How to Create a Bridal Shower "Wishing Well"

Wishing wells add fun to bridal showers.

So everything on the registry is purchased and you've picked out the perfect gift, but you know there are still things the bride-to-be needs. The best solution is a bridal wishing well. A wishing well takes care of all the odds and ends that aren't addressed in the registry. Guests at the shower are encouraged to bring an extra small gift for a "wishing well" of gifts, an anonymous mix of gifts meant to ensure the bride and groom are truly set for life together. They usually follow a theme and add to the fun of the shower.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• A large bucket, cooler or other container, depending on the theme
• A gift to fit the theme
• Posterboard
• Markers or cutout letters

1. Choose a theme. Some sample themes are recipes, kitchen supplies, honeymoon needs, summer parties or bed and bath.

2. Note on the shower invitations that you'll be having a wishing well so that everyone can be involved. Since you've chosen the theme prior to the shower, be sure to let the guests know the theme so they can bring an appropriate gift.

3. Choose a container, or "well," that matches the theme. Be creative here because any large container will do. For the summer party theme, you may want to choose a cooler, or for honeymoon needs a luggage set would be appropriate. The guests will be placing small gifts into these containers, but they may also place them around it, so don't stress too much about the size.

4. Create a setup. To ensure that guests can identify the wishing well area, you'll want to mark the space and create a unique spot for it. Keep it in line with the theme and decorate with matching items. For example, if you choose kitchen needs, decorate with checkered table cloths or placemats that can be used again. If you pick the bed and bath theme, you can set up the area like a bed by setting up sheets and pillows. You should also complete the area with a sign that identifies it. Use a posterboard and markers or cut-out letters to create a cute sign saying "(Bride's) Wishing Well. Make a Wish!" or something similar.

5. Add your own gift once the well is set up on the day of the shower. This is a special addition to any shower the bride will truly enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Some brides seem to have everything they need. You may choose to do a wishing well for small cash gifts. If this is the case, just make sure to supply small colored envelopes at the wishing well to maintain anonymity.

• Have fun with this. You may choose to do something risque such as a wishing well for "honeymoon attire," where everyone donates a new pair of undergarments. You could also do something sentimental, such as a wishing well of advice, where everyone donates their best piece of advice to the bride. The only limits are those of your own creativity.

• Make it clear to the guests on the invitation that this is for small gifts only. No one wants to feel obligated to buy a second present.