The wedding shower is a popular way to give a bride well wishes from family and friends. A female friend or relative typically gives a wedding shower prior to the big day.
When you are invited to a wedding shower, it is customary to bring a gift that represents your personal relationship to the bride. If the wedding shower has a theme, you will want to come up with a suitable wedding shower gift idea that coincides with the theme. This article will help answer all your wedding shower frequently asked questions and may help inspire you to come up with the perfect wedding shower gift idea!
Does a shower have to have a theme? No, a shower does not have to have a theme. Today, you will find many hosts choose a theme because it is helpful for guests to come up with wedding shower gift ideas. In addition, the theme can relate to a specific need or interest of the couple. For example, if the couple enjoys cooking and entertaining, the shower may have a 'stock the kitchen' theme.
I’ve been invited to my friend’s bridal shower and her wedding – do I need to give a separate gift for each occasion? Yes, if you are planning to attend both events it is customary to give a gift for each.
I have been invited to a shower but unfortunately, I cannot attend. Should I still send a gift? Etiquette does not require you to send a gift. However, if you are close friends with the people getting married, it would be a nice gesture to send a gift.
Who should be invited to wedding shower? In theory, anyone who is on the wedding guest list can be invited to a shower. However, many showers are seen as intimate events that include only the bride’s closest friends and relatives. Of course, the exception would be a shower hosted by coworkers, as they might not all be attending the wedding but would like to give the bride a pre-wedding celebration. Generally, showers are limited to between 20 and 40 people.
I am hosting a shower, what information is necessary to include on the invitations? It is important to include all pertinent information such as:
Hostess name and phone number
Who the shower is for
Theme, if applicable (if the shower is a surprise – state it in bold lettering!).
Shower date and time
Address of shower location – include a map if it is difficult to find.
RSVP date, name and phone number
Wedding shower gift ideas (registry information, details about bride’s future home etc.)
When should I send out the invitations? It is really important to send the invitations at least three to four weeks before the event date. You want to give people plenty of time to clear their calendar and shop for a wedding shower gift.
What is a co-ed shower? A co-ed shower, sometimes called a Jack and Jill Shower is more of a party thrown for the bride and groom. Outdoor parties and BBQs are popular for co-ed parties. Oftentimes, to keep everyone interested during the gift opening, there are party games. Co-ed showers are becoming an increasingly popular way to celebrate the upcoming nuptials.
Where can I get wedding shower gift ideas? If you are stuck for wedding shower gift ideas, consider the following suggestions:
Check out the couples bridal registry and select a gift from the list.
Speak to the host of the shower to see if the bride has given any suggestions.
Find out about the couple's future home and select a gift to coordinate with their decor.
Browse The Gifted Sparrow, a premier online shopping destination featuring a terrific selection of unique wedding shower gift ideas.