by Allison Tannery

Created on: June 13, 2008

A Few Ideal Ideas for Bridal Showers

The summer prior to our wedding was typically Georgia hot. Steamy, and asphyxiating, just like the deep south can be. I longed for the fall date our day would finally come. Even the wonder of bridal gown fittings, and veil selections seemed to wilt in the Indian summer.

But a few dear friends and family member helped the time to keep trudging on, with beautiful and brilliantly themed showers.

In July, we were given a party all about Texas (as that's from where my now husband hails). The cake, a Texas flag. The food, Tex-mex. The gifts? All about the outdoors and barbecue. And we all wore cowboy boots. Drinks? Margaritas, or cold beer. If one of you, the bride or groom, is particularly fond of your heritage, use it to celebrate your new life to come. Tell those people who ask, "what can I do', what would really mean something to you. Do you have a favorite sports team? Or are you a particularly avid alumni? I once did a fantastic chocolate cake covered in confection yellow jackets (Georgia Tech?).

Lingerie parties are somewhat passe', but for the all ADULT girls only crowd, sensual gifts parties are creative. Scented candles, body and bath oils, even fun private costume ideas, and a variety of toys (if you know the bride well enough to know she'd be comfortable with the idea) make an evening you'll leave with your face hurting and sides split from laughter. One I attended included shirtless young men, in black suit pants and bow ties, serving cocktails from silver platters. Good note here: have athletic men, not the ones who've been downing a six pack a night. As you can imagine, it makes a difference. There are organized companies now that host these kinds of parties, if you are at a loss for how to pull it all together. A hostess will come to the home, set up samples and explain everything. Be brave. This is not for the overly modest, or faint of heart. Maybe not the place for your Great Aunt Mae. Or maybe, it is. At the end of the evening, you'll place orders. You can do this together for the bride, according to her wishes. Hello, honeymoon.

Another party was all about the Holidays. We were young marrieds-to-be. At 22, we had no storehouse of party paraphernalia. This shower included all major holidays, from Christmas to Halloween, and gave us countless fun things to use. Tree ornaments, black cat candle holders, fall place mats and napkins...we even personalized Easter baskets, a pair of stockings, and serving platters to

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