A guide to Hosting a Bridal Shower

So, one of your closest friends is getting married and you have been left with the job of hosting a bridal shower. It can be a scary prospect particularly as you want the bride to have a special bridal shower. There is a lot of planning for a bridal shower, but it does not need to be hard work. This article will look at the basics of planning a bridal shower and hopefully give you a few ideas for that special party.

Traditionally it is not customary for the bride’s mother, sister or relative to throw a bridal shower as it is considered rude for family members to ask for gifts. However, times have changed and with more and more brides choosing their sisters or other close female relatives as maids of honor this tradition has slowly died away.

About eight or nine months before the bride is due to get married sit down with the bride to discuss what dates work best. Bridal showers tend to be held a month or two before the wedding. Once a date is set let the bridal shower party guests know the date well in advance so as many people can attend as possible.

Whilst it is the maid of honor’s job to organise the bridal shower there are other roles that other members of the wedding party can fill. Bridesmaids can also get involved in the organizing and running of the bridal shower. If finances are particularly difficult then the Bridesmaids should also be asked to share the costs of the bridal shower as well. Delegation is key to a successful bridal shower, delegate the jobs of food, decorations and invites to different bridesmaids to lessen your load.

Location, location, location. Of course this bit depends very much on budget but even the cheapest venue can be made to look superb and there is definitely nothing wrong with hosting a bridal shower at home. Things to consider are the number of people you have invited. Small parties can be accommodated in someone’s home; but larger parties do much better at a bigger venue. Again, the choice of location must be within the budget and don’t forget to shop around.

There are literally thousands of bridal shower themes to choose from and one of the main benefits of having a bridal shower theme is that everything else; from food to invitations and decorations can be built around the theme. In order to narrow down the choices of themes available talk to the bride to discuss what sort of ideas she is keen on, and more importantly, what she definitely does not want. Once the theme is chosen you can then organize the invitations, food and decorations to fit that theme.

Bridal Shower Favors are little gifts that each guest can take home with them. They don’t need to be expensive, just something that will remind the guests of the party. Candles, place holders and other small items all make great bridal shower favours.

Hosting and planning a bridal shower does take a lot of planning but by preparing well in advance of the shower, and talking to the bride about her ideas for a shower; the whole planning and hosting of the party should be a lot easier. Most importantly, don't be afraid to ask your bridesmaids for a helping hand.