If you're planning a bridal shower - or are the bride and can have some influence on the one about to be thrown for you - here are some planning tips to keep in mind:
- Guests expect shower games as part of the entertainment. Yes, sometimes they can be cheesy but sometimes cheesy can be fun. Don't be afraid to make up your own game or put a new twist on an old favorite like Who knows the bride or groom best? and The Newlywed Game.
- Guests expect that the bride will open her gifts at the shower. If there are more than 25 gifts the bridesmaids should form an assembly line to help speed up the process - unwrap, keep track of who gave what, repackage, trash detail and ribbon bouquet.
- Speaking of ribbon bouquets. Forget the ribbon hat and make the bride a ribbon bouquet that she can then use at her rehearsal. Bring extra ribbons, paper plates, scissors, tape and a stapler with staples to create the bouquet. And don't forget to pose for a picture with the bride!
- Favors are usually something that guests can't really use but they don't have to be. Think about giving guests something they can really use like a mug, magnet, notepad or monogrammed handkerchief.
