#wedding koozies

[palmtreesx3]

Deeper for You

Summary: (5.1 k) It's your annual beach trip with the crew from Hawkins, something you've all been doing together your whole adult life after life forced everyone to part ways. You're all close, but this year, an accidental encounter in the outdoor shower makes you get a little closer with one person in particular.

This is self indulgence at its finest. Fresh off my last week at the beach this summer, I needed a little Beach Steve in my life to tide me over.

Steve x Reader, NSFW 18+ Accidental exposure, friends to lovers, breast play, female oral, fingering, dirty talk encouraged, a little orgasm denial, maybe a spank and unprotected intercourse in the shower.

Crystal water. Crystal skies. Beach chairs circled around umbrellas and coolers. Crisp beers slipped in aging koozies and passed around like old times. You and your friends have been doing this for years. Ever since goals and lives and even some wives have taken the group here and there, Nancy started organizing this annual beach trip for the group from Hawkins. Years and miles have nothing on deep seeded trauma, she said once, in a too cheerful voice despite it's truth.

The heat of the sand between your toes and the smell of suntan lotion have become a comfort to you, just knowing you're back there with your closest friends. As you all creep closer to thirty than you'd like, this week never fails to make you feel nostalgic, youthful and forget all of your problems because it never feels like an ounce of time has passed with any of these people.

This year Nancy had to upgrade the rental - more rooms for yet another married couple in the mix, Eddie adding a wife - a little too sweet but just enough sass for him - into the fold. It was your first time meeting her, really meeting her, because no bride has the time for new friendship on their wedding weekend, and you've had such a nice week spending time with her. Chairs in the sand by the waterline together with a book most afternoons, leaving the raucous energy that comes after some morning beers as background noise to your fantasies.

"What are you two ladies reading over here anyway" Steve pokes at your shoulder on his way down to the water to cool off.

"They're fantasy novels, Steve. Naughty books, if you must know." You tease back, Eddies wife blushing beside you at your brazen honestly.

"Naughty books? Like love stories where they kiss and share a bed?"

"No Steve, like '... And then she felt the tips of his finger circle her clit before toying with her folds and the wetness pooling between her thighs. Edging her, pulling her closer but never giving her cunt what she really wants'" you read in an exaggerated and breathy voice direct from your page, picking up right where you left off. "That, Steve, is Naughty Books. "

"Shit. Okay. Well I'll leave you two to it, then. What the fuck." and he trots off into the waves. Sunkissed skin a perfect contrast to the white, foaming waves he's now floating in.

"So, that… you guys have a thing before or something?" Eddie's wife asks softly. So sweet, you can't even be mad at her for it.

"Steve?" You laugh, "No-no no. Just go way back "

"Oh I'm so sorry" she squeaks out, "I just thought… I mean you guys. Nevermind."

"Don't worry about it. We're all a little too close for comfort sometimes. I get it. We just have always gave each other shit as long as I've known him, that's all."

Later that night, the whole group gathers in the back of the house around a huge built in fire pit, all taking turns sharing, giving updates about life and work and families.

Late nights have been happening all week around this pit, but tonight is cool, and the Sangria Robin and Max mixed up is keeping you chilled.

"Hey, honey. You finally quit or do you want to join us over here?" Steve calls over to you, beckoning to the group of smokers over on the bench seat to the left of the fire.

"Every time I try… someone like you offers me a smoke and here I am again." You shrug as you lean over to snag the pack of cigarettes from Steve's outstretched hand before taking a seat. You slide out a slim cigarette and pull the lighter from it's spot in the back, lighting up and passing it back, kicking your feet out on the coffee table in front.

"Someone like Steve, what's that supposed to mean? You hurling insults again?" Johnathan teases.

"No, no. Byers, shut the fuck up. Lemme enjoy this sweet nicotine with my friends in peace, okay?" You roll your eyes, not actually knowing what you meant either, before shooting a look at Max sitting with the group. "Since when did you sit on the smokers bench? Huh?"

"Don't start with me mom. You've tried to quit four times a year for the past 10 years, so I don't even wanna hear it from you." The redhead sasses back.

Such a beautiful, self assured young women she's grown into, despite having such poor eyesight from…everything that happened…you have always had a soft spot for Max, and she for you. The glasses she wears are thick, despite years of corrective surgeries, but they don't take an ounce away from how lovely she's grown to be.

"Yeah yeah, just shut up and enjoy it. I bet Lucas hates it. Doesn't he? Goodie two shoes." You quip back and Max giggles in agreement, both of you taking a long drag as a follow up.

"You two man-eaters are trouble." Steve jabs.

"Excuse me, man-eaters? The one who has been dating the same guy since middle school and me, who goes on what, maybe 4 dates all year? Yeah total man-eaters, Steve."

After finishing your smokes, you all rejoin the group, playing dollar games of cards and dice, laughing the night away at bad luck and bad jokes. El has been banished to watching over participating and when Eddie's wife asks why, the mutters and mumbling of a wide variety of excuses poured out.

"It's uh - against her religion!" straight from Dustin's mouth won out, mostly because it was the loudest. So now you're all pretending El is Muslim, and that's definitely not going to last the rest of the week.

It's nearing two am as you pad up the stairs, pockets 10 dollars deeper, sand still clinging to your feet just barely and Steve's button up on your shoulders from when he passed it to you to quell your chill. Just like every other night of the trip, you sleep like a baby, tucked in a soft mattress with softer sheets and the blanket of a decent buzz still coursing through your bloodstream.

The next day is the last on the shore and after a late start and breakfast cooked up by Nancy and Johnathan to sop up the hangovers the day goes on much like the rest before it. Relaxing in beach chairs and blankets, music softly humming from a boom box in the shade of the umbrella, balls being tossed in a friendly game of touch football in the loose sand by the dunes.

The tide was rough today and swept you and Eddie's girl away on your chairs once before you slipped your books back in your beach bag and decided if you can't beat it, join it. Frolicking in the waves together, the rest of the group is shortly behind you joining in.

It's not five minutes until Eddie is tackling his wife into the crashing waves, rolling her dramatically in the lapping waves and sand. Max and El are jumping through crashing waves, hand in hand trying to make it past the crest and to where it is calm. Some of the boys are sitting in the sand watching and enjoying the cool breeze you catch when you're closer to the sea.

You, well, you were enjoying yourself wholeheartedly. That is until you're making your way back to shore and a huge wave creeps up behind you and slams you to the ground. Water currents tossing you around a bit like a ragdoll, it's a moment before strong arms pull you up and out, wiping your hair out of your face and brushing the wet globs of sand off you as you regroup. It's Steve who's got you and brings you back to shore, where you flop down on the sand together and burst out in laughter after you're both sure that you're alright, making it even harder to catch your breath.

