I’m not much of a ‘bow tie’ guy. Never have been. The only bow tie I’ve ever owned is a black silk version for formal occasions – specifically when wearing a tuxedo. Last night’s Social Primer x Brooks Brothers party’s dress code was ‘bow tie’ – so I had a problem to solve.
Enter The Cordial Churchman. I remember when the hand-made seersucker bow tie made its appearance on Ask Andy a few years ago, and really liked their story. They are a home-based outfit out of beautiful Rock Hill, SC run by Ellie, a preacher’s wife and a mother of two. She makes each bow tie from hand from old ties or from specific fabric. The ties are extremely affordable too – especially considering the craftsmanship and care that goes into each one. I searched their website and found a couple that I liked – The James and Gray Chambray. Their website stated that two weeks are required for each order – and to contact them for ‘rush’ orders. I contacted Ellie and told her my time frame. She replied that both were in stock and available for immediate shipment. I ordered The James, and it arrived from the Palmetto State a couple days later – complete with a hand written note from Ellie:
I couldn’t be happier. The bow tie is substantial, and holds its knot very well. I like the subtle look of this one – it adds an accent to the outfit rather than a statement (exactly what I wanted).
Take a look at The Cordial Churchman, folks. I think they’re turning me into a bow tie convert.
Thanks for the beautiful post! So glad you loved the new bow tie. I thought I’d mention that I no longer sew every tie myself, I have trained a few ladies here in Rock Hill to help me out. They do a fantastic job! Just wanted to give credit where it is due.
I’m a huge fan of The Cordial Churchman. Ellie made the green and white seersucker bow tie I wore for my wedding so the brand will always have a special meaning to me and the handwritten notes are a subtle but much appreciated touch.
The bow ties look great, and I agree about the handwritten note. Received one recently with a product I’d ordered. In these days of faceless, soulless customer service (or lack thereof), it’s such a nice act of civility.
Great post on a great company. 3 of us last night in Cordial Churchman work says something!
What a great looking bowtie. I was on their website some time ago looking for JCW and I saw that they will even convert ties into bowties…very cool! Have a great weekend!
They do great stuff.
Mother of three now, by the way.
I’ve been strictly a bow tie wearer for the past 15, many of my latest from Ellie. Bows will change your life.