Bridal Showers

Bridal showers are traditional, but optional. If you do decide to have a bridal shower have a look at the following:

• A bridal shower is… a party for the bride, where she is "showered" with gifts for her new home. Games are usually played at bridal showers. Although it can be as formal as you like, it is usually quite informal.
• The hostess is… usually the maid/matron of honour, but sometimes also the bridesmaids.
• Costs… are paid by the hostess/hostesses, i.e. the maid/matron of honour and/or the bridesmaids.
• Those to be invited… are all female friends and relatives who are also invited to the wedding.
• It can be held whenever… you want. In terms of the time of the day, the bridal shower can be held whenever you want. Breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea or dinner… whatever you prefer. In terms of date, bridal showers are usually held no later than six months before the wedding.
• The location… can be wherever you want, although it should reflect the formality of the shower. For a traditionally informal bridal shower, consider having a picnic in a park or a barbeque in someone's garden. For a formal bridal shower you can have dinner at a restaurant or go on a cruise. Wherever you and your guests prefer.
• Gifts… are given to the bride. She is "showered" with gifts, hence the term "bridal shower"… Traditionally, presents include household items for the new home. If a gift registry is used, the invitations should include details.
• Entertainment… is a big part of a bridal shower. For examples of bridal shower games, click on Bridal Shower Games.
• Food and drinks… must be served at a bridal shower. If it is held at someone's home, it depends on what type of shower it is, i.e. what time of the day and formality. Whatever the time of the day and formality, though, always have a bridal shower cake, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and champagne. Examples of food to serve:
  - Brunch: fresh fruit, omelettes, toasts, biscuits, muffins, bagels, yoghurt, etc.
  - Lunch: finger sandwiches, spring rolls, salads, small meat pies and sausage rolls, etc.
  - Early afternoon: hors d'oeuvres, gourmet cookies, scones, sweet bread, etc.
  - Dinner: main course, side dishes, salad, etc.
  - Dessert shower: brownies, cheesecake, profiteroles and all other sorts of desserts, and tea and coffee.

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