The day at the beach was way more sandy than usual because of it all, sitting in the sand, being thrown around by gritty waves and soupy sand finding it's way intermingling with your bathing suit. You just can't wait till the end of the day to shower and hose off, so you dip away to hop in the rinse shower along the side of the property. Door swung shut, you run the water cold so it's as refreshing as it is a welcome rinse to your body where the sand is sticking and scratches.

Hair slicked back by the cool droplets, you're realizing quickly that a simple rinse won't rid your swimsuit of all of the caked in sand. Maneuvering your emerald green one piece to shake free the grit of the ocean, you're making progress as you drop your wide set straps off your shoulders and start working out the sand from your upper half.

It's just then that Steve must have had the same idea, and he's traipsing through the door of the shower himself, only to find you, strap down, left breast fully exposed, tan lines of your right crisp and leaving nothing to the imagination the way the suit is bunching down, and your hands coaxing the water over them from the low pressure showerhead to work off the sand.

"Holy fuck!" You both yell at the same time.

Yours an exclamation. A "Holy FUCK!" A barked out reaction to the surprise. The admonishment of your friend who doesn't seem to pay a goddamn mind to anything going on around him or he would have heard the shower tap on and running when he approached.

But his… Well, his was a statement. A "Holy. Fuck." Drawn out. A deep and gravely comment made to acknowledge the surprise he's found. More of an interest than an intrusion.

So when you reached to cover yourself and hide from embarrassment as a knee jerk reaction, he didn't make quite as quick a move to leave you be. He lingered, just enough for you to notice and under his breath whispered out again "Holy fuck."

Adequately covered, or at least enough that you can feel functional at this point, you look at him to quip "Are you just gonna stare or what?" And you expect him to snap out of his titty haze and leave you be to shake out the rest of your sand trap, but he doesn't.

Instead he asks, "Well, is that an invitation?"

Your eyes narrow at him, and he shrugs in reaction. "You can't be serious, Steve. Get outta here."

"I save you, and this is the thanks I get?" He teases, and you can't help but see how his eyes, blown out and black, don't move from your body when he says it.

"Steve." You say, quietly.

"Yeah?"

"I can thank you later." comes out just above a whisper.

"I think I'd rather you thanked me now."

When you don't argue back, or say anything for that matter, he takes that as enough of an answer as he needs. He knows you, and he knows that you have no problem telling someone to take a hike, so if you're not yelling at him like he's a small boy who got his hand caught in the cookie jar, he knows you're inviting him to take a bite.

So he's inside the shower quicker than your mind can even catch up to what's happening. He's crowding your space and reaching backwards to do the one thing you forgot to do yourself, hook the damn lock. You're pretty sure this man hasn't moved his eyes from you since the moment the door opened and at this point, you're meeting his gaze.

A sweeping hand, under your ear and landing on the nape of your neck is what shakes you out of your daze and before you know it his lips are on yours. It's a bruising thing, the way he presses them into yours, pulling you closer still by where his hand is cupping your head with his broad hand. You come up for air just a second before he backs off and you find yourself, open mouthed and smiling into his lips, still pressing into you. "Fuck. Honey. I- you okay? With this? I don't wanna… "

"I know I tell you this all the time, but this is different. Steve, you fuckin talk too much. Shut. Up." You say, emphasizing your words with two little tugs to his own hair where your hands have snaked around, too.

And he takes this welcome advance as an opportunity to wrap his other hand around you, up and under your arm, resting at the center of your back. Pressing together, you're so close. Impossibly so, and every little tick of the hip or twitch of the lips can be felt by the other instantaneously. He's testing you out but getting bolder by the second when he experimentally rolls his hips just a bit before coaxing your legs a bit wider to slot his knee in between. You gasp out at the feeling of him against you and involuntarily find yourself rolling your cunt against his thigh.

"Ah-oh fuck. Shit. Steve." You squeak out, as you look down to see that he's tucked up his swim shorts high enough that your grinding on his exposed thigh. Bristly hair on his legs commingling with the scratch of the sand and sea salt on your own thighs.

"C'mon, honey. You came in here to get clean. Me too. Lemme help you, yeah? '

Nodding your permission, he gently slips his fingers under the still loose straps of your suit, coaxing them down further, fingers ghosting over your arms as he works them down.

You've been doing this trip for years, and you swear the last thing you ever thought would happen was having Steve fucking Harrington peeling off your wet swimsuit in the shower. "You sandy all over, huh? Me too. Gotta rinse you off." he says, as he's reaching up for the shower head, detaching it from its base and bringing it down in between the two of your chests. Holding it there for a moment, he seems to consider this whole thing for the first time. "You-your good, right? I mean, I trust you. Do you trust me? "

"Yeah Steve, I do." You say, pressing your forehead to his and blinking away droplets gathering on your eyelashes.

He pulls the rest of your swimsuit away from where it's suctioned on your tummy and works it down your body, dropping heavy and wet on the shower floor. Once it's out of his way, he's back on your lips, sucking in your bottom lip just as you feel the cool water hitting your clit. Steve moves the shower head gently but purposely around your whole cunt, paying attention to your sensitive bud between passes through your folds. "Gotta get you cleaned up, huh? Need you clean for me. For what I'm gonna do next." He teases and you moan at his words.

Not exactly sure what he has planned just yet, you let him keep working your pussy clean and with every second of the pulsing jets of water hitting your clit rhythmically. "Yeah, baby I think you're all set." He states, replacing the shower head where it belongs and reaching his free hand down to rub through your folds, checking to be sure you're comfortable and free of that pesky sand.

When he's met with yet another whimper he's immediately dropping to his knees on the wet planks of the shower floor "Can I please, please taste you. Please."

"I didn't take you as one to beg, Harrington." You whisper out the tease.

"I will for this - for you. God, would you just answer me?"

You look down at him and nod but he wants your words instead, commanding you to speak up. And so you do, you gasp out confirmation just as his lips latch on to your already sensitive clit. He suckles there a little bit, before moving to make his tongue wide and flat coaxing noises from you that he doesn't want to forget the sound of.

He throws your thigh over his shoulder, giving him deeper, more angled access to your cunt, working you, moving it in and left to right. You cry out as his nose nudges at your clit while he slips a finger in up to his second knuckle and the cry turns silent as he keeps up his ministrations. Droplets of water are tickling down your chest and stomach, soaking his hair and face where he stays tucked in between your thighs. He shakes his head back and forth tapping at your clit with his movement and making you see stars.

Adding in another finger, he keeps lapping at your pussy, taking breaks to nip at the place where your thighs meet your sex and back again. He licks off a trail of water along the seam of your leg before making his way back to your center. Scissoring his fingers, he groans right into you and the vibration of it all drives you wild. "God, you fuckin taste like heaven. So good." And he dives back in, running his wide tongue along your entrance, drawing it front and upward toward your clit.

