You know what they say, “April showers bring May flowers!” While we are hoping this remains true, we’ve got bridal showers on the brain. As we approach wedding season, it’s the perfect time to start putting together plans for the perfect bridal shower. Today we’re covering your most asked bridal shower questions so you can create the perfect event without a hitch!
How did bridal showers come about?
“Tracing its origin back to 16th century Holland, the bridal shower was initiated as an alternative to the dowry system. Friends and families gave small favors to the bride to help her begin her married life, whether she was too poor to afford a dowry or the father was opposed to the match.”
“In the United States, bridal showers became popular during the late Victorian Era. Ladies of the upper echelons of society held them to celebrate, gossip and exchange gifts, food and thoughts on the soon-to-be-wife’s new role. During these parties, women would often place small gifts inside a paper parasol and “shower” them over the bride-to-be.” (World Bride Magazine)
Obviously today we keep some of those same traditions, but the gifts are much more practical and centered around helping the new couple begin their lives together!
Who should host?
Traditionally, the maid of honor and bridesmaids are in charge or planning the bridal shower. It’s also popular for the bride or groom’s mother to host. But in this day and age, anyone can be in charge of showering the bride with love! More and more bride’s are receiving multiple showers – from friends to family to coworkers. Of course, before coordinating an entire shower, check with the bride to make sure something hasn’t already been planned or that she even wants a shower in the first place!
When should the bridal shower be?
The best time for a shower is around 1 or 2 months before the wedding. Of course, this should depend on what’s most convenient for the bride’s VIP’s. Make sure you pick a date that is convenient for those who are most important to your guest of honor.
Who should be invited?
If the shower is ladies only, the most important women in the bride’s life should be invited. This typically includes the bridesmaids, close friends, the bride’s mother, the groom’s mother, grandmothers, and so on and so forth. If you’re going with a Jack and Jill shower, the same guidelines apply – just extended to the men! What’s most important is to ONLY invite people who are also invited to the wedding!
What should we DO at a bridal shower?
The classic elements of a bridal shower are food, drinks, games, and gifts. However, in these modern times, there are no strict rules you must follow. Whatever you do, make sure to emulate the personality of the bride. Is she a laid-back boho bride? A backyard soiree with lawn games and a flower-crown making station would be right up her alley. Is she more classic and formal? A traditional bridal shower at her favorite restaurant with a signature cocktail might be perfect.
What do I, as the bride, need to do?
As the bride, your “to-do” list for the bridal shower should be fairly short. It’s an event in your honor after all!
- Provide a guest list. As stated above, make sure to only include those that are invited to the wedding.
- Make sure you’re registered. One of the main components of a bridal shower is the gifts, so make sure your registry is complete long before the date of the event!
- Let the host know of any “must-haves.” While the host should have most of the control over the shower, make sure you let them know if you have any strong preferences. Like if you’re uncomfortable opening gifts in front of everybody, or prefer not to serve alcohol.
