How to Host a Couples Wedding Shower

Instead of the traditional wedding shower with only women invited, shower both the bride and groom with gifts and good wishes. A fun alternative to the traditional shower with finger foods and dainty napkins, a couples shower can feature hearty food and drink and loads of fun.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Champagne
• Personal Organizers
• Candles
• Postage Stamps
• Champagne Glasses
• Sparkling Cider
• Champagne Buckets
• Wedding Shower Invitations

1. Ask for the bride's and groom's input before planning their couples shower. Develop the guest list with their help, remembering that all shower guests should also be invited to the wedding.

2. Select a date and time that will be convenient for couples. A Friday or Saturday evening affair or a Sunday afternoon barbecue may be the best bet.

3. Consider a location other than your home. Restaurants and public parks are good choices, especially if you cannot accommodate a lot of people in your home or backyard.

4. Choose a theme. While an elegant tea is not out of the question, create an atmosphere in which men will feel comfortable and have fun.

5. Decide whether you want formal or casual dress. Bear in mind that most people enjoy dressing down, especially on a weekend. Indicate "casual" or "dressy" on the invitation.

6. Plan a menu. A party with wine and appetizers may be appropriate, or you can arrange for a catered dinner, deli sandwiches or a full-scale outdoor cookout. A potluck affair will be easiest for you and will allow everyone to contribute.

7. Decide whether you want to play games or not. If so, try to come up with games that will involve the men without seeming too corny.

8. Consider the gift-opening segment of the party. While men might be interested in the groom's gifts, they might also become bored. Provide alternatives such as a sports event on TV or an outdoor activity.

9. Try to limit the shower to a couple of hours. To avoid people lingering far beyond your expectations, include both a starting and ending time on the invitation.

Tips & Warnings

• The bridal attendants and groomsmen should be invited, but be aware that uncoupled guests may feel uncomfortable. Give them the opportunity to opt out gracefully.

• Liquor is served more often at couples showers than at women-only showers. Plan to have wine and beer on hand if you are serving a meal.

• Great couples-shower themes include a "Jack and Jill" shower, with gifts that can be used by both husband and wife; a "Stock the Bar" shower, with gifts such as bar glasses, bar tools and liquor; a "Handyman and Handywoman" shower, with gifts such as tools and other household items; and a gardening shower, with gifts that can be used in the garden. Themes can also focus on the shared interests of the couple, such as sports or hobbies.

• To select games for a couples shower, refer to a book of general party games. You can often adapt them to your theme.

• Try to discourage really risqué gifts, unless everyone knows everyone else and you're sure no one will be embarrassed or offended.