is one of the hardest things to get right. I suppose that’s why Ben asked for a woman’s advice.

Before you begin your hunt for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift you need to identify the kind of woman for whom you are buying. Is she more emotional or more practical? Is she cautious or more of a risk-taker? Creative or traditional? Once you’ve figured out the type of woman you are buying for you can better find a gift that she will truly love.

For the traditional, emotional woman – For this type of woman you can’t go wrong with a box of chocolates and a dozen red roses. If the relationship is further along consider buying her a nice piece of jewelry. The most traditional of women will prefer a diamond or pearls.

For the creative, risk-taker – If you want to play it safe, but are looking for a more creative gift, try a bouquet of exotic flowers. If you want to go a little more sentimental and serious consider buying her jewelry with a precious stone. Or, for a little bit of fun, a nice piece of lingerie is generally well-received by risk-taking women. The most creative of gifts I’ve come across is an iPod touch with a preloaded playlist of songs picked by you, especially for her.

For the practical woman – There are two types of practical woman: those who want practical gifts and those who want stuff they would never buy for themselves, since they are too practical. If you are dating a practical woman, I’d say your best bet is to buy a gift from each side of the spectrum. Take notice if she has mentioned something she needs lately, and buy that. Also buy a practical, but non-essential item, such as chocolates (which you can eat) or a watch (jewelry you can use). And ideal present for a practical woman is perfume, since it is light and feminine, yet useful.

In all instances, I would urge you to avoid stuffed animals, however if your significant other has a teddy bear collection going, adding another one to the mix is a sweet gesture.

Being a practical woman myself, I would be completely content if on Valentine’s Day my husband did something for me that he knows I hate doing, or fixed up something around the house that he knows has been nagging me. Of course, if at the end of the night he gave me a piece of jewelry I never would have let him buy had he asked me beforehand, or a fragrance he wants me to wear on special occasions because he likes it so much, that would be A-OK with me!

Gentlemen's Toolkit for the Winter Season

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:14:12 -0800

Winter is finally here! That means colder weather, shorter days, and drier skin. To get you ready for the winter month’s we’ve put together the essential Gentlemen’s Toolkit for the Winter Season:

Moisturizer – A good moisturizer should be used on a daily basis, year-round, but if you don’t use one in the winter months you are sure to feel the effects quite rapidly.
Lip balm - No gentlemen should have dry cracking skin, especially not leading up to Valentine’s Day. Dr.Harris & Co. lip balm combines cocoa butter and menthol to soothe dry, chapped lips.
Gloves – .Danier leather gloves are the perfect combination of class and elegance to add to your winter work and weekend wear. For a day on the slopes try MEC Black Diamond Mercury Mitts.
Scarves – You’ll want to have a couple scarves in your winter wear repertoire: at least one for wearing to the office with your trench coat, one for a casual night out on the town, and one for hitting the slopes. For the office try a Gucci cashmere scarf over a wool jacket, tied in a simple knot around your neck. For a weekend out, go with something like a Banana Republic merino wool scarf or a trendy Kashmere scarf, wrapped twice and looped through once at your throat. Heading out to the slopes a thick chunky scarf from Gap is the perfect item to keep your neck warm.
Winter boots – Our favorite brands for gentlemen are:
- Jack Threads – Affordable, yet distinguished J. Shoes on sale.
- Red Wing – For the tough and rugged gentleman.
- Quoddy – Sheepskin-lined literal Grizzly boots – need I say more?
- Bed Stu – Trendy, a touch pretentious, but definitely unique.
- Grenson – Sleek, trendy. Less than practical, and UK based, but damn attractive.

The Most Expensive and Rarest Scotches in the World

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 13:36:08 -0800

Who doesn’t love a good glass of Scotch? Scotch whisky is, as the name suggests, a Scottish drink, made from malted grain and aged in oak casks. Scotches must have an alcoholic strength of less than 94.8% by volume. Since scotch from multiple casks may be used in a single bottle, the age statement on the bottle is determined by the youngest stock used in its production. The most expensive and rarest scotches in the world generally come from the regions of Scotland traditionally known as the Highlands, which includes Speyside. Here are just a few of the best scotches in the world:

Kinclaith 1963 – Starting off the list we have this rare Kinclaith bottled by Gordon & Macphail in 1996. Although technically on from the Lowlands, this 32 year old scotch makes our list due to the fact that just 32 bottles were yielded from its refill sherry cask. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/P-8745.aspx)
Glenfiddich 40 year old – Don’t let a newer Glenfiddich fool you – older expressions, such as this 40 year old scotch whiskey from Speyside are full of complexity. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/P-2112.aspx)
Royal Brakla 1924 – a 60 year old Highland scotch that has never officially been released for general sale. Does it get rarer than that? (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/P-4386.aspx)
Benromach 1949 – This 55 year old bottle hails from Speyside and has a fantastic concentration of flavors – only 83 bottles were yielded from its cask. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/P-1259.aspx)

Aberlour 1967 – You can buy a bottle of this 40 year old single malt complete with four crystal glasses, a water jug, a bottle of Speyside water and a sturdy case. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/selection/aberlour1967/)
Dalmore – Candela – This blend has been created from a variety of vintage stocks, with the youngest from 1951, and the oldest hailing back to 1968. Only 77 bottles of been released. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/selection/the_dalmore_candela_50_yo_whisky.aspx)
Dalmore – Trinitas. Only three bottles of this bad boy have ever been made by Dalmore, which combined multiple stocks, some of which had been aging for more than 140 years. It is the first scotch in history to sell for six figures.
Macallan Lalique – The King of Whiskies, this 55 year old bottle is from the second edition of Macallan’s Lalique series, although the most expensive whiskey in the world was a 64 year old Lalique, the oldest every made by the Macallan distillery. It sold for $460,000 in a New York auction.. (http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/P-7624.aspx) second link - http://most-expensive.net/scotch

Of course, if you want to go back to the finest and rarest scotches in the world, you have to visit this site (http://finestandrarest.com/whisky.html). Contents go back to Army and Navy whisky stores from the late 1800s!

