My Favorite Christmas Decoration to Take Down
This story originally appeared on the Gents Cafe Newsletter. You can subscribe here. Generally speaking, I dread the...
David J. Reardon
A Vintage Timepiece and the Stories It Tells
When I first held it in my hand, I was shell-shocked. The 1972 Rolex Submariner was from my father-in-law-to-be, a gift he received nearly 40 years ago from graduating West Point that same year – and the insane thing is, he never wore it. Not because he deemed it too precious or reserved it only for special occasions, but – get this – because it was too…heavy.
The Joy of Cooking (for Friends & Family)
Butter. Garlic. Heavy Cream. Shallot. Basil. Thyme. These are words of affection, as far as I’m concerned. Because when these ingredients are properly prepared – chopped, sauteed, simmered, braised, garnished – they’re one of the greatest ways on this planet to say “I love you.”
A Nostalgic Look Back at the GQ I Grew Up With
After nearly a decade break, I recently resubscribed to GQ, hoping its fate would follow that of many in the fashion industry where seasons of constant misses lead to greatness on the other side. Unfortunately, the publication had only receded further from grace, a shell of its previous glory from the GQ I grew up with in the early 00s, the GQ that “raised” me into the three-piece-loving, bon vivant that I aspire to be today.
Hopes and Dreams for 2023
To me, the turning of the calendar each year is a time for hopes and dreams. I’m not a huge “resolutions” person, but I do believe in welcoming the new year manifesting positive thoughts for what this tabula rasa has in store.
The Art of Cocktail Hour
“This is the violet hour, the hour of hush and wonder, when affections glow and valor is reborn.” This beautiful line is the greatest in Bernard DeVoto’s The Hour, at once capturing the romance and the sublime of this everyday routine that is anything but mundane.
What Fatherhood Teaches You About Being a Gentleman
Three years ago today, I became a dad. It was one of the most profound, charged, and poignant experiences – a moment that immediately changed the priorities, trajectory and outlook of my life. Three years later, I’ve learned so much yet also realize that every day as a father will be filled with learning and with growth. And that’s the first parallel to being a gentleman – as with being a father, being a gentleman is about an understanding that one is never done learning, that there are always more opportunities for growth, and that the journey can be just as valuable as the destination.
How Many Ties Is Too Many?
It used to be a running joke: I owned 77 ties. According to my girlfriend (now wife), that was too many for a 27-year-old to own. Ever since then (nine years ago), I’ve stopped counting – mostly out of fear of coming clean with my wife – but I would bet my life that number has climbed. But really, how many ties is too many?
A Summer-Weight Blazer Cures All Woes
Four years ago, I was having a bad day. (While I won’t go into details, the fact that I can remember the circumstances many years later is an indication of just how bad.) I’m not sure how I decided this – maybe I had something to return? – but I found myself at Suitsupply.
Having a Florist on Speed Dial
In my fourth decade, I’ve finally realized one of the true hacks of manhood: having a florist on speed dial.