When Brady Prin graduated from Washington State University with a business degree this past May, he never imagined he would still be on the job hunt in September.

To give his job search a jump start, Prin joined the more than 150 men at the Suit Yourself event hosted at Flint Men’s Grooming in Bellevue. The two-day event offered unemployed men the chance to get job ready. The men were suited with custom interview attire, received a professional grooming session, and met with job recruiters – all at no cost.

The event was produced in partnership with the Overlake Service League, a non-profit providing services, food and shelter to those in need in the Bellevue area.

Men of all ages and walks of life took advantage of the helping hand.

According to Prin, who has sent out countless resumes and cover letters, the hardest part of looking for a job is staying positive as the weeks go by.

“It’s frustrating because I worked hard to earn my college degree and now I can’t even get a sit down interview. It’s really discouraging,” he explained.

Prin heard about the Suit Yourself event and drove from Gig Harbor to meet with a recruiter.

“Even if I don’t get a job out of this, it’s a boost in confidence and gives me hope to keep searching and to not give up,” he said.

Men’s professional attire, including suits, jackets, dress shirts and pants, were donated to Flint and OSL prior to the event. Jeff Collins of My Haberdasher worked one-on-one with the men to give them a custom fit and head-to-toe, job-ready attire.

“This event isn’t just about finding a suit. These men walk in here discouraged and walk out feeling good about themselves,” said Alan and Sarah Hartgraves, the owners of Flint. “This event is about giving hope.”

Lindsay Larin can be reached at 425.453.4602.