Getting married usually involves a few celebrations, including a bridal shower. This party is an opportunity to shower the bride with gifts and good wishes. We have a few tips to help you plan the bridal shower.
Timing the Bridal Shower
The timing of the bridal shower can create a little confusion for some. How do you know when to throw the party? Is it determined by the length of the engagement or the distance from the wedding day? It is a safe rule to plan the bridal shower about three months prior to the wedding date. Always make sure it does not conflict with other wedding events, such as the bachelorette party.
The Host of the Celebration
Every party needs at least one host, but a bridal shower might have several. You should determine who is hosting the bridal shower before setting the date, and set the date together. Traditionally, the maid of honor hosts this celebration with the bridesmaids. However, it is not uncommon for the mother of the bride, future mother-in-law or other loved ones to participate.
Creating a Guest List
Just as with her wedding day, the bride gets to decide who attends. As a rule, you should never invite someone to the bridal shower that you are not inviting to the wedding. This does not mean you will be inviting everyone to the bridal shower that is invited to the wedding. A bridal shower is a much smaller event that is easier to manage. The guest list usually includes the bridal party, and close friends and family of the couple. If this is a surprise bridal shower, the maid of honor and mother of the bride can work together to form a guest list.
Bridal Shower Invitations
Bridal shower invitations do not need to be as formal as wedding invitations, but they are usually decorative. Make sure to include all the important details, such as the name of the bride, the date and time of the event, venue location, dress code, registry information and the names of the hosts. Invitations should be mailed approximately four to six weeks prior to the bridal shower. Do not forget to include a RSVP slip.
The Bridal Shower Venue
A bridal shower is usually much smaller than a wedding and does not require a large venue. It can be held at a private clubhouse, a wine tasting event, restaurant or a smaller venue. Make sure the venue and designs properly convey the theme. The bride usually takes part in choosing the location. The venue should always be convenient for the bride.
Budgeting for the Party
A bridal shower costs money, but does not need to be expensive. The maid of honor and the bridesmaids usually work together to create a budget. If the budget is tight, the bridal shower can take place in the home of a family member. Catering is an additional expense. Consider a cook and drop option to keep costs low. The bridesmaids could put on their culinary hats and each bring a dish to save even more. There are other expenses to consider, such as party favors, games, prizes and décor.
Bridal Shower Games
Opening gifts and playing games are highlight moments. Traditional games include designing a wedding dress with toilet tissue, Mad Libs, Bingo, the wedding ring toss and bride and groom trivia. You can also let guests get crafty and create a recipe card or a decorative marriage advice card.
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