This time he pauses and presses his tongue up into the base of your clit, holding it there just as he presses both long fingers up and into your spongy spot, freeing the most wanton sound yet from deep within your throat. It spurs him on to keep going, pulsing that tongue and stroking that spot within. You're tensing and shaking under his strong grip and soft tongue, leg still hiked high over him, water cascading around the both of you. You're tumbling over the edge quickly after that.

In a bit of a daze and with wobbly knees, you swing your leg back down off his shoulder and bring him up towards you by his ears, wanting to taste yourself on his tongue in ways you never have before, and he looks beautiful like that. Eyes wide and wanton, hair dripping wet down his hair spattered chest, jaw slack in his own lust and pleasure, lips a deep pink and swollen from working you up down there. You bring him up fully to meet your lips and groan into his mouth, your taste heady and salty and beachy.

"I think you're clean" he laughs out as he pulls back just slightly and you can't help but bark out a laugh back. He takes the opportunity to latch on to your neck and bites at the skin under your ear.

In that moment you decide you're not done with him.

Tugging at the ties of his swim trunks, Steve pulls back to look at you. "N-no, we don't have to."

You hear his words but you also feel the hardness underneath those trunks, "Steve, it's - it's no big deal. You started this. Let me… let's finish, yeah?" You eye him teasingly, eyebrows raised, "Something tells me you want to."

"You're a menace, you know that right? Always have been."

"Yeah, but you're into it, apparently." you stand on your tippy toes to whisper in his ear.

"Fuck. Fuck. Yeah." He gets out as you lick the water droplets up "Seeing you here every year. Highlight of my trip. Swear to God."

And as his soaked trunks hit the floor, the pair of you are both fully exposed standing under the running water together. Running your hand along his chest, playing with the tufts of hair there, you hook your finger though the thin chain hanging from his neck and pull him closer. "Steve." You whisper into his mouth.

"Yeah, whaddya need, honey?"

"You. God just, please fuck me. Okay?"

Clutching you close by the waist, he hikes your leg up and around his hip, reaching down along your ass to rub at your pussy from behind, working you up again. Almost teasing. The rock hard length of him is pressed up between your two tummies, begging to be paid attention to, so you break your bodies apart for just a second to angle him down, slipping if wetly between your lower lips - a mix of water and your hot dripping slick letting him slip through your folds.

A whimper slips out of your lips as his head catches your clit and he takes the opportunity to press into you, sounds something like a growl falling from his own lips at the feeling. Your mind is going blank, but the one thing you're sure of is that Steve Harrington's dick is huge. "Ohmigod, you're, bi- oh" you moan as he adds another few inches, moving slowly for you. "Fuck, you're huge. Jesus, Steve."

"Yeah? Biggest you ever had? God, tell me it's the biggest you've ever took."

"Shit" you hiss, as he bottoms out inside you, yelping out as you both finally meet at the base. "Yeah, shit. No one's ever been that fuckin deep, Steve. Holy shit."

"Fuck, yeah. I'm gonna move now, okay? You're good, right?" And you nod, enthusiastically. Almost too enthusiastically.

You've known Steve almost your whole life. You've played on playground swing sets growing up, rolled your eyes at his antics at your friends' parties in high school, cheered him on at basketball games and worked alongside him as lifeguards at the country club pool. You give him shit, he gives it back to you. You share comfortable silences and close friends. He's had your back in the face of monsters and raging fires… But right now, all that's on your mind is how he's pounding into your pussy in this shower and why this has never ever happened before in all these years. Because Jesus Christ, it's feeling euphoric.

The slapping of skin echoes loudly in the wooden and metal enclosure of the shower, bodies slick with water , hands gliding along your back and along your ass, keeping that knee hiked high for him, yours clutching the front of his shoulders and digging crescent moons into his skin. He's making noises, has he thrusts up into you at a bruising pace, hitting your cervix and making you cry out…but he's holding back all the same and all you want is him to let go a little more.

"Fuck, wait. Holy shit. Lemme just… " you drop your leg down and hear his small whine as he slips out of you, but you're quick to flip your body around, leaning forward and bracing yourself on the beams of the wooden door frame, shaking your ass at him in an invitation to get close to you again. "Wait. Wait… " you gasp out as you feel his tip nudge against your entrance from behind.

"What's wrong? Are you .. are you okay? I can stop." He gets out through heaving breaths.

"No. I'm good… but if you wanna finish me off, you gotta do one thing for me." Looking over your shoulder, giving him a playful but serious look.

"What'dya need. Honey. Anything. What do you want?" He holds his cock, pulsing and screaming to be let back inside your warm and velvety walls, dots of precome rinsed off by the droplets of water as fast as they emerge.

"Don't hold back. Just… .let me hear you. I wanna hear you. Talk to me. Don't shut up. And fuck - fuck me harder" you hiccup out.

"Yeah, yeah okay. I'll … I'll - fuck" he pushes in fully in one slide, no resistance from you in the least. "You wanna hear how good you make me feel huh? Always so cocky. Jesus."

His fingers are pressing into the tops of your thighs, purple mottled marks already blooming there under his fingertips as he pulls you backwards, spearing you on his cock, meeting him thrust for thrust. His other hand is wrapped around your waist, reaching for the soft of your belly, snaking up your chest until he finds your tits, nipples peaked with the chill of the air now that you're not directly under the stream of water. He runs his thumb along your nipples, giving them a playful flick back and forth before massaging them and pulling you up to meet him, back to chest.

In this position, you can drop yourself down as you meet his upward thrusts, bouncing on his cock and you feel his tip nudging a particular spot inside you that makes your walls constrict. "Oh honey, yeah? That's it. That's the spot isn't it?" And you can tell that has Steve's mind going off the deep end, making good on his promises to let you hear him, he's babbling, water splashing and raining down on you both, his grunts getting louder, and your name slipping off his lips in a whisper, like it belongs there.

Reaching back and around his neck, you turn so that you can see him and tilt his down to meet your gaze. Mouths both open, panting into one another, lips touching but never connecting because you can't quite sync up with the way you're both grinding on each other. "Jesus Christ, hnng fuck, I'm gonna… honey. Where do you want me? C'mon. Tell me."

You hear his sharp intake of a breath and feel his lips latch on to your throat, leaving sloppy kisses and sucking a bruise into it that you know you'll have to explain to your friends later. "Nnn-no. No. Not yet. I told you, lemme hear you. You're holding back I can tell."

"Oh-okay yeah. Gimme a sec. " He breathes through his nose taking in the scent of whatever vanilla soap you were using before he barreled in, maybe a little coconut still left over from your sunscreen, too. He exhales as his hand drifts down your front, settling over your mound and expertly finding your clit once again. He's rubbing figure eights, before sliding it between his two fingers, giving it pressure and pull from the sides as he continues to thrust into you from behind, bouncing you with very little effort because of how wet and slick you are from the shower.

