Who Gets Invited to a Bridal Shower
- 1. Your Bridal Party Invite bridesmaids, including the Maid of Honor, to your wedding shower. It is not necessary to invite groomsmen to the shower (the Groom, of course, is invited).
- 2. Close Family Members Any close family members are next on your list of who to invite to the shower.
- 3. Friends
Who is suppose to give a bridal shower?
While traditionally your Maid of Honor is supposed to be the one to host your bridal shower (with the help of your bridesmaids), these days it’s not uncommon for family members to contribute or even host the event, especially considering that bridal shower gifts are totally commonplace now.
What is the etiquette for a wedding shower?
Shower Etiquette for the Bride. The bride plays a relatively hands-off role in her bridal shower. The bride does not help plan the shower, as the shower is a sort of gift to the bride. Whoever plans the shower can choose to make it as much of a surprise as they wish. If the bride enjoys surprises, the whole shower can be a surprise, so long as ...
Who is suppose to throw a bridal shower?
Who throws the wedding shower for the bride — the host — is typically the mother of the bride or groom, the Maid of Honor / bridesmaids, or another female relative. In the past, etiquette dictated that the bride or groom’s mother (s) should not host, but that is an old and outdated rule. Today it is usually the mother of the bride or groom who throws the bridal shower.
What do you serve at a bridal shower?
You might give each guest any of the following:
- A small container with loose tea and a tea ball.
- A package of tiny cookies or candies.
- Handmade soaps.
- A seed packet with a trowel.
- A cookie cutter and homemade cookie mix in a decorated jar.
Does everyone get invited to the bridal shower?
Nope, it's not necessary to invite all the women on your wedding guest list. However, the opposite has to be true. It would be poor etiquette to invite someone to your shower and not to your wedding.
What is proper etiquette for bridal shower invitations?
Ideally, the invitations should be mailed out four to six weeks before the bridal shower, either by post or email. Make sure to include the bride's name, the date, the time, the location, registry information, a way to RSVP, and the names of whoever is hosting.
How many people do you invite to bridal shower?
between 15-50 peopleHow many people should you invite to a bridal shower? The typical shower is between 15-50 people. Definitely ask the bride and the mother of the bride for a list of guests who are a must.
Is the mother of the bride invited to all showers?
Guests include close female friends and near relatives of the bride. The Mother of the Bride only attends the bridal shower if the bride-to-be specifically invites her. She may want only younger women present. Wedding etiquette has become very personal.
Do you invite your mother in law to bridal shower?
It's also pretty common today that brides have more than one shower for various reasons. Hosts of the different showers should be sure to consult each other on dates and guest lists so there isn't any overlap. It is common for Bridesmaids, mom and mother-in-laws to be invited to all showers.
Is it OK to invite someone to bridal shower but not wedding?
Etiquette says that you can't invite someone to your bridal shower (and expect them to give a gift) but not invite them to the wedding. It's a major faux pas.
What's the point of a bridal shower?
A bridal shower is a party specifically for the bride. No men allowed. The main purpose of the party is for all your lady friends to come over (or go out to a restaurant or some other destination), and shower you (Mrs. Bride To Be) with gifts in anticipation for your new life as a married woman.
How long do bridal showers last?
2-4 hoursBridal showers typically last 2-4 hours and are not considered an all-day event. Although, depending on the type of shower you are hosting the time can vary. Most showers will either take place in the morning and serve as a brunch, or in the afternoon served with lunch or finger foods.
Is it rude to not go to a bridal shower?
Remember, it doesn't break any etiquette rules to not attend a bridal shower or bachelorette party but still attend the wedding, provided that you RSVP separately for each.
Does the groom's mother attend the bridal shower?
Bridal showers are typically thrown by the bride's side of the family or the bridal party. The mother of the groom, along with the groom's side of the family, are typically also invited to the bridal shower. Couples showers are becoming more popular, though it's also common for the groom to not attend these events.
What does the mother of the bride do for the bridal shower?
Typically, the mother of the bride or the maid of honor hosts the shower, so final decisions should be left up to them—taking the bride's preferences into consideration, of course.
What does mother of the bride pay for?
Traditionally speaking, though, the bride's family pays for the bulk of the wedding—venue, reception, photographer, flowers, etc. As such, the mother of the bride is typically more 'in charge' of these things (along with the bride, of course) than the mother of the groom is.