Top 10 Men’s Sunglasses

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:58:02 -0800

Top 10 Men’s Sunglasses

Sunglasses are one of the most important accessories a guy can have. The type of sunglasses you wear says a lot about your personality. When picking out a designer pair, make sure you go with something that is functional, but also representative of who you are. Here are our picks for the Top 10 Men’s Sunglasses:

Ray-Ban Caravans. These guys first came out in 1957 as a small, squarish alternative to the classic aviators. $119
Gucci 1933/S Aviators. In contrast to the caravans, these sunglasses are a supersized take on the standard aviator frame. $295
Burberry 4083. Of all the two-tone options on the market, this one is the best with just the right amount of contrast between the black upper and the clear bottom. $200
Persol’s Vintage Collection 2978. The matte finish on this frame sets it apart from the high shine of most frames. $310
Ray-Ban Aviator Silver Mirror. The standard aviator glasses, but with the mirrored look. If you’re looking for glasses with a lot of personality, these are the way to go. $125
Prada Sport 50LS Gloss Black. These glasses are the perfect pair to take with you on a relaxed Caribbean getaway. The laid-back, sophisticated style is perfect for lazing out on the beach. $205
Tom Ford James Bond 007 Gunmetals. Another classic look (the same kind worn in the latest James Bond movie), these sunglasses are true to their name, with a dramatic, old-school secret agent look and feel. $342
Oakley Men’s Half Jacket XLJ Iridium. No list would be complete without a classic pair of Oakley’s. The styling, combine with the XYZ Optics and the interchangeable lenses makes this pair the perfect Oakley glasses. $110
Maui Jim Banyans. Maui Jim is to the beach what Oakley is to sport sunglasses. These stylish glasses are another pair you’ll want to make sure and bring along on your next vacation. $180
Ray-Ban RB2140 Original Wayfarer Sunglasses. Perhaps the biggest comeback since the Aviators first made their way back, is that of the classic Ray-Ban look. The classic look, combined with modern colors and tints makes this the perfect everyday pair of sunglasses. $200

Do Experiences Trump Possessions?

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:30:21 -0800

Studies Show Experiences Trump Possessions

They say “You can’t buy happiness,” and while that may be true, the cold hard facts reveal that what you’re buying significantly affects your level of satisfaction afterwards. Buying possessions, such as a flashy new car or that iPad you’ve been eyeing, start with an initial ‘happiness high’ that quickly fades away. Buying experiences, on the other hand, results in a high level of satisfaction that just keeps on growing.

The effect of purchasing possessions vs. experiences was the center of a recent study done at Cornell University. Professor of psychology, Thomas Gilovich headed up the study with Travis J. Carter, Ph.D and the results were quite conclusive. The study, published in Journal of Personality and Social Psychology showed that people are less satisfied with material purchases because they are more likely to second guess what they could have bought.

Gilovich explains, “Your experiences are inherently less comparative, they're less subject to and less undermined by invidious social comparisons. There's a lot of work in the area of well-being and happiness showing that we adapt to most things, therefore, things like a new material purchase make us happy initially, but very quickly we adapt to it, and it doesn't bring us all that much joy. You could argue that adaptation is sort of an enemy of happiness. Other kinds of expenditures, such as experiential purchases, don't seem as subject to adaptation."

"Imagine you buy a flat panel TV. You come to my house, and I have a bigger, clearer picture than yours. You're bummed out," Gilovich continues. "But suppose you go on a vacation to the Caribbean. You find out I've done the same, and mine sounds better than yours. It might bother you a little bit, but not nearly to the same degree because you have your memories; it's your idiosyncratic connection to the Caribbean that makes it your vacation. That makes it less comparable to mine, hence your enjoyment isn't undermined as much."

The study concludes, “"Our results suggest that if people get more enduring happiness from their experiences than their possessions, at a policy level, we might want to make available the resources that enable people to have experiences.”

The Gents Place is dedicated to doing just that. We provide an experience to our clients, and not just in terms of getting a hair cut or a straight razor shave. At the Gents Place we pride ourselves in using products that are an experience in themselves, resulting in the highest level of satisfaction. Don’t doubt the power of a luxury experience combined with top of the line products – come to the Gents Place to get the best experience with the best products today.

Some of the Gents Place’s favorite experience-enhancing products are:

Marvis Mint toothpaste (Sold at the The Gents Place here)
Whiskey Stones
Assorted Shaving Products

Dress Right This Holiday Season

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 15:22:35 -0800

‘Tis the season for holiday parties! Whether you’re headed to an office party, a family gathering, or a holiday ball, it’s important you dress right for the occasion. So what is the proper dress code etiquette for men? Make sure you read this complete guide on what to wear for specific events so you don’t show up over-, or under-, dressed.

Black Tie

Black tie for men means you are dressed in a full tuxedo and all the traditional accompaniments: a black dinner jacket and matching trousers, an optional black formal waistcoat or black cummerbund, a white formal shirt, a black bow tie or a black long time, black dress socks and black formal shoes.