"You're a fuckin' piece of work, you know that. Shit - taking me like this… fuck. " He growls out as he bends you forward fully now, holding you up by your chest as he rams into you. Leaning over just enough to get close to your ear he whispers in "Ya gonna let me come now? Fuck - ya gonna let me put it on your back? Huh? Your tits? Where do you wanna have it, honey?" He hisses as you grind your hips backwards and clench down hard on his shaft, squeezing on him and making his thrusts slow down, become more meticulous, more purposeful.

You're gasping in air and squeaking out noises of all kinds in time with his thrusts, telling him just how good he's making you feel between breaths. Just how deep he is hitting you. Just how much you wanna hear him when he comes. He's huffing out breaths and promising you things like next time as he's incoherently babbling praises at you as you ride back on his dick.

"You like when I talk about coming for you? You wanna have it, yeah?"

"Y-yeah I wanna. Inside. Do it inside, fuck!" You shout out, water from the showerhead beating on your back as his thrusts are jolting you forward where you're braced against the door. The janky little rusted metal latch holding on for dear life as he continues his pace, chasing his high and praying to God you let go with him.

He's feeling bold now that his brain is only chasing your orgasms. He groans the loudest moan you've heard from him this whole time as you feel him tense behind you, keeping up his movements but, just barely. His hips are stuttering and his hand falls down on your ass in a loud smack. "Ohhh shit. Honey. Yeah. That's what I'm talking about."

Your walls give him one last squeeze and you grip him tight, legs shaking under you as your orgasms rushes over your whole body. He has to hold you up as it rolls through your body, flashes going off behind your eyes as you cry out with pleasure. The pain from the smack to your ass being washed away with the cool of the water trickling over you.

It takes him only three firm thrusts more to fill you up, stuttering sounds falling from his lips. Incoherent blabbers and praises and gasps of your name spurting out along with his come.

You're both absolutely breathless, heaving chests and deep sighs filling the air while still connected to one another. Steve pulls you up slowly as he slips out of you, and spins you around. Still cradling your body and wrapping you into him, he pulls you both under the water to rinse off and come back down from wherever you both are floating off to right now. As you stand there swaying under the cascade, he brings his lips to your temple with a kiss as he mutters "I did mean it. I love seeing you here every year."

You hum along with him, because you do love seeing him too. You just never thought about it like this before. And now that you have, you're pretty sure it's the only way you can from here on out.

"We should probably get back down to the beach. I'm sure at least one of those nosey dipshits have noticed were both missing by now." Steve says against your skin.

"Yeah, yeah, you're right. But you are the one explaining these marks you left on me. I'm not saying a peep."

"Aw, c'mon sweetheart. You had a lot to say when I was in-"

"Stop that right now. If you wanna even think about doing this again, you're gonna stop right now." You roll your eyes at him while wrapping yourself with a towel and unlatching the door. As you back out and start up towards the house to grab a new swimsuit, he sees the grin on your face.

"Yeah, okay honey. Shutting my mouth now...so I'll definitely see ya later, then." He says with a wink, just as the door shuts and your left naked, wrapped up in Steve Harrington's towel with all your friends gathered round the grill out back making lunch watching you as you make your way around the path.

Eddie snarls a wide grin at you as he brings both thumbs up, his wife slapping his chest when she notices. "Hey Nance!" He yells out. "I think Harrington's got himself a new roommate for next trip!"

[isawken]

made some helpful visual aids for those who need them:

dating a chef is great until you bring him home to your parents who never cook and they’re the ones making dinner. like oh yeah honey i know you have a palette attuned to perfection and all, but tonight my dad is making a family recipe. it’s called “loose meat”

[norabrice1701]

Twist My Heart - Ch. 6

Bradley “Rooster” Bradshaw x Jake “Hangman” Seresin

- A TG:M Twister AU -

Series Main List

Also on AO3

Ch. 6 Warnings: Idiots in love; domestic fluff

A/N: Thank you all for reading this fic!! ❤️

3 years later

“You’re going the wrong way,” Jake says, setting his beer down. “Here, give me that.”

He plucks the remote control from Bradley’s hand, and Bradley doesn’t fight him. Despite scrolling through the list of hundreds of channels in the ‘Live TV’ guide, he still hasn’t found the channel they’re looking for. They’ve only had this TV installed for a week now, and Bradley still doesn’t have an intuitive feel for the built-in channel guide. And to compound his ineptitude, there isn’t even a search feature for him to enter ‘NBC Kentucky Derby’.

Jake finds the channel with ease, and the sights and sounds of Churchill Downs fill the screened-in porch. Bradley leans forward on the outdoor couch, dragging a tortilla chip through the accompanying queso fundido. Well, maybe calling it that is too generous – it’s just melted Velveeta and breakfast sausage – but neither of them boast gourmet kitchen prowess. Perhaps it’s something they can work on, but between Jake’s mastery of the grill and Bradley’s skill with a saute pan, they haven’t managed to starve yet. 

Or burn down the kitchen. Or the rest of their house. 

Because that fact still… god. 

He co-owns a house with Jake. 

Together. 

A house that they intend to turn into their home. 

They’re making good progress, especially after spending today in the yard. The landscaping had needed lots of love - still does - but after pulling tons of weeds, raking up all the dead shit in the flowerbeds, and mowing the lawn, they have earned the right to a lazy night on the couch. 

Bradley shifts against the all-weather cushion as he takes a swig of beer. He drapes an arm along the back of the couch, gazing up at the wall-mounted TV as Jake leans forward, munching a queso-slathered chip. 

Jake snags another chip before reaching for his beer. “Who’s your money on for the race?” 

Bradley doesn’t bother to hide his indifference. “I have no idea. I don’t even know who all’s in the field.” 

“Forte scratched this morning.” Jake supplies, licking a stray drop of beer foam from his top lip. “Tapit Trice is expected to perform well, along with Two Phils.” 

He arches a brow in disbelief even as his mouth quirks with amusement. “Didn’t know you played the ponies.” 

Jake doesn’t quite roll his eyes. “That phrase only applies if you put down money, Roo - and luckily for you, I don’t.” 

And Bradley does know that’s true. He’s learned much about Jake’s inner-workings and bad habits - and gambling doesn’t make the list. He continues to relax against the couch, taking in Jake’s profile set against the colors of sunset. Tall white clouds hang in the eastern sky, reflecting the brilliant colors back at them - and Bradley’s struck with another moment of incredulity. 

This handsome man is now his husband. The white gold band on Jake’s finger gleams against the beer koozie, matching the ring that adorns Bradley’s finger. Honesty, the metal band still feels a little foreign but each time he takes it off, he feels lost without it. 

“Then, I’ll go for Two Phils.” Bradley eventually says, tapping his wedding ring against the neck of the better bottle with a clink. “Always go for the funny name, right?” 