How far in advance should bridal shower invitations be sent?
between six and eight weeksWhen should I send bridal shower invitations? Bridal shower invitations should go out between six and eight weeks before the event, depending on how many out-of-towners are on the list. Make sure guests RSVP to one person (the maid of honor, for example) to keep numbers organized.
How far in advance should shower invitations be sent out?
If many guests will be local, aim to send the invites four to six weeks before the event. A bridal shower involving many out-of-towners, on the other hand, requires more advanced notice. Six or eight weeks should be sufficient time for long-distance guests to make transportation and lodging arrangements.
What is the proper way to address a shower invitation?
When addressing a bridal shower invitation, you want to be as formal as possible. You should write the recipients full first and last name. You want to avoid any abbreviations or nick names. To ensure this works, make sure that you have an adequate sized envelope that you will be able to fit all of the information.
Do you put your maiden name on bridal shower invites?
For this invitation, we're talking about a bridal shower. This is also where you would state a bridal shower theme such as a Kitchen Bridal Shower or Bridal Tea Party. List the bride's first and last name. Middle names are not necessary for bridal shower invitations unless you prefer more formal invitation wording.
How to invite friends to a bridal shower?
When it comes to inviting friends, it may be hard to narrow down your list, but the shower really is for your nearest and dearest. Invite your bridal party, of course, and close family and friends. Do not feel obligated to invite significant others or friends of your sisters unless you truly have a close relationship with them. ...
What to do if you have a shower hosted by your aunt?
If you're having a shower hosted by bridesmaids, consider keeping that list to friends only , while the shower hosted by your aunts can include extended family and your mom's close friends. If your in-laws are hosting a shower, tip the balance towards their side, and keep your list to immediate family.
Can you have more than one person at a shower?
Sometimes, more than one person wants to throw you a shower—and generally speaking, that's totally okay . But be sure to make each guest list unique based on the host or hostess. If you're having a shower hosted by bridesmaids, consider keeping that list to friends only, while the shower hosted by your aunts can include extended family and your mom's close friends. If your in-laws are hosting a shower, tip the balance towards their side, and keep your list to immediate family.
Can you invite someone who isn't invited to a wedding?
Don't Invite Anyone Who Isn't Invited to the Wedding. This may seem obvious, but inviting people who aren't invited to the wedding is inappropriate. It will likely offend them and it will look like you're pandering for gifts. The only exception is an office bridal shower, where coworkers want to impart well wishes to the bride.
Who can you invite to a wedding shower?
Invite bridesmaids, including the Maid of Honor, to your wedding shower.
Can you go wrong with a bridal shower?
You can’t go wrong with either size of your celebration. However, it is important to know who is supposed to be invited to the bridal shower before you finalize that guest list.
Do bridal shower invitations need to reflect wedding?
The invitations you send for the bridal shower don’t necessarily need to reflect the wedding, its colors, or its theme. Have fun with it! For more tips, read: 7 Things Every Bridal Shower Must Have (CHECKLIST).
Should You Invite Someone To The Bridal Shower Who Is Not Coming To The Wedding?
According to etiquette, if a guest has already told you they cannot attend the wedding, it is OK to not invite them to the bridal shower. It really depends on your relationship with the person and if you think they’d like to be included. However, etiquette-wise, it looks more like a gift grab, so we recommend not extending an invitation.
Why is planning a bridal shower fun?
Why? Because this is probably the only wedding-related occasion when all you'll really be asked to do is decide what to wear and who to invite.
Who makes up the majority of the guests?
A bridal shower guest list will be mostly the bride's closest friends and family. If the groom's mom is helping with the organizing, she may ask to invite the groom's sisters and aunties, so you can count on including the groom's close family too.
Why do people send invitations to friends?
They're unlikely to see this as a ploy for gifts, but rather a gesture meant to make them feel loved and involved.
Do you include groom's friends in a wedding?
If you're also close with the groom's female friends, it's customary to include them.
Is it necessary to invite all women to a wedding?
Nope, it's not necessary to invite all the women on your wedding guest list. However, the opposite has to be true. It would be poor etiquette to invite someone to your shower and not to your wedding.
Bride should check guest list- for bridal shower
It would be a good idea to create a rough draft of the guest list and have the bride review it. That way she is not doing all the work. The bridal shower should be less work for the bride as possible. It is key that she sees the guest list tom verify and make sure no essential people are missing form the guest list
Jack and Jill Shower Guest List
If it is a Jack and Jill wedding shower, men are also invited. Jack and jill wedding showers are becoming more popular and typically larger parties. In this case the groomsmen and other close male friends should be invited.
