Friendly faces and interactive service gain loyal customers

From dresses with sequins, beading and prints to tuxedos with Mandarin collars, bow ties and long jackets, John Hunter has seen a wide range of styles go in and out of fashion during his 17 years as co-owner of Affinity & The Tux Shop in Spring.

Since 1995, John and his wife, Shirley, have owned, operated and transformed the overall look of the formal dress wear and tuxedo specialty store. Under the original ownership, the full-service shop originated as two separate locations which independently offered tuxedos and pure affinity bridal wear.

John said his key goal is to have a price range that satisfies all customers. The shop caters to a varied clientele by lining its shelves with racks of gowns and tuxedos for several types of events, including homecoming, prom and formals. For weddings, mother-of-the-bride dresses and men's wear are available. Shirley's passion lies in ladies' evening wear, so the business no longer offers bride or bridesmaid dresses.

"We've got a lot of people who have been coming here for a long time," John said. "I don't consider us a real high-end store, but we're certainly not a low-end store. I always try to keep things on sale and have discounts. The last few years, there has been an emphasis on people really wanting value."

Fostering personal relationships between employees and customers is the driving force behind Affinity & The Tux Shop. To create a well-disciplined staff, John tends to hire eager adults and students who are active in sports, clubs, and organizations at their high schools and colleges.

"I've got student workers from 15 years ago that still check in with me every once in a while," he said. "I've had some terrific kids work in this store. I know they take a lot out of here versus working behind a counter somewhere."

Nelda Blair, chairman of The Woodlands Convention and Visitors Bureau, is a long-time customer of Affinity & The Tux Shop. Blair said she recognizes the store as a true jewel in the community, which attracts customers from far and wide.

"I have suggested this place, especially to my friends in Houston, when they are looking for something they won't find on every other woman when they go to an event," Blair said.

John attributes the shop's success, in part, to the last-minute tuxedos and alteration services he offers on-site. At 70 years old, John plans to hold onto his youth by keeping up with the latest fashions for as long as he is able.

"I've got neighbors that sit out there and mow their lawns," he said. "I can't imagine that for me–not yet. Customers are the reason I'm passionate about work."

Affinity & The Tux Shop, 25534 I-45 N., Wood Oak Plaza, Spring, 281-292-7141, www.affinity-tuxshop.com