The wedding shower or bridal shower is an important part of the wedding process. It not only gives the bride and her close friends a chance to get together before the wedding but also allows those who are close to the groom to learn more about the bride and her bridesmaids. However, before planning for the actual shower events shower invitations need to be sent out. Here are some guidelines to help you with the process. When to Send out Bridal Shower Invitations Usually you would send out wedding shower invitations about 4 weeks beforehand. You could ask for reply about two weeks before the event if needed. This provides plenty of time for guests to reserve the date of the event without being notified too far in advance. What to Send and Include The obvious things are the date, time, and location of the shower and the name of the host. If you are having a special theme shower, do not forget to include special instructions so the guests can bring any required items to the shower. Many guests appreciate if the location at which the bride and groom are registered or a suggested list of gifts for the bride is also included with the invitation. Often we would recommend written directions or including a map with the invitations. Lastly, be sure to include a phone number to call in case people get lost on their way to the shower. Who is Invited The person or people hosting the shower should do the inviting with the bride's assistance. A good place to start is the bride and groom's wedding invitation list. If at all possible, do not invite anyone to the shower that will not also be invited to the wedding. Traditionally, you are supposed to invite only people who personally know the bride. However, it is not uncommon for the mother and close family or friends of the fiancé to be invited so they can get to know the bride better and be included in the festivities. Who should Host the Shower Usually the maid of honour and bridesmaids would host the shower. Today, a bridal shower is sometimes hosted by very close friends of the bride. The mother of the bride should never host the shower, but she can help with the arrangements or preparation of the food, if the shower is hosted at someone's home. Who should Receive an Invitation In general, the rule is one invitation per person. So if you are inviting roommates or people living at the same address, then each should receive their own invitation. If men are invited then one invitation would be sent per couple. Wedding Shower Invitation Themes A popular bridal shower theme is the “Bathrobe and slippers” theme. The guests get together and shower the bride with gifts meant to help her relax and unwind before the big day. Send out invitations for the shower with a picture of a bathrobe and slippers on it to set the tone. The invitation should instruct the guests to bring items suited to the purpose, such as bath products, gift certificates to a spa or salon, and yoga lessons. Thank you Cards Thank you cards should be written, by the bride, as soon after the shower as possible, and most certainly before the wedding. The thank you cards should be signed using the bride’s maiden name. During the shower, a bridesmaid should keep track of gifts given by guest while opening the presents so they may be properly thanked for the item they purchased for the bride. For more information or ideas please visit . |