White Tie

White tie is also known as full dress, and is considered more formal than a black tie event. It also adheres to a stricter style code, although both dresses are defined by the same basic elements. White tie calls for:

Jacket – Black single-breasted tail coat. The lapels should be silk and peaked.

Trousers – Black single satin, silk or ribbon seam on the outside leg. Pants should be pleated and worn at the waist.

Shirt and Tie – A white piqué (Marcella) worn with detachable wing collar, cufflinks and studs, worn with a thin white bow tie. Shirtsleeves should be at least ¾# of cuff.

Waistcoat – This should be white and single or double breasted, and never extend below the bottom of the tailcoat.

Footwear – Black socks worn with black patent lace up shoes.

Accessories – A white handkerchief, braces and formal white gloves are optional.

Formal

Formal dress code usually means the same as Black Tie, however in trendier cities, such as New York or Las Angeles it can be interpreted to mean a black shirt, no tie, worn with a tuxedo.

Semi-Formal

Semi-formal means you don’t have to rush out and get a tux – suits are acceptable. Evening formal events dictate dark suits be worn.

Cocktail Attire

Cocktail Attire generally means dark suits, although in some cases a shirt and slacks sans jacket is acceptable. At an event that calls for cocktail attire, you are free to be a bit more expressive, or trendy, in your color combinations. Stick with a standard suit, but feel free to make a statement with a bolder shirt or tie choice.

Business Attire

Business attire follows the same general trend as cocktail: a dark, solid-colored suit, a long sleeve shirt, a conservative tie, dark socks and professional shoes. Think of what you would wear to your first day on the job at an executive firm.

Business Casual

Business casual, or dressy casual, means a dressed-up version of a casual look. Trousers and a sport coat is a winning combo for a business casual event. Khaki, gabardine or cotton pants are acceptable, as are long sleeve button down shirts, polo shirts, or knit shirts with a collar. In colder weather you might wear a sweater. Ties are optional.

No matter the occasion you want to make sure that your clothes are clean and freshly pressed. To compliment your well-picked outfit make sure your hair is well groomed, your nails are neat and clean, and you are using the right amount of fragrance. Not sure which cologne to use? Check out this post. (Link to cologne post)

Eye Gel is For Girls! … Or Is It?

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 07:50:27 -0800

I am quite certain that the most commonly ignored facet of grooming for men is the eyes. You know what I’m talking about – the delicate skin right below your eyes that often times looks tired, saggy, puffy, dark or riddled with fine lines. Depending on your lifestyle, sometimes it probably looks pretty decent, while other times it might make you look like the living dead. The causes are many: stress, lack of sleep, not enough water, too much sodium in your diet, partying too hard, as well as genetic factors and aging. Unlike women, we don’t (in general) use make-up to hide dark circles. However, there is much you can do to prevent wrinkles, decrease puffiness and leave your eyes looking rejuvenated.

Eye gels and creams specifically formulated for men’s skin can do much good in keeping the area around your eye’s looking young. First, they moisturize which helps to minimize fine lines and prevent new ones from forming. Second, they can visibly reduce dark circles under your eyes within an hour of application. Third, eye gels and creams reduce puffiness, so you can look refreshed after a late night out.

Start using eye gel regularly early enough and you’ll extend the youthful look of your eyes as you age. Once you begin using eye gel regularly you will start to see a difference in general appearance almost immediately and wrinkles will begin to fade after a few weeks.

Brands like Clarins, Nivea, Lab Series for Men, Jack Black and Anthony Logistics all carry under eye gels and creams that are specifically made for men. You can find most of these products online at Sephora.com. Make sure and look for an eye gel containing Haloxyl(TM), Natural vitamin E, Active Manuka Honey and Babassu, four natural components that are safe and effective in taking good care of your eyes.

Tip: To work together with your eye gel to keep your eyes young avoid foods high in salt, get plenty of sleep, don’t smoke, go easy on the alcohol, drink lots of water and ALWAYS use a good sunscreen.

The Proper Way to Apply Men’s Fragrance

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 07:52:39 -0800

Now that you’ve become completely acquainted with the different types of men’s fragrances (see our post on the importance of quality fragrances) and are armed with your favorite pure parfum, it’s time to learn the proper way to apply it.

As a general rule of thumb – keep it subtle. You want to smell nice and fresh, but not leave a lingering fragrance trail wherever you go. To apply just the right amount, place one finger over the opening of the bottle. Tip the bottle over and then use your finer to apply the fragrance. Aim to keep it to only one or two applications with your finger. Don’t try any type of “splashing” like you may have seen on an after-shave commercial. It just doesn’t work.

Tip: If you have trouble regulating how much fragrance you use, get a spray bottle and keep it below two sprays per application.

Make sure never to rub the fragrance into your skin; simply press it on. Rubbing the fragrance can bruise the different notes in the scent by heating it up and speeding up or spoiling the dry down. The friction caused by rubbing ruins the natural progression of the scent, and then what’s the point in applying any fragrance at all?

Now that we know how to apply men’s fragrance, let’s discuss the where. The main application points are known as hotspots and they are behind your ears, on the glandular points of your neck, and your inner wrists. Since they produce heat they allow the fragrance to react with your body. The smell on these points, however, will not last as long as other spots on the body, since air is constantly hitting the scent at the hotspots. To make fragrances last longer, try applying a touch to the chest, back or thighs before you dress. This will cause the scent to linger longer. Keep it to just a couple touches of fragrance spread out across the body, which will allow the scent to emanate slowly and evenly throughout the day.

Tip: Apply the scent directly to your skin, not onto your clothes. The fragrance reacts with your body, and by spraying it onto your clothes you bypass that aspect of the scent entirely.