“In that case, you’d want Raise Cain or Cyclone Mischief.” Jake’s mouth curls with a smile against the rim of his beer bottle. “Though, neither one of them has great odds.” 

Bradley reaches for another chip, sweeping it through the queso. “Trying to impress me, hmm?” 

Jake’s laugh warms his chest. “Little late for that, don’t you think?” 

Bradley wipes a smudge of queso from his mustache. “Don’t think just because we’re already married doesn’t mean you’re off the hook.” He returns his arm to the back of the couch, fingers bushing against the strong line of Jake’s shoulders. “You got to keep proving that I made the right choice, right?” 

Jake’s eyes blaze with playful indignation. “Careful now, sweetheart - gotta keep proving that we made the right choice. I coulda said no, you know.” 

He squeezes Jake’s shoulder gently, heart fluttering as Jake leans into him. “I know you coulda. And that would have broken my heart.” 

Jake settles against his side and a wave of contentment washes over Bradley. A gentle breeze blows through the screened-in porch as they relax in their little backyard, and Bradley feels his face split wide with a stupid grin. He’s glad that Jake can’t see it and tease him for it. Ducking his head, he brushes a kiss to whatever part of Jake he can reach before taking another sip of his beer and returning his attention to the TV screen. 

The horses parade out of the stables and onto the track. Announcers recap the top contenders, identifying the contestants as they make their way towards the starting gate. Bradley doesn’t consider himself overly fond of horse racing, but there’s something fun about watching the fastest two minutes in all of the sports’ world.

“Well, if you knew anything about horse racing,” Jake rumbles softly. “You’d know that you’re supposed to pick three horses - one each for win, place, and show.” 

“That’s why I have you,” Bradley counters. “If we ever go to Churchill Downs, you can place the bets.” 

“Is that on your bucket list?” Jake asks, words deforming against the beer bottle lip. 

Bradley’s brows furrow. “I don’t know… guess I haven’t thought about it, really.” Maybe it’s because of how his dad died, but the idea of a bucket list doesn’t sit well with him. While he doesn’t deny the power of having dreams and goals, he also learned at a young age to just be grateful for everything life has given him and consider everything else as icing on the cake. He wets his top lip, sighing gently. “How about you?” 

“Only if you wear one of those big, gaudy hats.” Jake nods towards the screen as the camera zooms in on a woman in an oversized bright yellow, red, and white hat. 

Bradley grimaces. “No chance in hell, man.” 

“Maybe if you lose a bet?” Jake prods, mischief in his eyes and smile. “Or if Tapit Trice wins?” 

A chuckle works up Bradley’s throat, fading as the TV screen jumps to a split-screen showing the local news station studio. 

“Good evening, we apologize for interrupting the Kentucky Derby, but we have a severe weather situation brewing in Nowata County to bring you up to speed on.”

A Doppler radar now dominates half the screen as Jake and Bradley both stare with rapt interest. Severe thunderstorm warnings and tornado watch banners light up the top and bottom of the shot as the strong supercell, in shades of angry red and orange, bears down on the noted towns.

“Now, this powerful storm is currently located just two miles east of Delaware, Oklahoma - and already we have reports of golf ball sized hail ranging up to baseball sized hail. This is not a storm to mess around with, folks, especially with the strong winds and lightning. Tornado watches are in effect for all of Nowata County, but as you can see…” 

Jake lets out a low whistle. “Just look at that,” he muses, nodding towards the TV. “That’s the perfect formation for a hook echo.” 

Bradley nods as his throat goes dry. “Yeah… especially with those wind speeds. And just look at that outflow boundary.”  

As if summoned by their words, big bold letters declaring a tornado warning flash across their screen. 

“Alright, now we have a tornado warning in effect - I repeat, tornado warning in effect - for Nowata County. Seek shelter in a basement or storm cellar or interior room of your house…” 

The on-screen radar image updates, and the text-book perfect hook echo formation appears on screen. A tracking cone emanates from it as the meteorologist continues to outline the storm’s projected path, taking it nowhere near their home. Despite the contentment with Jake at his side, the desire to hop in the SUV and chase it down still nags at him. Perhaps it always will - and if it weren’t their weekend off, perhaps they would already be on the scene. 

“You ever considered a job in television?” Jake asks, clinking his own ring against the glass bottle neck. “It’d give us all something much better to look at.” 

Bradley resists another eye-roll. “And miss the chance to be out in the field with the rain on my face and the wind in my hair?” He glances over at Jake. “Not a chance in hell.” 

Something proud sparks in Jake’s gaze, laced with innate understanding. Slowly, he drags his gaze back to the TV nodding up at the screen. “Almost makes me want to be out there, you know? I’m sure they’re getting some good action.” 

Bradley nods gently, letting himself settle more visibly against the couch. “Yeah, I know what you mean,” he says, coaxing Jake back with him. “But there’ll always be another storm, right? Besides,” he flashes his husband a teasing, alluring grin. “I can definitely promise you much better action in our bedroom later tonight.”  

Jake’s eyes wrinkle with laughter as he shakes his head. “Better? Hmm, debatable. Infinitely more satisfying?” He leans in for a quick kiss. “Every time, darlin’.” 

Fin

Series Main List

Tag List: @redfurrycat

[merrybrides]

7 Rules You Can Break on Your Wedding Day

Each year, 2.5 million weddings take place in the United States alone. Many of these ceremonies share certain elements, thanks to wedding “rules” we’ve come to accept over the years. The bride wears a white gown. The couple stands at the altar with a group of their closest friends. Inevitably, the DJ will play Uptown Funk or the Chicken Dance. But here’s the thing: there are no hard and fast rules for putting on a wedding (except for signing the marriage license, of course). If you want to make your wedding a truly unique affair, here are a few traditions you can happily put aside.

1. Wearing White

The white wedding dress was first popularized in 1840 when Queen Victoria wed Prince Albert. The young queen wore white because the color highlighted the lace details on her gown. However, the decision was a peculiar one at the time, as most brides wore brightly colored dresses for their weddings.

After Victoria, white wedding gowns became synonymous with purity—and more importantly, became the standard in bridal fashion. But it’s important to remember why Victoria selected the color: because she liked it! If you’d rather wear a red, blue, or black dress on your wedding day, you absolutely should.

2. Wedding Favors

Bring me 100 people who’ve been to a wedding, and I’ll show you 100 people who don’t care about the favors they received. Wedding favors are often cheap, meaningless gifts that sit in your guests’ purses until they eventually throw them out. Worst of all, buying these little trinkets can be quite expensive! There are plenty of better ways to spend the money in your wedding budget—and better ways to thank your guests for celebrating with you. Trust me, your guests will appreciate better food or more champagne rather than a customized Koozie.

