“I’m getting married!” These can be the most exciting words for any new bride-to-be. For someone planning or attending her shower, these can be the three scariest words ever uttered. Whether it’s a family member or friend everyone has been in this boat. What do you buy the bride that has everything? How do you plan a bridal shower that will be the talk of your friendship circle? Here are some tips to help a clueless gift giver look like a savvy shopper, or a clueless party planner look like a domestic diva.

Everyone wants a bridal shower to go off without a hitch. Games can help keep the mood light and make sure everyone has a little fun at the bride-to-be’s expense. Themes are becoming increasingly popular. Some of my favorites include lingerie, recipes, and travel. This will liven the party and get guests sharing. Don’t be surprised if the groom is even invited. Women are starting to share this traditional day with there soon to be hubby and his family.

Games can be traditional from toilet paper wedding gowns to the guessing game of Who Am I? This will help further break the ice and keep the conversation flowing.

Another popular game is called Gift Exchange (although it goes by other names also). Make sure you have plenty of floor space, then have everyone gather in a circle.  Put several wrapped gifts in the middle of the crowd–one less gift than the number of people in the circle.  These gifts should range from a few really nice gifts all the way down to a couple of cheap joke gifts.  Set a timer to around ten minutes, and starting with the future bride, have her roll a set of dice.  If she rolls doubles, she selects any of the gifts.  The dice are passed around the group, with anyone who gets doubles selecting a prize.

After all the gifts are taken, the fun really begins.  The guest who rolls doubles can take a gift fro another guest–or they can even trade with another guest at any time.  The trading and taking keeps going until your timer goes off.  At the end of the 10 minutes, each lady, if she has a gift, keeps that gift.

Speaking of gifts, what of the gifts you get for the future bride (and groom)?  What to give the couple that has everything, but still wants everything? Time capsules are becoming increasingly popular. They are personable and something every bride and groom will love to reminisce with. Many people include photos and funny stories about the bride and groom.

Some other ways to personalize your gift is to have it engraved. Getting photo frames or glassware, or perhaps plates will help the happy couple start their life together. If you want to give his and her gifts think about matching bathrobes, slippers, or aprons to help heat things up in the kitchen.

As any hostess with “the mostest” knows, keep the champagne glasses full and the goodies plentiful to guarantee a good time for all!