Bridal Showers
A bridal shower is the fun and exciting precursor to upcoming nuptials. Traditionally, bridal showers were planned by the bridesmaids; however, anyone close to the bride may get the privilege. A fun and well planned party is just a few steps away.
First, it is important to be aware of your budget. A lesser budget doesn’t necessarily mean a lesser shower, but it may influence your location, food, etc. Next, decide who will be attending. Discuss the guest list with the bride-to-be. It will need to be decided if you will have a female only guest list, or if you want a co-ed, couples guest list. Couples bridal showers are actually becoming quite popular. Your guest list will also influence your location. Make sure you will have plenty of room for everyone attending!
The theme of your bridal shower is very important. Decorations, food, gifts, and even dress can all be based on a very special them. The theme should reflect the bride and groom; their hobbies, personalities, their future life together, or even where they are planning their honeymoon are all great theme ideas!
Once you have chosen your location, theme and guests, now for the invitations. Invitations should be sent out six weeks or more in advance. Invitations can be handmade or store bought, but should reflect the theme and bride and groom-to-be. Typically, registry information is not written on the invitation, but for convenience, that information can be included in a separate note in the envelope.
Finally, for the fun part: food and games! Again, keep with the theme and decide on a menu. For a smaller budget, choose a between-meals party time and serve snacks. Hot dogs and chips might be appropriate for a co-ed party or finger sandwiches and tea would be appropriate for a girls only tea; just remember that theme!
There are lots of fun game ideas for bridal showers. They can be complex, wild or as simple as guessing the number of candies in a jar. Awards or small gifts should be given to the winners. The jar of candy could be given to the winner of the guessing game.
During the party, set a time to open gifts. Help the bride-to-be by cleaning up as you go and taking notes on which gift came from which guest. Note taking could be assigned to another guest or do it yourself. The bride will definitely thank you for this later. You may also want a table or coffee table near the bride so she can display all her gifts as she opens them.
One last tip: Keep your eyes open all night long and observe your guests. Is there someone who just doesn’t seem to be involved in thing? Reach out to her personally and invite her to take part. A personal touch is often all that’s needed.
Keep these tips in mind and you are off to a great start. A fun party is a well planned party!