Tips on Planning A Bridal Shower
Bridal showers
are typically held three to six weeks before the wedding, but
that has changed in recent years. Showers can be held closer
or farther from the wedding, depending on what is convenient
for the bride and hostess.
The purpose
of showers has always been to help outfit the couple's new home,
or assemble the bride's trousseau. As tradition has it, a close
friend, the maid of honor, a relative or a bridesmaid may give
the bride a shower, but nowadays, anyone who wants to host a
shower can (even if they are in the wedding party).
Generally
the hostess and the bride get together to discuss what type
of shower the bride-to be would prefer. Themed showers are practical
and very popular. The possibilities are a couple's cocktail
party, a midday luncheon or a shower with a specific theme such
as lingerie, linen or kitchen items. A theme is especially nice
when there is to be more than one shower, which can in turn
minimize the amount of duplicate gifts received.
Lingerie
or Personal Showers: Gifts can include all the beautiful
things most people don't buy for themselves. They help prepare
for the honeymoon. Gifts may include lacy nightgowns, camisoles,
sexy underwear, bras, or a nice robe. Other items may be perfume
or bath accessories.
Linen
Showers: These showers are always useful. You may want
to let everyone know your color scheme. It can be helpful to
register in a department store for items such as monogrammed
towels, a scale, bathroom sets, sheets, pillows or a blanket.
Kitchen
Showers: This is a great shower, especially if it's
co-ed. Browse through any kitchen store or department store
again; it would be helpful if you were to register for items
you need. One fun idea is to have each guest bring a favorite
recipe along with one item needed for its preparation.
When choosing
a shower invitation, be sure to choose something that is uniquely
you! Some brides choose to have sophisticated brunch with girlfriends
and family members while others choose to have a wild night
on the town. Whatever type of shower you choose; you want your
invitations to match. There is usually an RSVP request on the
invitation, and guests should make sure that they do indeed
let the hostess know if they're able to attend.
Here
are some ways to make your invitations memorable!
-
Address the invitations using silver and gold metallic pens.
-
Add a pinch of festive or personalized confetti just before
sealing the envelope.
-
Use an envelope seal or colored envelopes to create
excitement when your invitation arrives in the mail.
Not everyone
who is invited to the wedding needs to be invited to the shower.
Guests are usually close friends or relatives, or perhaps you
may have one shower with each group. Avoid any hurt feelings
by only inviting people to the shower who are invited to the
reception, unless the wedding is taking place out of town, or
only for close family members. With all the excitement and passing
of gifts, it's easy to misplace the cards. Have someone write
down what the gift was and who it was given by, as soon as it's
opened.
Make
sure to show your appreciation by sending a thank-you note within
1- 2 weeks after the shower.
Keeping
it Simple!
1. Try to
have your hostess share the responsibilities and expense
2. Discuss
what type of shower you would prefer.
3. Choose
a date, time and place for the shower.
4. Choose
an Invitation and Thank You Card.
5. Include
the registry locations with each invitation.
6. Sent
out invitations three to four weeks before the shower.
7. With
the people who are helping you, plan games, prizes, food, drink,
favors and decorations.
8. Prepare
as much as you can ahead of time, so you are free to enjoy the
shower.
9. Have
someone designated to record the gifts and gift givers as you
open your gifts.
10. Have
Fun!
If you have any questions, please let customer service know!
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