How to host a bridal shower?
Now that we've addressed the big "who throws the bridal shower" question, we also want to answer an important follow-up: What exactly does a bridal shower host or hosts do? Here's quick rundown of bridal shower host responsibilities : 1 Create a budget. 2 Set a bridal shower date. 3 Decide on the number of guests and create a bridal shower guest list. 4 Choose a venue. 5 Decide on a bridal shower theme. 6 Send out the invitations (be sure to note the couple's wedding registry information so guests can buy gifts) 7 Plan the menu. 8 Purchase or DIY bridal shower decorations and favors. 9 Settle on bridal shower games. 10 Create a music playlist. 11 Collect RSVPs. 12 Set up the venue with an area for gifts, seating, etc. 13 Create a ribbon bouquet during the event. 14 Make toasts and speeches to the guest of honor.
How much does a bridesmaid spend on a bridal shower?
Splitting up tasks and expenses can help make the planning process somewhat less stressful and defray some of the costs—the average bridesmaid spends $151 on hosting a bridal shower, and that doesn't include the gift, which usually runs about $88 ( seriously! ).
Can you ask someone to host a bridal shower?
Usually someone will volunteer to host your bridal shower pretty early on, and it’s not-ideal etiquette to directly ask someone to host. Once the official bridal shower hostesses or hosts have been chosen, that person or group of people will work to plan every aspect of your shower—with your input, of course—and likely take on most of the expenses, ...
Can bridesmaids plan a bridal shower?
Having your bridesmaids plan your bridal shower as a group works particularly well if most of your bridal party lives in the same city or town—planning a bridal shower from afar can be a bit more complicated, but still totally doable. And if you're going for a coed wedding shower or a shower that celebrates both to-be-weds, ...
Can you have two bridal showers with your in-laws?
If you and your future spouse have different hometowns, you might learn that friends of your in-laws want to throw you a bridal shower in your in-laws’ city or town. Having two bridal showers is totally okay, and it’s actually a nice way for your in-laws’ friends to welcome you into their crew.
Is it okay to have family friends host a bridal shower?
While having family friends host your bridal shower isn’t necessarily “tradition,” it’s still totally okay from an etiquette perspective. And if these are family friends you’ve known since childhood, they’ll likely be thrilled to plan this special occasion for you.
Who gets invited to a bridal shower?
As with other pre-wedding events, the guest list should be limited to people who are also invited to the wedding. "You can invite whomever you would like from the wedding guest list. Keep the guest list small and manageable, don’t have too many showers, and don’t invite the same people to multiple showers," says Gottsman. "If someone is not invited to the wedding, they should not be invited to the shower."
What Is a Bridal Shower?
A bridal shower is a daytime event in celebration of the bride's upcoming marriage. Traditionally, it's an opportunity for guests to give the couple gifts for the home.
When should bridal shower invitations be mailed out?
Ideally, the invitations should be mailed out four to six weeks before the bridal shower, either by post or email. Make sure to include the bride's name, the date, the time, the location, registry information, a way to RSVP, and the names of whoever is hosting.
Where should you throw a bridal shower?
If the bride still lives relatively close to home, the shower can be held in her hometown. Does she live in another state? It may still be more convenient for the bride to travel to her shower if most of the guests live locally, instead of asking the entire guest list to hop on an airplane. The specific location depends on the type of shower and the host's budget. It could be in a friend or family member's home or backyard, at a local restaurant, or somewhere more specific if the shower has a theme (such as a cooking school or a wine-tasting room).
Should a bridal shower have a theme?
It doesn't have to, but it's a fun way to add some personality to the party. A theme could be as simple as cohesive, rustic décor, or you could go all out with a spa day. Some of our favorite themes include a bridal tea party, a Disney-themed shower, or a Parisian-influenced affair.
Does the bride need a registry for a bridal shower?
Not necessarily . The actual wedding registry can also function as a bridal shower registry. If, however, it's a lingerie shower, that would require a separate registry should the bride want to register for specific lingerie. As a bridal shower guest, it is in good etiquette to purchase a shower gift off the registry.
How to dress for a bridal shower?
A bridal shower can be as formal or casual as you want it to be, but it's best to at least include some sort of guide in the invitation. "There's not one particular dress code," says Gottsman. "But it's always better the dress up than down." If there's no indication of the event's formality, it may be more comfortable to show up overdressed than underdressed. If cohesion in your shower photos is important to you, it's a good idea to think about what the guests will be wearing and make a note somewhere within the invitation.