What is the Difference between Single Malt Scotch and Blended Scotch?

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 13:22:27 -0800

We’ve all wondered it before, but likely been too embarrassed or too drunk to ask: what the heck is the difference between a single malt scotch and a blended scotch?

The basic difference is in production. Single malt scotches are strictly made from malted barley, whereas blended scotch whiskies come from a variety of grains such as wheat, corn and barley. Single malt whiskies are also sourced from a single producer at a single site, whereas blended scotch is made by mixing different distillations from multiple producers.

Single malts may be a blend of malts from various ages, but they all come from the same distiller. They variety of ages can be used to heighten the character and sophistication of the blend, but at the same time the character of the product must be retained and batches must be kept as consistent as possible. The age that appears on the bottle is the youngest age included in that product, although the single malt may include other whiskies from the same distiller that have been aged for longer. (If you want a malt whisky that comes from a single distillation from a single producer, you’re looking for a single single malt. And if you want a single distillation from a single producer from a single barrel you’ll need a single singe single malt, aka direct bottling.)

Blended scotches are a more cost effective product, since grain whisky is cheaper to produce. Whisky made from unmalted cereal such as wheat or maize tends to have a harsher flavor than whisky made from malted grains. The challenge in produce a consistent blended scotch arises when a base component of the blended whisky becomes unavailable, either because a distillery has closed or no longer wishes to offer their product to blenders.

Tip: Experts say adding a couple of drops of water to your scotch will help bring out the flavor, or take a sip of coffee or a bite of dark chocolate to better appreciate the subtle tones of the scotch.

Why I switched from a cartridge to a safety razor…forever!

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 14:03:08 -0700

Safety razors are making a stealthy comeback, and not without good reason. While multi-blade razors have been the rage for the last several decades, safety razors were the first razor to be mass-produced and spread around the world. Their initial popularity was due to the fact that they provided a solution to the problems caused by using a straight, flat knife blade to shave. Their recent surge in popularity, however, is attributed to the benefits of shaving with a safety razor.

First, many men want the closest shave possible. While it is true that disposable and cartridge razors use multiple blades, many men feel that the shave isn’t actually any closer. The curved blade of the safety razor allows men the ability to have a close shave, while protecting their skin. In addition, many with sensitive skin find that the angling of multiple razor blades causes razor burn and ingrown hairs.

Another benefit to using safety razors instead of multi-blade razors is the cost. While the initial investment of a quality safety shaving kit is considerably greater than that of a cartridge blade, in the long run the investment is worth it. An $80 safety shaving kit can last a lifetime, and you can either sharpen or replace your blades. (High end safety razors can cost up to $200, while lower end models can be purchased for around $30.) Disposable razors can be quite pricey, and refill blades of cartridge packs can cost upwards of $20 for a pack of three blades. Safety razor blades can last as long as 3 months, and be sharpened or replaced. Think of the cost incurred in purchasing disposable blade after disposable blade for your cartridge razor as compared to the investment of a safety razor blade that not only outlasts, but also outperforms cartridge razors.

Contrary to the popular conception that multiple-blade razors are better for your skin, they can actually damage it. TV advertisements often show the skin being pushed down by the plastic protector, allowing each blade a shot at the hair. In all actuality, the multiple blades are scratching the surface of the skin repeatedly, which can cause irritation and lead to ingrown hairs. A single or double, safety razor blade allows for a close shave without damage the upper layers of the skin.

Safety razors are also a lot sturdier than cartridge and disposable options. They have a strong metal handle, and most kits come with a box of blades. Make sure that when using a safety razor you always use a high quality shaving cream. If you want to heighten the experience of shaving and perhaps even enjoy the chore, take your time. Buy a shaving mug, shaving soap and a soft-bristled brush and make it part of your morning ritual.

Safety razors may seem to be the simplest option when it comes to shaving – a single blade running straight across the razor with a metal handle, but they offer a fresh, clean shave unparalleled by cartridge razors.

Top 10 Cigars of 2011

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:21:59 -0700

10. Carlos Torano Exodus 1959 Silver – It’s easy to see why the Silver line is one of Torano’s best selling lines. It has a pleasant pre-light aroma, an enticing brownish lead wrapper that is oily and mostly smooth, and an excellent medium to full body taste. The burn and draw are practically flawless, as was the silverish ash. At $6.50 per cigar, they can be a go-to for most smokers.

9. Casa Magna Colorado Gran Toro – Called “colorado” meaning colored in Spanish, this Nicaraguan cigar has a dark, slightly reddish hue, and a full bold flavor. The best parts about the Gran Toro are the sweet-raisin and cocoa aroma and the deep, wet-earth taste. Plus, at $5.25 a pop, you can’t find a better price.

8. Don Pepin Series JJ – This cigar has limited availability since it is made in Don Pepin’s small Miami factory, but if you can get your hands on one make sure and do so. It’s a full bodied cigar, with a full flavored spicy aroma that is balanced out by notes of leather. The cigar as some heat, but it isn’t overpowering. Since they are hard to come by one of these will cost you $10.

7. Indian Tabac Super Fuerte Gordo Maduro – A huge cigar with a ring size of 58, the Indian Taban Super Fuerte Gordo Maduro feature a maduro wrapper that doesn’t overpower and a quality medium to full bodied smoke. The flavors are rich and round. An elegant cigar, the smoke is nutty and spicy, with a creamy rich flavor that has just a hint of chocolate. You can try one for just $5.

