A Gentleman’s Guide to Fall

With the transition to a new season, there is always a bit of extra excitement in the air. Fall’s crisp air and vibrant burst of autumn hues unleash a marked shift in our creative minds as well as in our daily lives. Today, we depart from the event decor world to explore ‘a gentleman’s guide to fall’ through the lens of our Kehoe Designs‘ tastemakers. A special treat to the fellas, we focus on a mélange of autumnal trends, activities, and ‘must-haves’ that inspire us, both in our artistry as event designers and in our individual style.

Host with Personal Style | Modern Masculinity

As the season of dinner parties approaches, we share a special table design by Tom Kehoe drenched in signature style. The Thanksgiving tabletop, inspired by his love for wild horses, exemplifies how a masculine design can still exude absolute class and sophistication. In this luxe collection, he emphasizes the interplay of heirloom with modern treasures, creating an eclectic tabletop boasting sumptuous autumnal floral and striking pheasant plumes. Intriguing objects, rich mocha hides, and stately jet black chairs drive a modern, masculine mood fueled by this tastemakers’ fascination and personal zeal for life.

Dress to Impress | In Teal Fashion

“The deep bluish-green shade of Teasing Teal is a color that grows stronger every year in both women and men’s fashions” says Creative Director, Bridget Frizzie. However, we are particularly in love with this fall color as a gentleman’s alternative to the all too common autumn shades of maroon and navy blue. “What drives this color is its ability to go high or low when paired with other colors,” Bridget explains. For edge, infuse your teal threads with the striking contrast of yellow ochre or keep it classic by pairing it with rich, natural mocha browns. “It’s sophisticated, balanced with such versatile properties that it is and will be an IT color for years to come,” concludes Bridget.

Indulge in Fall Foods | Craft Beers & Riverside Roast

What could be more “fall” than sipping on a delicious craft brew or having a big, juicy roast carved tableside? Gentlemen, don’t miss famed Chef Tony Mantuano’s two hot new culinary concepts, Bar Toma and River Roast, for an approachable, deliciously rustic foodie experience. At Bar Toma, dine on regional italian fare of housemade pastas and pizzas from a classic wood-burning oven while quenching your thirst with craft beer from an extensive tap selection. At River Roast, impress your clients with dramatic city and water views while dining on a satisfying and soul warming, contemporary American menu of roasted meat, fish and veggies carved right at your table. Or, stop by on the weekend for their recently launched ‘Riverside Brunch,’ featuring items such as rabbit and waffles, shrimp and grits, red wine-poached eggs, lobster terrine, and something called hangover soup made with pork shoulder, dried chilies, and hominy.

Embrace the Season | Our Fall Favorites

What is on our ever-so-galant, VP of Sales & Marketing’s fall wish list?  

“I am just mad for the stylish design of the new Tom Ford high top sneakers. They could not get into my shoe closet soon enough!” says David Brandt.

What is on tech guru, Scott Smith’s mind for fall 2014 product launches?  

“The snazzy new Sony a7S video camera is on the top of my list. It’s a game changer in the camera world with its compact design, 4K sensor and ISO sensitivity (409,600) allowing you to capture astonishing detail and color even in the dead of night.”

What will our ultra dapper, Event Designer, Phil Cooper be doing this fall?

“ There are lots of great fall activities in Chicago. But one of my favorites fall pastimes is spending a beautiful autumn day outside the city for some good ol’ fashion apple picking at Crain Orchards in my home state of Michigan.”

What will our ruggedly handsome, Marketing Strategist, Ryan Sjostrom be toting this fall? 

“A great leather bag, like a well-tailored suit or a go-to cocktail, is something that every self-respecting man should have. Brothers Leather bags are made with the highest quality leather and come in a few really cool styles. For my photography and film friends, also check out the Muse.”

What is on our multi-marathon runner, Set-up & Strike Supervisor’s fall fitness wish list?

“Athos gear is revolutionary in changing how we are able to train the human body. Having a complete view of the body in action – muscle activity, effort, heart rate target zones – you get instantaneous insight which then allows you to perfectly sync workouts to your desired goals,” says Cristian Calderon.

In Conclusion

Behind the creative force of the Kehoe Designs team are the experiences, fashion trends, new technologies, and activities that inspire us. Whether it is what’s new and hot on the scene or rediscovering eras and traditions of old, it is through the richness of this exploration – of living – that personal style is born. As event designers, it is also this passion for life that we believe sets us apart, both as creatives and in the artistry of our craft.