3. Not Seeing Your Spouse Until the Ceremony

On the morning of a wedding, there’s always much to-do over keeping the couple separate. After all, if they see each other before the ceremony starts, theirs will be a doomed marriage…right? Everyone knows how silly this idea is, but it’s a tradition we stick to all the same. While it can be lovely for guests to see that romantic “first look,” there’s nothing wrong with a couple spending every moment of their big day together. If you and your sweetheart want to do a first look photo shoot—or even get ready together in the morning—go for it!

4. Single-Sex Bridal Parties

Getting married is a major milestone in a person’s life, so it’s no wonder that most people want their friends to accompany them on the journey. Bridal parties can be a source of comfort and support, but for too long, they’ve stuck to one rule: brides can only choose women for their bridal party, and grooms can only choose men. Whatever pronouns your best friends may use, they have every right to be part of your bridal party. Don’t be afraid to have male “bridesmaids” or female “groomsmen”! As long as your best friends are at your side when you say, “I do,” tradition can take a hike.

5. The Bride’s and Groom’s “Sides”

When a bride and groom stand at the altar, the bride is always on the groom’s left side. As a result, it’s become custom for the bride’s family to sit on the left side of the venue, while the groom’s family sits on the right. However, once the newlyweds tie the knot, their families become connected by marriage. Everyone at the wedding is one big, happy family, so why not sit like it? Foregoing the traditional family “sides” makes it easier for your guests to mingle with your new in-laws.

6. The Home Goods Registry

For many decades, it was considered a rule to only list home goods on your wedding gift registry, like dinnerware or small appliances. This rule was primarily practical; the newlyweds were often starting adulthood on their wedding day, so they rarely had any household items between them. But these days, couples get married much later in life (and often co-habitate beforehand), so their registry needs have changed. Don’t be afraid to register for the items you and your spouse need. After all, the whole point of a registry is to advise your guests of the gifts that will be most useful!

7. The Cocktail Hour Photo Session

The cocktail hour between the wedding ceremony and reception serves two purposes: it gives the guests a chance to mingle (and get warmed up for the party later), and it gives the bridal party a chance to have their photos taken. But if you ask me, this is another rule that needs to be broken.

Newlyweds used to take their photos after the ceremony to avoid seeing each other before the wedding—another rule we’ve already pooh-poohed. And besides, what couple would want to miss out on cocktails with their nearest and dearest? By moving around the photo schedule, a couple can spend much more time with their guests.

Of course, if you want to stick with these traditional wedding rules, that’s your prerogative. But if these rules don’t sit right with your sensibilities, feel free to push them aside! It’s one way to make your wedding feel a little more like you and your spouse.

[tirednotflirting]

being in your late 20s is so weird bc truly everyone you know is at a vaguely different point in their life.

last night at a wedding dinner, gal next to me is having this sorta crisis over thinking she’s too old to be considering having kids (she is one year my senior), couple beside her are talking about their mortgage, girl across from me is giving a debrief on the one night stand she had with her neighbor, and I’m just observing everything bc i lost my voice and need it back in time for seeing chappell roan next weekend.

but we were all equally delighted by the themed koozies and the churros and ice cream that got brought out for dessert.

[kustomscreenprint]

Easy Custom Koozie Design | Kustom Screen Print

Looking for custom koozies for your next event? Kustom Screen Print makes it simple and fast with our user-friendly design tool. Choose from a variety of styles and make your koozies stand out for parties, weddings, and more. Start your design today!

[circledotdesigns]

Blame it on the 'Rona Quarantine Can KOOZIE® - Social Distancing Quarantine Birthday Wedding Beer Hugger, pregnancy announcement - BLACK INK by CircleDot

http://dlvr.it/TDbxN4

[groomsday]

Groomsmen Store

Let’s face it: walking down the aisle isn’t the only adventure your groomsmen are gearing up for. With the big day approaching, it’s time to show your appreciation for their support, laughs, and the occasional wedding planning save. What better way to do that than with a gift that’s as cool as their loyalty? Enter the world of coolers – the perfect groomsmen gift, designed to keep their drinks cold and their spirits high. From tech-savvy ice chests to personalized beer coolers, we’ve rounded up the top choices that will make your groomsmen the stars of every tailgate, fishing trip, and backyard BBQ.

The "Keeping It Cool" Wine Tote

This waterproof tote is as versatile as it is stylish. Whether it's for a beach day, a park picnic, or even your wedding, this tote will keep their wine perfectly chilled on the go. Featuring an adjustable strap for hands-free convenience, your groomsmen can mingle with guests at your wedding or bachelor party, wine in hand, with ease.

The Personalized Groomsmen Cooler Beer Bag

This sleek cooler bag stands out with its personalized name design, making it a unique keepsake. The high-quality wooden handles on the included bottle opener add a rustic touch, while the waterproof insulated lining ensures everything inside stays cold. With a removable 12-compartment divider, it’s perfect for organizing drinks. Plus, the masculine stencil font and wooden-textured gift tag make it the ultimate thoughtful gift.

The Multi-Pocketed Personalized Cooler

For the groomsman who likes to stay organized, this cooler has it all. It holds up to 12 cans or 10 bottles and features a wide-opening top for easy access, heat-sealed PEVA lining to prevent leaks, and multiple organizational pockets. The adjustable shoulder strap ensures your groomsmen can carry their drinks in style, no matter where the celebration takes them.

The "Cool Brew" Beer Tote

This rugged beer tote is built to carry six of their favorite brews, keeping them ice cold until it’s time to pop the top. Perfect for tailgates or outdoor parties, the durable design can be personalized for that extra special touch. Your groomsmen will love this practical yet thoughtful gift that’s sure to last a lifetime.

The Silver Cooler with Built-In Bottle Opener

What better way to say "thank you" to your groomsmen than with a gift they can use long after the wedding? This sleek silver cooler is perfect for golf outings, bonfires, and beach parties. The best part? It comes with a built-in bottle opener, so they’ll always be ready to crack open a cold one, no matter where they are.

The Waxed Canvas Beer Cooler

For the groomsman with style, this waxed cotton canvas cooler is both rugged and refined. It holds up to six bottles, and the soft-sided design with an adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to transport. The best part? You don’t even need to open the flap to grab a beer – they can be pulled right from the cooler without hassle.

The Collapsible Beer Cooler with Bottle Opener

This barrel-shaped, collapsible cooler is the ultimate space saver. It holds up to 12 cans and includes a personalized name design, along with a wooden-handled bottle opener. The 43" adjustable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the front pocket adds extra storage space for small essentials. Your groomsmen will appreciate this practical gift, which serves as a constant reminder of your gratitude.

