If you are planning your wedding day, a few celebrations are in order. The bridal shower is a very special celebration for the bride, and an opportunity to shower the bride with gifts and good wishes. Like every other event on the planning timeline, this event will require a little planning. We are sharing a few tips to help you plan the bridal shower.
Timing the Bridal Shower
Where does the bridal shower fall on the wedding planning timeline? This question does not have the same answer for everyone. It depends on the length of the engagement. This event is usually sandwiched between other events. It is a safe rule to plan the bridal shower about three months prior to the wedding date. This celebration usually takes place a couple of months prior to the wedding to avoid holding too many events right before the wedding day. The time of day is another important question. While most bridal showers are held during the day, the time of day is something to plan with the bride.
The Bridal Shower Host
A party has at least one host. A bridal shower could have more. The maid of honor hosts this celebration with the bridesmaids, according to tradition. However, it is not uncommon for the mother of the bride, future mother-in-law or other loved ones to participate. You should determine who is hosting the bridal shower before setting the date, and set the date together. While the bride is not directly planning or hosting the party, the date will be coordinated and set with the bride. If someone other than the maid of honor is hosting the bridal shower, make sure others are aware to avoid two separate events. Unless this is a surprise, the bride is usually involved in some of the basic planning, such as the theme, date, location and activities.
Creating a Guest List
The guest list for the bridal shower is created by the bride. Just as with her wedding day, she 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.
Planning the Invitations
Bridal shower invitations are not as formal as the wedding invitations, but usually have decorative elements. This invitation is about 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
Games are the fun part of bridal showers. 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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