Celebrating Love, Laughter, and New Trends
Bridal showers are a pre-wedding tradition that dates back centuries and brings together close friends and family to celebrate the bride-to-be (or brides-to-be!). Way back in ancient times (thankfully!), these were either a send off of the bride to the groom complete with a dowry for the groom’s family or a purification ritual of the bride. Thank goodness for modern times! Today, these events are all about love, laughter, and showering the soon-to-be-weds with good wishes and a little pampering. Let’s take a look at the who, what, and how of bridal showers, and we’ll also dive into some fresh and fun trends.
Who Hosts Bridal Showers?
Bridal showers are typically hosted by the bridesmaids, close friends, or family members of the bride. However, in modern times, it’s not unusual for the bride herself or the couple to take the reins in planning their own shower. Couples showers that include the entire wedding party can be a fun way to introduce everyone before the big day.
Who Attends Bridal Showers?
Traditionally, bridal showers were exclusively attended by female friends and family members of the bride. But times have changed, and the guest list can be as diverse as you want it to be. It’s not uncommon to have mixed-gender bridal showers these days, where the groom and his friends also join in the fun. The guest list can include friends and family members from both sides.
New Trends in Bridal Showers:
Themed Bridal Showers: Instead of the traditional “tea party” style, themed bridal showers are becoming increasingly popular. Whether it’s a beach-themed bash, a retro 80s celebration, or a movie night, a unique theme can add a lot of fun to the event.
Virtual Bridal Showers: In our digital age, virtual bridal showers have gained popularity, especially for those with friends and family spread out across the globe. These events can include fun online games, virtual toasts, and even surprise deliveries to the bride’s doorstep.
Eco-Friendly Showers: Many couples are opting for eco-friendly bridal showers by using sustainable decor, serving organic food, and providing reusable or biodegradable party favors. My tree-hugger daughter loved this for her showers!
Crafty DIY Showers: DIY bridal showers are all about getting creative. Guests can enjoy crafting activities, such as making custom decorations or personalized gifts for the bride.
Pitfalls to Avoid
Overwhelming the Couple: The bridal shower should be a fun and enjoyable experience for the bride, not a source of stress. Avoid planning a shower that is too elaborate or demanding, especially if the couple have a busy schedule. Keep her preferences and comfort in mind throughout the planning process.
Excessive Spending: While you want to host a special event, it’s essential to be mindful of the budget. Overspending on the shower can create financial strain for the hosts and put unnecessary pressure on guests. Set a reasonable budget and stick to it.
Excluding Key People: Ensure that the guest list is comprehensive and includes all the important people in the couple’s life. Excluding close friends or family members can lead to hurt feelings. Be inclusive and consider diverse backgrounds, including those of same-sex couples.
Inappropriate Games or Activities: Be cautious about the games and activities you choose. Avoid games that may embarrass the couple or guests, as well as anything that could be considered offensive or overly personal. Keep the tone light and respectful.
Ignoring the Couple’s Wishes: The bridal shower should reflect the preferences and personalities of the couple. Avoid planning an event that doesn’t align with their tastes or values. Always consult with the couple to ensure their input is considered in the planning process.
Last-Minute Planning: Procrastination can lead to rushed decisions and a less-than-ideal event. Start planning well in advance to secure the venue, gather supplies, and send out invitations with ample notice. Also, if you are part of the planning committee, don’t agree to tasks you know you won’t be able to complete. This will leave your co-hosts scrambling at the last minute. There’s no shame in saying “no” if you are asked to do something but you know you won’t have time to do it!
Overloading the Schedule: While it’s great to have a few activities or games planned, don’t pack the schedule too tightly. Allow for time to socialize, enjoy the company, and savor the moments. Rushing from one activity to another can be exhausting. Also, be respectful of peoples’ time. I attended a shower that was a 2 hour drive away on a Sunday afternoon. After 4 hours, I left to start my drive back home and they had yet to start opening gifts.
Gift-Centric Focus: While gifts are often a part of bridal showers, avoid making the event solely about the presents. The primary focus should be celebrating the upcoming marriage and enjoying the company of loved ones. Balance gift-giving with other meaningful activities.
Forgetting to Say Thanks: Don’t forget to express your gratitude to guests and those who helped organize the shower. Sending thank-you notes or tokens of appreciation to attendees is a thoughtful gesture that shows your appreciation for their presence and contributions.
Bridal showers are all about celebrating love, and they’ve evolved to be as unique as the couples they honor. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and the most important thing is to make the event a reflection of the couple’s personalities and preferences. So whether you’re planning a traditional shower, an eco-conscious gathering, or a themed extravaganza, don’t forget to keep it simple, light, and above all, fun. After all, love is something to celebrate, and that’s what bridal showers are all about.
Remember, less is more
~ Melissa