The "Beer Slinger" Cooler Sleeve

For the beer enthusiast, the "Beer Slinger" is a must. This insulated sleeve holds up to five cold brews and Personalized Groomsmen Gifts can be slung over the shoulder for easy transport to any outdoor event. With a removable can koozie on the strap to keep hands free, it’s perfect for a day at the golf course, a fishing trip, or a BBQ. Add a personal touch by customizing it with up to three initials.

The Personalized Tailgate Cooler Chair

Multifunctional gifts are always a win, and this cooler doubles as a chair! Your groomsman can kick back, relax, and crack open a cold one with this personalized tailgate cooler chair. Add his name or initials for an extra-special touch. Whether he's waiting his turn at the golf course or hanging out at a backyard BBQ, this cooler-chair combo will keep him refreshed and ready.

The Ultimate Cooler Bag for Men

Perfect for a day on the golf course, camping, or fishing, this cooler bag is both durable and lightweight. Made from olive green cotton canvas with HTV vinyl accents, it features a lined, insulated interior to keep drinks cold. The double carabiner clips and side mesh pocket add extra convenience, making it the ideal gift for the groomsman who's always on the go.

The Cooler Bag with Oxford Fabric

Designed for the man who values both form and function, this cooler bag holds up to 12 bottles or 18 cans, with an insulated lining to keep drinks cold or food warm. It’s easy to carry with top handles or an adjustable shoulder strap, and the additional storage pockets ensure there’s room for all the essentials. A great gift for outdoor adventures or casual hangouts.

The Groomsmen Gift Large Beer Cooler

This large, personalized beer cooler is the gift your groomsmen didn’t know they needed. It holds up to 24 cans and 15 bottles, with over 10 customizable vinyl wording options to make it truly unique. The adjustable padded shoulder strap and mesh side pockets add practicality, while the large main compartment with double zipper closure ensures everything stays secure. A standout gift for your wedding party!

These coolers are more than just gifts – they’re the perfect way to thank your groomsmen for their loyalty and support. With practical features, personalization options, and sleek designs, these coolers will keep the celebration going long after your big day is over.

[elenagold236]

Stubby Holder Wedding Favors: The Perfect Personalized Touch for Your Big Day

When planning your wedding, every detail counts—from the venue and décor to the gifts and favors you give your guests. In recent years, couples have been looking for creative and practical ways to thank their guests for attending their special day. One idea that has gained popularity is the stubby holder wedding favor. These personalized can coolers, also known as koozies, offer a fun and functional gift that guests can take home as a memento of your big day. Plus, they help keep drinks cold throughout the festivities!

What Are Stubby Holders?

Stubby holders, commonly known as koozies, are insulated sleeves that fit around bottles or cans to keep drinks cold for longer. They are typically made from neoprene or foam, which acts as an insulator to maintain the drink’s temperature. Stubby holders come in various sizes and can be customized with different colors, designs, and messages, making them a versatile option for any occasion—especially weddings.

Why Choose Stubby Holders for Your Wedding?

Practical and Useful: Unlike some wedding favors that might end up forgotten or discarded, stubby holders are practical items that guests can use long after your wedding day. Whether at a summer BBQ, camping trip, or family gathering, your guests will appreciate having a stubby holder to keep their drinks cold. This means your favor won’t just collect dust—it will get real use!

Personalized Keepsake: One of the best things about stubby holders is how easily they can be customized. You can personalize them with your wedding date, names, and even a special message or design that reflects your personality as a couple. Whether you go for a classic and elegant look or something fun and quirky, stubby holders offer endless possibilities for customization. This makes them a perfect keepsake for your guests, reminding them of your special day every time they use it.

Enhance the Wedding Theme: Stubby holders can be designed to match the theme or color scheme of your wedding. For example, if you’re having a beach wedding, you can choose a tropical design with palm trees or seashells. For a rustic wedding, consider earthy tones with floral accents. Stubby holders can be as unique as your wedding, adding an extra layer of personalization that ties everything together.

Affordable Favors: Planning a wedding can be expensive, but stubby holders offer a cost-effective option for wedding favors. Since they are available in bulk, you can often get a great deal on custom designs without breaking the bank. Additionally, the customization options allow you to add a personal touch without paying for expensive, elaborate favors. You get a functional and meaningful gift at a reasonable price.

How to Customize Stubby Holders for Your Wedding

The fun part of choosing stubby holders as wedding favors is deciding how to customize them. There are endless ways to make them unique and personal for your special day. Here are some ideas:

Include Your Wedding Date and Names: The most common customization is to include the couple’s names and the wedding date. This simple addition makes the stubby holder a meaningful keepsake that will remind guests of your big day. You can also include the location of the wedding if it holds special significance.

Add a Fun Quote or Message: Another popular option is to include a funny or heartfelt quote that reflects your relationship. Phrases like "To Have and To Hold and To Keep Your Drink Cold" are popular choices. You can also opt for a personalized message that resonates with your guests.

Match the Theme: If your wedding has a specific theme, you can incorporate that into the design of your stubby holders. For example, for a rustic wedding, you might choose a design with burlap or wood patterns. For a more formal affair, you can select elegant fonts and colors that complement your wedding’s aesthetic.

Use Photos or Illustrations: Some couples choose to include a photo or illustration on their stubby holders. This could be an engagement photo, a drawing of the couple, or even an image related to the theme of the wedding. Adding a visual element can make your stubby holders stand out even more.

Include Your Favorite Colors: Many couples choose stubby holders in their wedding colors to keep everything coordinated. You can select from a wide range of colors, ensuring that your stubby holders fit seamlessly into your wedding decor.

Creative Ways to Use Stubby Holders at Your Wedding

Stubby holders don’t just have to be handed out as favors at the end of the night—they can be incorporated into your wedding in creative ways that enhance the guest experience.

As Place Settings: You can place a customized stubby holder at each guest’s seat, doubling as both a place setting and a wedding favor. This adds a personal touch to your reception table and ensures that guests have a functional item they can use throughout the event.

At the Bar: If you’re serving bottled or canned drinks at your wedding, set up a display of stubby holders at the bar. Guests can grab one with their drink, keeping their beverages cold while also taking home a souvenir from your wedding.

During the Reception: Encourage guests to use their stubby holders during the reception to keep their drinks chilled. This can be especially helpful if your wedding is outdoors or in a warmer climate where drinks can warm up quickly.

As Part of a Welcome Bag: If you’re having a destination wedding, consider including a stubby holder in each guest’s welcome bag. Along with other essentials like snacks and water, a stubby holder is a practical gift that your guests will appreciate during their stay.

Conclusion: Make Your Wedding Memorable with Stubby Holders

Stubby holders are more than just practical drink accessories—they are a thoughtful and personal way to thank your guests for being a part of your big day. By customizing your stubby holder wedding favors, you’re giving your guests a functional keepsake that they can use long after the celebration is over. With endless design options, affordability, and versatility, stubby holders are the perfect addition to any wedding, helping to make your special day even more memorable. So, why not add a personalized touch to your wedding with custom stubby holders that your guests will cherish for years to come?

