Bridal Shower Etiquette

Planning a bridal shower? Wondering when to send the invitations, who should be invited and should you play games? Here’s everything you need to know about bridal shower etiquette.

What is a bridal shower?

Bridal shower is a celebration in honor of the bride-to-be. It happens before the wedding. It’s an opportunity for guests to shower the future bride with gifts that will help her to set up her new home.

Who should host?

Bridal shower is usually hosted by the mother of the bride, mother of the groom or the bridesmaids.

Who should be invited?

You should invite only the people who are also invited to the wedding. This usually includes the bridesmaids, mothers and sisters of the bride and groom, aunts, grandmothers and close female relatives. Other female friends are also often invited. If it’s a surprise bridal shower, mother of the bride and maid of honor should come up with the guest list. Otherwise, bride-to-be should assist with the guest list.

When to hold the bridal shower?

You should hold the bridal shower between 3 months and 2 weeks before the wedding day.

When to mail the invitations?

You should mail the invitations 4-6 weeks before the bridal shower. Make sure to include all the important details: name of the bride, date, time, RSVP info and registry.

Where to hold the bridal shower?

If the bride-to-be lives relatively close to the home, bridal shower should be held in her hometown. If she lives in another state, it may still be more convenient for her to travel to the shower, if most of her guests live locally. The type of shower and the budget will determine the specific location. It may be a home or a backyard of a close friend or a family member, a restaurant or even a wine tasting room.

What happens at a bridal shower?

Food, drinks, games and gifts. Some of the most popular games to play are: Bridal bingo, Who knows bride best, Over or under, Advice for the bride. You can also plan an activity-oriented bridal shower, like a cooking class or a spa day.

Should the bride have a registry for bridal shower?

It’s not necessary. The actual wedding registry can also serve as the bridal shower registry. But, it’s perfectly fine for the bride to have two separate registries – one for the wedding and one for the bridal shower.

What are your thoughts on bridal shower etiquette?

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