Bridal showers are a beloved tradition and give the bride time to enjoy the company of her closest family members and friends. 

However, it can be stressful time for first time hostesses. Keep this guide in mind while planning the special day. 

The hostess 
According to etiquette, the hostess of the bridal shower is typically the maid or matron of honor. Nowadays, however, the hostess can be one of many people, including a relative, co-worker or family friend. Although there is typically one hostess, bridesmaids, the bride’s mother or close relatives and friends can all get involved in the planning. The bride should never host or help pay for her own shower. 

When 
The bridal shower can be held six months to two weeks before the wedding date. Having the bridal shower months before the wedding ensures that there will be no last minute fittings, walk-throughs or other stressful appointments for the bride to have to work around. 

Where 
The bridal shower can be held at a number of places depending on the budget of the hostess and number of guests attending. Many showers are held at the hostess’ home or a country club, banquet hall or restaurant. Keep in mind that country clubs, banquet halls and outdoor events are typically better suited for parties with a large number of guests. 

Guest list 
The guest list for a bridal shower should be decided on by the hostess and the bride. If the shower is a surprise, it is a good idea to ask the mother of the bride or groom for input. All guests invited to the shower should be invited to the wedding, as well. Invite female members of the bride’s family, close friends, the groom’s mother and sisters, bridesmaids and attendants. 

Brides who are planning destination weddings may have larger guest lists, as most will invite a small number of people to the ceremony and reception. The wedding shower will give her a chance to spend time with those she may not see at her wedding. 

Invitations 
Invitations can be handmade or store bought. Buy card stock, ribbon and calligraphy pens to design unique invitations. Make sure to include the time and address of the event and explain who the shower is for. Include a R.S.V.P. date and person to contact, as well as the couple’s bridal registry information. 

Send invitations to guests at least a month in advance. Send invitations to out-of-town guests at least two months in advance to allow for travel time. Although they might be unable to attend, out-of-town guests will be thankful for invitations. 

Themes 
Theme-bridal showers are fun for all who attend and often makes planning the event easier. Choose a theme the bride will love –her favorite color, a hobby or place she vacations. Decorate and serve food to match the theme. 

Examples of themes include: 

• • Tea Party 
  • Garden
  • Colors
  • Paris 
  • New York City 
  • Hollywood/movie

Food 
Bridal showers are typically afternoon events and many hostesses serve finger sandwiches, fun appetizers and munchies. Serve a variety of sandwiches, pasta salad and soup if you want to give your guests options. 

Would you rather serve something hot? Try serving a dish that will feed a lot of people like pasta or a casserole. 

Dessert is always fun and there are a number of recipes to serve. While many hostesses serve cake, a popular modern alternative to cake is the cupcake. Save money by baking your own creations and decorate them with frosting flowers. 

Party games 
Party games are a fun and inexpensive way to keep your guests engaged during the shower. One favorite is the wedding dress game. Split the ladies into teams and give each group one roll of toilet paper. Instruct them to design a wedding dress in fifteen minutes for one member of their group. Have the models show off their gowns and let everyone vote on the winner. The group with the most votes wins. 

Party favors 
Favors are a fun keepsake that the bride and party guests are sure to hold on to. The more guests at the party, the more expensive favors can be, so it is important to stick to the budget. Do-it-yourself (DIY) favors are a great option for hostesses on a budget. 

Purchase large bags of pastel-colored mints or chocolate candies and put them in individual bags tied with ribbon to put on the tables. Small votive candles are also a great option. Decorate the candle holders and set one at each place setting. 

Cookies also make great favors. Bake sugar cookies in the shape of wedding and bridesmaid dresses, church bells, white shoes or a bouquet of flowers. Frost and wrap them in individual cellophane bags and tie with decorative ribbon. 

Budget and payment 
Don’t be afraid to set limits and a budget. Bridal showers, engagements parties and the like can be expensive for everyone involved. Do what you can afford. 

Hosting a bridal shower at home can save money. Another area to save money is on the food. By making the food at home, you keep from paying for tip and overpriced entrees. 

By: Lauren Finnegan