[miquella-dalzell-1988]

To Have To Hold Barn Wood Rustic Wedding Koozie Can Cooler - The perfect wedding favor for your rustic themed wedding. #weddingfavor #rusticwedding

[thatweddingshop]

[brick-wigmore-1975]

To Have To Hold Barn Wood Rustic Wedding Koozie Can Cooler - The perfect wedding favor for your rustic themed wedding. #weddingfavor #rusticwedding

[danihost-blog]

Custom Koozies Make a Lasting Impression

When it comes to party favors and promotional products that leave a lasting impression custom koozies are among the most popular. Koozies are practical and stylish, making them a great addition to any beverage. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, going to deer camp with the guys or preparing for your annual birthday celebration, you can’t go wrong with customized koozies. There are a number of…

[zorahs-sustainable-shop]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: 💒🆓WEDDING KOOZIES 2023 BRIDE GROOM CHEERS 🎉🥳😘🆓🆓🆓FREE W/$25 BUNDLE ❣️💕🍾.

[bestshopzone]

Custom Koozie Design

Origin and Evolution

Remember those precursors to the Koozie? Yeah, me neither. They were way before our time and not half as much fun.

What are Koozies?

You're probably drinking from one right now, aren't you? Koozies, those cool, insulated wraps that keep our beverages chilled, our hands dry, and our style game strong. CHECK HERE

The Evolution of Koozies

Koozies have come a long way since their inception in the late 70s as simple, uninspiring can coolers. Over the years, however, these humble beverage holders have transformed into superbly versatile tools for both personal expression and business promotion.

Current Market Demand for Customized Koozies

But, hold on to your hats, folks, apparently there's a continually rising demand for custom Koozies. From weddings to corporate events, people just can't get enough of these customizable nuggets of neoprene!

Why Customized Koozie Designs?

Alright, love, spill the tea? (Not literally, of course. We all know a hot tea spill can result in a hasty retreat). So, what's all the fuss about customizing Koozie designs?

The Power of Personalized Items

We humans are funny, aren't we? We have a strange affinity for anything that has our stamp, our signature. It feels more us, doesn't it? Customized items, like Koozies, add a certain level of personal touch that could even make Uncle Bob smile. CHECK HERE

Various Utilities of Custom Koozies

Besides showing off our quirkiness, custom Koozies have become a creative way to promote businesses or send off guests with a memorabilia from memorable events like births, weddings, or graduations.

Different Audiences for Customized Koozies

Each audience is as different as cheddar and brie. The corporate crowd might like their Koozies crisp with a logo, while college students might prefer sassy, funny quotes to bring out the laughs on a Friday night.

Various Types of Koozies

Ah, the world of Koozies is as varied as a box of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.

Classic Foam Koozies

You can't go wrong with the OG of Koozies. Inexpensive, effective, and comfy in the hand. A timeless choice, like apple pie or a rerun of Friends.

Neoprene Koozies

The Rolls Royce of Koozies, if you will. They're ultra-insulating, durable, and possess a certain sleekness that's hard to resist. CHECK HERE

Specialty Koozies

For those who aspire to be unicorns in a field of horses. Think Koozies shaped like football jerseys, flasks or even dresses that offer a unique twist.

Designing Your Custom Koozie: A Step by Step Guide

Creating a custom Koozie design is like baking a cake – you need the right ingredients, a great recipe, and a cherry topping for the perfect finish. Let's bring out our aprons, shall we?

Choosing the Right Material

There are a few factors to consider while selecting materials such as durability, comfort, insulation, cost, and, of course, how it feels in your hand. Take time to compare different materials and choose the best match for your purpose like a chef curates ingredients for his signature dish.

Creating the Perfect Design

Pray to the muse, go crazy with the color palette, or brew a pot of midnight oil and set up a brainstorming session. After all, your Koozie design is a reflection of your brand or occasion. Like a well-curated outfit, each element of your design speaks volumes of your style statement.

Finalizing Your Design for Printing

Once your design is ready, give it a good once-over. Refine it until it's as smoother than a Sinatra croon. Pay attention to colors and patterns as these are the seasoning to your design dish. Lastly, ensure your design is ready in the correct format and quality for a high-fidelity print.

The Printing Process: Bringing Your Koozie Design to Life

We're all set for the main attraction - the transformation of your design from a digital entity to a real, touchable, koozie. CHECK HERE

Selecting the Right Printing Method for Koozies

It's time to play matchmaker! Your design and the printing method need to fit together better than PB&J. Screen Printing, Sublimation, and Heat Transfer each come with their advantages and limitations. Choose wisely, as the perfect match is the backbone of a great print.

Ensuring the Best Print Quality

Think of yourself as a maestro, perfecting every note for the symphony. Consider factors like ink quality, color vibrancy, print resolution, and alignment to churn out a masterpiece.

Post-Printing: Koozie Care and Maintenance

After all your hard work, you want your creation to last longer than a snowflake in summer. Handle freshly printed Koozies with care and follow proper guidelines for cleaning and maintenance to ensure your Koozie stays "hip" and "happening" for long.

Spotlight on Unique Koozie Designs: Real-world Examples and Inspiration

As the saying goes, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." But, we prefer the term "inspiration." So, let's dig into unique Koozie designs that have actually turned heads.

Spotlight on Successful Koozie Designs

These designs have lived to tell the tale of their success. Each one is a lesson, a secret ingredient to the recipe of creating awesome Koozie designs. Analyzing these designs would be like talking with Gordon Ramsay about his favorite dish.

Inspiring Ideas for Your Next Koozie Design

Whether you're planning a social gathering, a corporate event, or even a community drive, these design ideas are sure to tickle your creativity bone. Take notes, folks!

Trends in Koozie Design

Styles may change faster than a chameleon, but by keeping abreast with current trends and anticipating future ones, your Koozie design could be the vogue of tomorrow, or even lead the pack!

The Business of Custom Koozie Design: Challenges and Opportunities

Running a custom Koozie design business is like sailing a ship. There might be rough seas and unfriendly winds, but there will also be plenty of opportunities to discover new islands. CHECK HERE

Challenges in Custom Koozie Design and How to Overcome Them

Like any other business, custom Koozie design has its challenges - meeting client expectations, dealing with competition, or ensuring timely deliveries. But remember, a sailor never becomes skilled amidst calm waters.

Opportunities in the Koozie Design Business

The increasing demand for customized items is a beacon of opportunities. Identify trends, ride the wave, and make the most of these opportunities to mark your place in the industry.

Case Studies of Successful Koozie Design Businesses

Success stories are not just impressive, they are inspiring. Recognize the ingredients that cooked their success, learn from their experiences, and claim your share of the cake! Best Designer