A bridal shower is a fun and exciting day prior to the wedding ceremony where the bride's friends, family, relatives, and attendants literally "shower" her with gifts, games, and good cheer.
But you can't invite everyone.
Think of the cost to the poor bridesmaids who put it together.
You also don't want to leave off anyone important or connected to the wedding party.
The best rule of thumb is to invite women from both sides of the family-and friends-who are important to the bride.
Here are suggestions for family members and relatives to invite to your bridal shower.
- Mother of the bride - Mother of the groom - Step-mother (if any) of the bride - Step-mother (if any) of the groom - Grandmother(s) of the bride - Grandmother(s) of the groom - Sister(s) of the bride - Sister(s) of the groom - Niece(s) of the bride - Niece(s) of the groom - Aunt(s) of the bride - Aunt(s) of the groom - Close cousin(s) of the bride - Bridesmaids - Flower girl(s) - Close co-worker(s) of the bride - Close neighbor(s) of the bride - Close neighbor(s) of the groom - Any other close family member - Anyone involved in the bride's upbringing General rule of thumb is to keep the bridal shower small and intimate.
Thirty attendees would most likely be the max.
Traditionally, bridesmaids plan and pay for the party and most people who come are usually invited to the wedding, as well.
The groom's mother and female relatives should feel special, as well.
Include them in special way by asking them to write out family recipes on index cards and then present them to the bride.
She will be happy to carry on the groom's family traditions.
Also, ask the groom's relatives to write a note giving advice to the new bride.
This can be private or something about the groom only his family is privy too, like "he still likes chocolate milk" or "he likes his boxer shorts folded.
" The bride is sure to appreciate these personalized pearls of wisdom from the women who not only know the groom best, but watched him grow from a boy into a man.
If possible, have a special favor from the party just for the groom's side of the family.
This will let them know that even though the day is all about the bride, it wouldn't be possible without the groom who asked her to marry him.
Perhaps have a small framed photo of the couple, or a bottle of wine commemorating the wedding date.
No matter what you pick, the groom's relatives will appreciate the thought and effort.
And so will the bride.
Overall, remember the day is all about the bride and letting her know how much people care about her and love her.
Make it a wonderfully special day she'll remember always.