- A bridal shower is a party for the bride before the wedding and the guests bring gifts for the bride. The bridal shower is also a good chance for the bride to spend time with close friends and family. Although some bridal showers are surprise parties, most showers are planned with the bride's knowledge. The bride typically helps the hostess create the guest list for the party.
- Bridal showers typically include a chance for guests to socialize and mingle. Oftentimes, the shower also includes a few ice breaker games. Food is usually a part of the shower, but the menu depends on the time of day of the shower. If the shower is not over a mealtime, light appetizers are acceptable. Yet, if the shower is near a mealtime, the hostess should serve a light lunch or dinner. The bride opens the presents at the shower. She should have a bridesmaid or close friend record who gave her which items so she can write thank you notes. The shower usually ends with the guests enjoying cake. Many hostess give the guests at a bridal shower a small favor for attending. In addition, many brides bring a thank you gift for the hostess.
- Traditionally, a bridal shower was a ladies only event that was typically held in the afternoon. The event consisted of light food, games, cake and presents. Although, many bridal shower still follow this traditional format, some couples opt for a Jack and Jill shower. A Jack and Jill shower is a couple's shower for both the bride and groom that is attended by both male and female friends. Another trend is to have a theme shower, such as around the house, where each guest is assigned a different room in the house to decorate. Another common theme is an around the clock shower. At this type of shower each guest is given a time of the day and is invited to purchase a gift that can be used at that time of day.
- The maid of honor or bridesmaids typically host the shower. However, good friends or family members sometimes throw the shower also. Note that, in some communities, it is considered poor etiquette for a member of the bride's family to throw the bridal shower. However, in some communities, it is typical for members of the family to throw the bridal shower. Another important decision is if the shower will be held in someone's home or in a restaurant. While a home shower typically costs less, they involve more work on the hostess. Be sure that all guests to the shower are also invited to the wedding. It is bad etiquette for someone to be invited a bridal shower if she is not invited to the wedding.
- Most showers are held between two months to two weeks before the wedding. Many showers are held over lunchtime or in the early afternoon. However, couple showers are often held in the evening or over dinner time. The time of day can be selected to meet the bride's preferences.
