Perhaps one of the most anticipated moments of the bride before she finally says “I do” is her bridal shower.
Fun, practical, and memorable, bridal showers are usually organized by the Maid of Honor and bridesmaids, who invite the bride’s close friends and relatives — from her best friend in first grade to her future mother-in-law – to celebrate the upcoming occasion, in this case by showering the bride with gifts in preparation for their future life together.
More importantly, a bridal shower is a wonderful occasion for the bride’s loved ones to spend time with her before she finally walks down the aisle. It is a time to celebrate her life, for older relatives to give advice, to exchange occasion-related anecdotes, to wish the bride well and of course, to have a memorable (and wholesome) girls-only get-together. It being the last few days of her life as a single woman let it be one of the times to pamper the lovely bride.
If in case you are tasked to organize this event, here are a few things that you need to know and tips to remember:
- When planning the bridal shower, do not be afraid to be creative.
Follow a theme based on the bride’s interests and opinions. Also consider the following factors:
- How Much? – This should be the first question that you should ask before making the big plans. Discuss this with the bridesmaids, or whoever will fund the bridal shower.
- When? – Since the busiest person next to the wedding coordinator is the bride, you may want to check out her schedule before deciding on the date of the shower. She also needs to be informed of the date because she has to find the perfect outfit for the event.
Of course, if you’re planning a surprise shower, be more discreet about your plans, but informed about her schedule.
- Who? – Determine whether there are other bridal showers planned for the bride. If that is the case, you may want to be informed about the attendees. There is no need to invite them to another bridal shower, except of course the mother of the bride and/or groom.
- Where? – Some brides prefer to hold the shower at home. If it is a larger crowd, you might want to book a bigger place, like a hotel maybe. A restaurant is also a good option.
- What? – Bridal showers are celebrations. Therefore, a program of what is bound to take place (i.e. itinerary), together with other necessary preparations, should be in order.
- What should be included in the invitations? When should they be sent out?
- What foods should be served?
- Do you still need to give bridal shower favors?
- How long should the bridal shower last?
Click here for tips on how to choose your bridal shower favors
- Select a theme for the event.
Photo by heylovedesigns under CC by 2.0
A bridal shower should also reflect the bride’s style and personality. If she is a homebody, you may want to consider a pajama party. If she loves the sun and the beach, a beach-themed shower complete with beach-related wedding favors might be a good idea.
Other bridal shower themes to consider include:
- Hawaiian luau, complete with a dance instructor who can teach the guests a few steps of a hula dance
- A makeover shower is ideal for small groups. Invite a beauty consultant to give everyone a makeover and a relaxing beauty pampering
- Bed and breakfast shower, held during breakfast of brunch, and where guests bring gifts for the future couple’s bedroom and kitchen
- A candlelight shower, where a candlelight dinner is served upon the guests. This theme is usually sentimental
- Naughty and nice shower where guests bring one naughty gift and one nice gift
- The tea party, a timeless theme where guests come in fancy hats and gloves.
- A bake-a-thon, this especially works for would-be-brides who love baking and cooking.
Click here for bridal shower decorations according to your theme
- Remember to consult the bride regarding the shower
Photo by icy france under CC by 2.0
Though surprise bridal showers exude thoughtfulness and wit, it would sometimes be better to let her know about the plan. There might be some things that she wants to be included in the event, or some people whom she wants to invite.
More facts:
- A bridal shower should not be confused with a bachelorette party. The main highlight of the bridal shower is the presentation of gifts to the bride-to-be and is usually held earlier than a bachelorette party.
The latter is modeled after the bachelor party, and is held on the night shortly before the wedding to bid goodbye to singlehood. This is usually where the “good girl” takes a backseat, and the naughty side will come out to celebrate its last days of existence.
- Remind the bride to register for gifts. It will be easier for the guests to know what to give to the couple. At the same time, it assures that no item will be duplicated. Be sure to inform the bride to select practical items too for guests with limited budget.
Click here for bridal shower gift ideas
Bridal shower proper
Photo by lostintheredwoods under CC by 2.0
A typical bridal shower lasts for two hours and is usually held in the afternoon. When guests arrive, a light appetizer is usually served. When all the guests are present, ice-breaker games can start. After a game or two, you may begin serving the food. Then you may opt to have the bride open each gift (be sure to have someone with a video camera tape this part) and take pictures. Give shower favors to each guest as they leave.
Games are a good entertainment idea, especially if the shower involves a large number of guests not as acquainted with each other. You may consider playing games like Bridal Bingo, Who Knows the Bride/Groom? and Trivia Game. If you have a themed shower party, you can match the games with the theme.
Whether it is a simple afternoon get-together or an elegant tea party, the most important thing for a bridal shower party is that it should include the bride’s closest family and friends who share a memorable event before the bride begins a new chapter of her life.
Click here for suggestions of bridal shower foods
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