6. 601 Blue Box-Pressed Maduro – Naturally sweet, this cigar uses Cuban-seed Nicaraguan long fillers and a Nicaraguan maduro wrapper, which adds to the sweetness. The box-pressed shape results in a nice even burn, and the smoke is thick, creamy and spicy-sweet. Big strong flavors, very full bodied, and each puff is full of spice and pepper. A little on the pricier side ($10 per) it might be cheaper to buy a box or get it as part of a sampler.

5. 5 Vegas Cask-Strength II – Opening strong with a flavorful bouquet packed with hearty spices, the 5 Vegas Cask-Strength II nicely paves the way for hearty oaks, cedar, toast and earth flavors. Full-bodied, with big bold flavors, this cigar packs quite a punch for only costing $6.75 a piece.

4. Fonseca Habana Seleccion Cosacos – This rare commemorative cigar is wrapped in a Habana Criollo wrapper that has been aged at least 5 years. It is only available in a dozen or so retailers worldwide, but if you manage to get your hands on one, you’re in for a treat. Nice spicy flavors and good smoke body from the first puff, this cigar is packed with heat and lingers long after every puff. Robust and with a strong visit this $5 cigar is worth looking around for.

3. Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic – The Don Pepin Garcia Cuban classic is full bodied and full flavored, making it reminiscent of a fine Cuban cigar. The aroma is dry and spicy, with a clear finish. The strongest hints are of earth, toasted cedar and black pepper. This cigar is perfect for someone looking for a powerful smoke. Originating in Nicaraugua, Don Pepin Garcia Cuban Classic’s cost about $8 each.

2. 5 Vegas Triple-A – The first thing you’re likely to notice about the 5 Vegas Triple-A is how heavy it is: that is because it is so densely packed with premium Nicaragua ligero leaves. It comes with a powerful burst of spice and pepper flavors, a beautiful dark brown wrapper, a nice tight ash and an even burn. There are hints of oak and leather, and espresso and cocoa flavors. This Nicaraguan Cigar will run you about $7.

1. Rocky Patel Puro Cubano – The bold, well-aged blend comes from the full-flavored tobaccos of Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. The spicy, Habano wrapper adds quite a bit of complexity to an already flavorful combination of earth and sweet flavors intermingled with light hints of pepper. Medium bodied, you’ll also notice a leather and espresso finish on the blend. This cigar hails from the Dominican Republic and costs about $7.

The Importance of Quality Men's Fragrances

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 09:39:04 -0700

Ever inched closer to a stranger because she smells good? Here’s a little insider tip – women are the same way. Your scent has a lot to do with whether or not she will find you attractive, feel at ease, or become aroused. Each of us comes complete with a set of pheromones, chemical compounds that affect how attractive we are to the opposite sex. Using a fragrance, however, can serve as a little boost and catch her attention. Studies also show that wearing your favorite scent makes you feel less tense, angry or confused, making you more fun to be around.

So, with so many types of fragrances on the market, how can you be sure to pick one that will drive the ladies wild? This list of fragrances will help you better understand and decide which type is best for you. It runs from lowest concentration of oils and aromatic compounds to the highest.

Eau de Cologne aka Cologne – Colognes are a result of diluting down stronger, more expensive pure fragrances such as those found in pure parfums, with citrus and herb notes. Basically, cologne was the option created to appease a crowd who could not afford the nicer, longer lasting pure parfums available on the market. Colognes consist of about 5 percent of aromatic compounds, much less than the 15 to 40 percent of pure parfums. Bottles are generally larger and less expensive than purer perfumes, but the scent doesn’t last nearly as long as pure parfums, meaning you’ll wind up paying for it in the end.

Eau de Toillete – Another version of perfume created for those who wanted to enjoy the scents without having to pay the price for pure parfums, the eau de toillete contains a concentration of about 5 to 15 percent of aromatic compounds. Again, they are less expensive than pure fragrances, but don’t last as long as their parfum counterparts.

Eau de Parfum – The eau de parfum was born with the intention of creating a stronger scent than eau de toillete and cologne fragrances, but without less of a high price-tag than the pure parfum versions. Eau de Parfums typically contain 10 to 20 percent of aromatic compounds, making for a long lasting scent that is very perceptible.

Extrait de Parfum aka Pure Parfum – This type of fragrance, which when literally translated to English means “perfume extract,” contains the highest concentration of scent, with about 15 to 40 percent of aromatic compounds. This makes the price of pure parfum much higher than other perfumes, and they generally come in the smallest bottle. Due to the high concentration of aromatics in pure parfums, they are the longest lasting scents, meaning that one tiny bottle goes a lot further than cheaper options.

So, the intensity and longevity of a perfume is based on its concentration, intensity and longevity of aromatic compounds: the higher the percentage, the greater the intensity and longevity of the scent. Traditionally most men buy eau de colognes or eau de toilletes simply because they are the most widely available. However, by buying a more concentrated eau de parfum, or better yet, a pure parfum, you are investing in a much higher quality product. This quality means your scent will last longer, making it worth the extra money. Plus, pure parfums are so much more refined than colognes.

BONUS TIP: To make sure you get the most out of your fragrance, store it in a cool, dry place, away from heat and light.

Philanthropy + Brands + Gifting Come Together at the Second Annual Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 08:15:57 -0700

On Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14, 2011 Dallas Cowboys Legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith and his wife, Pat, hosted the 2nd Annual Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational at The Westin Stonebriar Resort in Frisco and TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney, respectively, benefiting Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities (PESC). Suite 22, designed by HAS Events, featured products and services gifted to celebrity friends and VIP supporters of Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities.