Who decides who to invite to a bridal shower?
Ultimately, the wedding party host decides who makes the bridal shower guest list. However, the couple’s input is necessary. Be sure to sync up with your shower host ahead of sending out invites to make sure you’re on the same page.
Who should be first on the guest list for a wedding shower?
The bride is the star of the show, so all of her friends should be first on the guest list, this of course includes the bridesmaid. This may or may not extend past the bridal party. If some of the bride’s close pals are not members of the wedding party, they too deserve an invite—and are likely hoping for one! Having their presence will only enhance the celebration factor and make the wedding shower games and activities all the more fun.
Can you invite only a handful of friends to a bridal shower?
It’s your shower, but there’s no reason to lay it thick around people who can’ t come.
Do you have to invite the wedding party to a shower?
Since the wedding shower is usually a more intimate celebration in honor of the upcoming nuptials, it’s imperative that the wedding party itself be invited. Oftentimes, the wedding party is involved in the actual planning of the wedding shower so their invitation is almost assumed (although be sure to send out a physical invite, as well.) ...
Is it bad to have a wedding shower?
You shouldn't feel bad about keeping your wedding shower intimate. In fact, the host or hostess may choose to narrow down their list to only the nearest and dearest people in their life and, in the case of a joint coed shower, their partner's life. Many of the popular games and wedding shower traditions wouldn’t lend well to a much larger guest list. The intimacy of a wedding shower allows that.
Can you invite coworkers to lunch?
Only invite those coworkers that you consider friends and maybe get lunch with regularly or even occasionally hang out with outside the office. If you do plan to invite only a handful of work friends and don’t intend to extend an invite to a larger group, be considerate of that.
Do you have to invite everyone to a wedding shower?
You don't invite everyone, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you send out wedding shower invitations. Here's everything you need to know about who to invite to your wedding shower. You probably have a good idea of who you’ll invite to your wedding. However, that’s not the only event that comes along on the wedding planning journey.
Who Do You Invite to a Wedding Shower?
The number one rule when it comes to wedding shower guest list etiquette: You should only invite people who are also invited to the wedding. Of course, that doesn't mean you have to invite everyone on the couple's wedding guest list —showers are typically much more intimate.
Who takes the lead at a bridal shower?
According to bridal shower etiquette, the host takes the lead. That said, it's definitely a good idea to liaise with the guest (s) of honor to make sure you're heading in the right direction with the theme and the guest list.
What to include in wedding shower invitations?
Whether you're sending wedding shower invites, engagement party invitations, bach party invites or whatever, the date, time and location should always be included. It's also important to name the guest (or guests) of honor and the event type—in this case, you could go with "bridal shower," "wedding shower" or "couple's shower." The last thing you'll absolutely want to include is the host's name and contact information for RSVPs. That way, guests can easily let you know if they're coming. Once you've got the basics down, feel free to add other information such as the theme, the dress code, the couple's registry details or their wedding website.
Do bridal shower invitations have to be handwritten?
Good news: unlike thank-you cards, bridal shower invitations don't have to be handwritten. And even if you do decide to write invitations or address envelopes by hand, there's no need to go overboard—you can leave the fancy calligraphy for the wedding invitations.
Do you need RSVP cards for a wedding shower?
RSVP cards aren't really necessary for wedding showers. Instead, the host should provide their contact details on the invite (think: a phone number or email address) instructing guests to RSVP there. If you need guests' responses by a certain date, it's best to put that information on the invitation too. We suggest setting a date at least two weeks before the event so you have time to finalize any last-minute details. You could also request that people respond with "regrets only." That way, you'll only receive messages from those politely declining the invite (and hopefully escape a cluttered inbox while you're at it).
Can you edit the wording of a bridal shower invitation?
If you go with a service like The Knot Invitations, you'll be able to easily edit the wording so it suits the shower you're planning. Note that wording will be a little different depending on the type of event. For example, a couple's shower in honor of both soonlyweds will require a slightly different approach than traditional bridal shower invites. Finally, when it comes to addressing the envelopes, the formality should be similar to the couple's wedding invitations.
Can you invite out of town guests to a bridal shower?
Finally, you're also welcome to invite out-of-town guests to the bridal shower (just make sure to give them plenty of notice). If the guest list is starting to feel a little long, consider having more than one shower to accommodate different guests in different locations. One could be hosted by bridesmaids for close friends of the bride only, while another could be hosted by the bride's future MIL that's attended by family.
