by Ashley Burr

Created on: October 29, 2008

So, in theory, planning a bridal shower should be fairly simple right? I mean, when we break it all down, there is one overriding and ultimate goal of a bridal shower: to shower the bride with gifts that celebrate her forthcoming marriage. Of course, there is the element of hosting a fun party, and good girl time, and good food, hopefully entertaining games, chic invitations, and adorable memorable favors. Since I am always one to side with practicality instead of extravagance, here are some tips on planning a bridal shower that honors the bride but doesn't rival the actual wedding in cost.

-Food: Ask the close friends who will be attending to help with a potluck style luncheon. Hold it outside, weather permitting, so that the feel is automatically more casual. Serve water with lemon in pretty glass pitchers. Or, do an evening event where only light snacks and dessert are served. Serve flower decorated wedding cake cookies in anticipation of the big event.

-Invitations: Do it yourself. Again, don't try and outdo the bride's actual wedding. Get a bunch of close friends together and spend an hour addressing a template card. Or, send an e-vite invitation. These are free, and can be darling if you do them right. You have the ease and convenience of receiving responses via email and the low budget practicality that everyone can appreciate.

-Favors: This is where you might want to try and spend a little money. Presumably, the favor really represents something that your guests all know about the bride. If they are there to celebrate the upcoming event, then they should definitely be familiar with her personality and likes. So spend some time and perhaps money to find a perfect bridal shower favor.

Unlike the reception, a bridal shower is an opportunity for the guests to really interact with the bride and connect with her on a personal level to wish her well before the big day. In many cases, it marks the beginning of a whole host of wedding festivities that ultimately culminate in the wedding itself.
So the food is important, the decorations are nice, but the most important thing is that you provide an atmosphere where the women that are most important to the bride can really honor her and wish her well. And if you are trying to limit your spending while creating that type of integral unity, spend your time and money on finding a uniquely personal favor that everyone can take home.

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