Celebrity guests from Clay Walker, Eddie Levert, Donna Richardson-Joyner and more enjoyed Herradura Tequila, Jack Daniels and other Brown-Forman brand cocktails; water provided by Fiji Water and the sounds of celebrity DJ Brandon Olds of BOLD Entertainment while in Suite 22.

“The Suite 22 Luxury Experience Lounge created by Hamilton A Sneed of HAS Events was a unique and interactive experience for our guests. From the Chocolate Secrets Ice Cream Bar to the MUNITIO Listening Lounge each sponsor made our celebrity friends and VIP guests feel extra special. It is an element of our annual charity event we look forward to each year.” said Pat Smith, President of Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities.

Each celebrity walked away with a black reisenthel mini maxi travel bag filled with unique products and services from local and national product brands. Suite 22 highlights of the evening included:

The iPic movie theater experience showcasing a passion for movies and providing the ultimate escape with a VIP experience certificate for 2 to enjoy dinner and a movie.
Texas Sports Hyperbarics provided each celebrity with a certificate for a complimentary Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy session, which speeds the recovery from Sports Injuries, concussions and stroke, pre & post surgery and anti-aging and more.
The MUNITIO™ Listening Lounge featured the SITi (Standard Issue Titanium) Nine Millimeter Earphones™. These hi-performance earphones with bold style, craftsman quality and luxury appeal were a hit with celebrities.
PERMISSION™ Skincare for Men gifted shave product from their exclusive line of men’s grooming products
The Gent’s Place Men’s Fine Grooming, known for their custom approach to men’s grooming gifted their 7 Course Haircut service which includes a personal consultation, cut & style; rejuvenating paraffin hand-dip and hand massage, energizing shampoo and conditioning, invigorating scalp massage, face refresher, steamed towel followed by a relaxing neck massage.
Chocolate Secrets & Wine Gardens new indulgent Gourmet Ice Cream Bar featuring Chocolate Secrets Organic Ice Creams, Sorbets and Sherbets topped with imported wines, champagne and liqueurs.
Additional gift bag items provided courtesy of Marena Shapewear, M-Clip®, Fiji Water, Palmer’s, FullTiltPoker.Net and Graycliff Cigars.

Celebrities in attendance on Friday evening included Emmitt Smith, Daryl Johnston, Winfred Tubbs, Rayfield Wright, Clay Walker, Eddie Levert, Donna Richardson-Joyner, Sean Salisbury, Jay Humphrey, John Randle, Pierre Larouche, Rickey Jackson, Floyd Little, Jacque Jones, Mike Eruzione, Kenny Lofton, Spud Webb, Tony Casillas, Deion Sanders, Jason Garrett, Michael Finley, Thurman Thomas, Tina Craig, Michael Wilson, Andre Gurode and Leonard Humphries.

On Saturday, golf tournament players also received a gift bag with exclusive gifts provided by Ocean Prime located in Uptown Dallas; the Grand Spa, a favorite of Pat Smith; Floss Dental; Palmer’s; certificates from M-Clip; snacks from Hail Merry Snacks; Cupcakes from Crumbs by Gabrielle and the reisenthel mini maxi rucksack as the official bag.

“This is our second year hosting Suite 22 at the Emmitt Smith Celebrity Invitational. We are proud to help Pat & Emmitt Smith Charities raise additional money through gifting. We join them in creating educational opportunities and unique experiences for at-risk children.” said Hamilton A Sneed, principal of HAS Events.

3 Great Excuses to Wear Cufflinks

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 07:34:43 -0700

Some think that cufflinks are old-fashioned and out of style, but at The Gents Place we think these accessories don’t get enough love. There are at least 3 great excuses to wear a nice pair of cufflinks more often:

A suit looks better with cufflinks. The addition of cufflinks to your dress shirt and suit adds a certain level of class and sophistication. A snazzy pair of cufflinks can be the extra touch that pulls your look together and makes you stand out.
Let’s give ‘em something to talk about. An intricate, interesting or funny pair of cufflinks can also be a great talking point or ice-breaker, especially if you have a story behind them. (Even if you just make up a story about them—we won’t tell.)
Cufflinks are stylish and fun. Traditionally, cufflinks are designated for business or formal occasions, but with the right cufflinks and the right style, you can make them work for more casual ensembles as well. A pair of cufflinks can be just the right touch of sharp sophistication for a night on the town.

Are you a fan of cufflinks? The Gents Place is soon to be carrying a whole selection of cufflinks, and some of them are pretty nifty. Get a sneak peek at our Facebook page.

The Gents Place Review That Warmed Our Hearts

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:50:29 -0700

When we received this email from a customer, I think we all got a really good feeling. This is what The Gents Place experience is really all about.

I hope you have time to read this whole email.

I received a text for a free cut at your shop. I scheduled an appointment with Amy for Saturday. Your shop was very busy and thank goodness Amy called to tell me the shop was a little behind so I could reschedule.

Years ago I worked in the technology field. I enjoyed nice things in life and my companies spoiled me. If your shop was around back then, I would have been a regular.

A while back my daughter was born. There were complications and my wife struggled badly. Well after the birth, the insurance company informed me that no premiums were paid for 8 months before even though the company had been taking it out of my check. The company locked the doors and filed for bankruptcy while I was on leave and one month before the bills came in. We were wiped completely out. Everything! Ever since then I have found ways to save money. One of the first things I did was start giving myself buzz cuts.

My wife was ok with it and I couldn't think of anything else.

You may be asking why I'm telling you this. I just wanted you to know how big an impact yesterday's experience was for me.

I could not believe how impressed I was just walking in the lobby. Amy was very welcoming and attentive. She smiled the whole time I was there. I had a drink and relaxed. I was very excited, but kind of felt like I didn't really belong in such a nice place.

I was greated by Kristin who was very nice. She refreshed my drink and took me to the back. The whole layout was unique and very impressive.

I think Kristin was somewhat disappointed because all I was getting was a simple buzz cut. She made some great suggestions about growing my hair out, but I know I am just going to be buzzing my hair again. Kristin gave me my cut in just a few minutes. Despite my very short cut, Kristin still gave me a wash and a hot towel.

Kristin showed me around. You have a great shop. Everyone was nice and I had great experience.

It has been a very very long time since I have had an upscale feeling. I haven't felt so attended to in years. I just felt like I got a small touch of what my succes used to feel like. I had a ten dollar bill in my wallet that I left for Kristin. I sat in the lobby for another fifteen minutes just enjoying my surroundings. Then I left. As I was driving home, I thought I should send you an email saying "Thank You" but I really wanted you know how thankful I really was.

So, thank you for the free haircut and sharing your shop with me.

If I could pay you back I would. Perhaps I could possibly help with blogging about your shop on various sites, write for your website, or write a recommendation you could use. I will definitely be telling people about your shop. I will send everyone I can your way.

This email and recommendation really made an impact on us, too! Thank you for sharing. We're glad we were able to serve you, and hope to see you again sometime at The Gents Place.

The Evolution of the Safety Razor

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 11:30:58 -0700

As we’ve said before, the safety razor or double-edge razor is one of the best shaving tools you can buy to get a close, smooth shave. But the safety razor isn’t a tremendously new piece of technology.

The Beginning of the Modern Safety Razor

Before safety razors, straight razors were the common shaving tool. Of course, straight razors don’t have any safeguard against deep cuts. The idea of creating a safer razor, with blade guards, was piloted by Jean-Jaques Perret in 1770, but it wasn’t until 1888 that the development of the true, modern safety razor began. That year, the first American patent for a safety razor with a protective wire guard was given to the Kampfe brothers.

Soon enough, other manufacturers, like Gillette, were also developing and patenting designs for safety razors, and this new way of shaving was born.

All About the Blades

Safety razor blades, in their earliest incarnation, were not disposable and had to be sharpened frequently. But, the addition of disposable razor blades by King Gillette at the turn of the century changed the game and made the safety razor even easier to use. Gillette, of course, built an entire shaving empire on the disposability of blades with his loss-leader strategy (give away the razor, and profit on the replacement blades).

The company also made the savvy deal with the U.S. Army that resulted in Gillette safety razors becoming part of the standard kit for enlisted men sent to Europe during World War I. By the end of the war, over 3.5 million Gillette safety razors had been given to soldiers, helping convert a hefty amount of men to the Gillette brand.

Gillette’s blades were made of carbon steel through the 1960s—the carbon steel blades rusted quickly and needed frequent replacement. In 1965, however, the introduction and adoption of stainless steel blades in foreign markets required Gillette to follow suit. Today, most razor blades are stainless steel.

Safety Razor Head and Handle Improvements

Early safety razor heads were the classic “sandwich” type; they must be unscrewed from the handle to insert a new blade. The process of changing blades was made much easier by the introduction of the Twist-to-Open (TTO) design. With a TTO razor, the butterfly doors of the razor’s head are easily opened and closed with a quick twist of the mechanism at the bottom of the handle.

In 1958, Gillette also introduced an adjustable safety razor, with a new innovation: the ability to adjust the exposure of the blade to get a closer shave. Gillette’s adjustable safety razor included a ring beneath the razor’s head with labeled settings 1-9—setting 1 being the least aggressive shave, and setting 9 being the most aggressive.

Safety Razors Today

The basic design and function of the safety razor has changed little since the mid-20th century, but after the introduction of cartridge and disposable razors in the 1970s, the safety razor fell out of favor with most men. However, more recently, the safety razor is seeing a revival among men who are looking for not only a better shave, but also a more economic way to shave. With a safety razor, the primary investment is the razor itself; replacement blades are inexpensive. It’s also better for the environment, since the steel blades can be recycled.

Are you a fan of the safety razor for your own daily shave? If not, perhaps you should give it a try! The Gents Place has a great selection of safety razors and accessories. Visit us in Frisco or Leawood.

Ben Davis is CEO of GentsDeals.com, a men’s private buying club, and Founder of The Gents Place, a men’s grooming and lifestyle club located in Frisco, TX and now open in Leawood, KS.

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Men’s Style Guide: Choosing the Right Shirt

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:08:43 -0800

Today we have a guest post from Henri of MU Shirts, an independent UK-based online retailer of shirts for men. MU Shirts offers a variety of shirts and menswear accessories to give customers a full selection of quality men's attire.

Many men like to play it safe and go for plain white or plain blue shirts for most occasions. Remember Harrison Ford and his eternal plain blue shirts on consecutive premieres? At least we hope there was more than one. Follow this short guide to venture away from the safe path.

Pink Shirts

Yes, why not? A pink shirt can suit a guy very well and he doesn’t have to feel emasculated. If you are wearing a suit, a pinstripe black or grey suit with a pink plain shirt will work wonders on you. Of course, when we are talking about pink, we are talking about a muted tone. Try to avoid bright pink, at least for work.

Choosing the Event

Really, this part should come first, but we wanted to wake you up with the suggestion of pink. Choosing the right men’s shirt means first deciding when you'll be wearing it. There are two main types of events: work and going out. (We’ll ignore formal events, weddings and the like as they often require special shirts with accessories like bow ties and wing-tip collars.) For work, a more conservative approach can be wise but for a night on the town, you can kick it up a notch.

Patterns and Colours

So for work, playing it safe with plain white or plain blue is not a bad thing. But if you can get away with it, why not consider shirts with patterns? Something like checked shirts perhaps? Stripes are the most popular type of pattern and the variety that comes with them makes you go dizzy. Do you want wide or narrow stripes? Or both? Dual colours, two-tone colour stripes or more? A simple blue and white striped shirt is great for work as is a white shirt with narrow dark stripes. The rule is, the more discreet the stripes, the more formal it looks.

This leads us to dressing up for going out. This is where you can let your hair down and dress up more vividly while still looking terrifically smart. Going out to a plush restaurant? How about a black shirt? Need a tie to go with it? How about a plain red one for maximum contrast? Vivid purple colours look great too. This is where striped shirts are their best, too. With their great variety of colours, you are sure to find one that suits the occasion, appeals to you, and hopefully appeals to your date too.

So you can dress up conservatively for work and more boldly in the evening while still breaking out of the mould and adding some variety and colours to your outfit. Don’t forget that you have to work on your figure too. Here are some resources if you want to keep fit and build muscle mass.

And of course, nothing compliments a sharp shirt quite like a smooth shave and a neat haircut. A visit to The Gents Place will help you ensure that you look as good as your wardrobe.

For Valentine's Day, Give the Gift of a Great Experience

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 09:44:44 -0800

What are you getting your sweetheart this Valentine’s day? The classic box of chocolates? Jewelry or a watch? Cologne or perfume?

If any of those are on your gift list this year, then you might be giving the wrong kind of gifts.

Studies show that the experiences we buy make us happier than the new objects we purchase. While a new car eventually becomes your every day car, a great experience can give you a sense of life and vitality both during the actual event as well as afterward through the memories.

So put that theory into place when you’re thinking of what to do for Valentine’s day. Here are 3 “experiential” gifts for him that will make him feel great and give him something to remember.

A romantic night away: There’s nothing like leaving the kids with a babysitter and being whisked off for a romantic night away at a swank hotel or cozy bed and breakfast. Even if you don’t have kids, it’s nice to take a break from the humdrum routine of life as usual.
A relaxing men’s spa day: Treat him to a day of being treated like a king at The Gents Place. A gift card to The Gents Place will let him choose from a whole range of enjoyable experiences, from a massage to a classic straight razor shave, along with our great atmosphere and customary wine and drink selection.
Tickets to his favorite concert or sporting event: If his favorite team is playing soon, or his favorite band is coming to town, then tickets to an event will be sure to give him a night to remember.

So if you’re going to buy something for him this Valentine’s day, buy him a great experience. Men forget gifts, but they remember experiences.

Ben Davis is CEO of GentsDeals.com, a men’s private buying club, and Founder of The Gents Place, a men’s grooming and lifestyle club located in Frisco, TX and now open in Leawood, KS.

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Cigar Smoking Tips and Etiquette

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 15:04:56 -0800

While the men’s spa experience is all about the finer things—razor shaves, beard trims, men’s haircuts, a good drink and a nice cigar—cigar smoking can be a touchy subject for some.

Some people object to the smell, some people object to the smoke, and others just plain object.

Proper etiquette is paramount when smoking cigars, especially around non-smokers—but also around your fellow cigar connoisseurs.

Where to Smoke
It should go without saying that you shouldn’t smoke anywhere it won’t be appreciated. This generally means confining your cigar smoking to your home and cigar lounges.
When to Smoke
According to Zino Davidoff, the famed Swiss tobacconist who wrote the original cigar etiquette essay in 1967, one shouldn’t chain-smoke cigars. Rather, wait 15 minutes, at the very least, between cigars.
When to Ash
Whether you ash early and often, or prefer to allow ash to buildup on the tip before ashing, you should always, always ash into an ashtray. Potted plants are for plants, not cigar ash.

Some of the finer points of cigar smoking etiquette include:

Don’t stamp out a cigar; allow it to die out on its own in the ashtray.
Don’t tell others how to smoke, light, or cut their cigars; cigar smoking is highly personal.
Don’t smoke too quickly; a puff every minute or so is about right.
Don’t offend others with the smell of smoke on your clothes or your breath.
Have fun; cigar smoking is a great hobby!

At The Gents Place, we offer a wide range of cigars from across the globe, as well as a selection of complimentary beer, wine, and whisky to enjoy with your razor shave or men’s haircut. As the premiere men’s spa in Frisco, we are not only committed to helping you look and feel your best, but also to relaxing you in style.

Ben Davis is CEO of GentsDeals.com, a men’s private buying club, and Founder of The Gents Place, a men’s grooming and lifestyle club located in Frisco, TX.

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The Ten Minute Traditional Wet Shave

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:21:37 -0800

Shaving is one of the great traditions of being a man. Our grandfathers taught our fathers, who taught us, and we’ll pass it on to our sons. The men’s grooming techniques passed down to us have been used for a hundred years, but with new shaving products and razor technology, not all men actually use the old shaving tradition, even though a traditional shave with a safety razor is the best you can get.

In this video, learn one method for using a double edge razor and badger brush for a traditional wet shave in just 10 minutes.

Check out the video and maintain your face in between visits to The Gents Place.

Ben Davis is CEO of GentsDeals.com, a men’s private buying club, and Founder of The Gents Place, a men’s grooming and lifestyle club located in Frisco, TX.

Connect with us and stay up to date with The Gents Place and GentsDeals.com! The Gents Place: Facebook | Twitter • GentsDeals.com: Facebook | Twitter