PERFECT PLANNING
Plan to have the bridal shower 6 weeks before the wedding, and start preparing 8 weeks before the party. Keep the colors, decor and style similar to what the bride has chosen for her wedding. Invitations can be by mail or by phone 2 weeks before the shower. Be sure to list if the shower has a theme so guests can dress appropriately and bring gifts accordingly. If you purchase the invitations, look for matching thank you cards to give to the bride. She will definitely appreciate that.

DELICIOUS DELECTIBLES
Casual finger foods and munchies are the easiest. Consider the time of day you are planning the party so people aren’t too hungry, usually 2:30-4:30 is a good time. Veggies and dip, fruit plates, cheese & crackers, mini-sandwiches, cookies and mints or candies are all favorites. Don’t be afraid to ask other bridesmaids for help with the food. Keep in mind food what the bride likes and provide a dessert of her choice or a cake decorated for the party.

FUN FESTIVITIES
Games are always nice at bridal showers because they are good ice breakers and encourage conversation, especially if many people don’t know each other. Provide music to relax people and never pick games that will embarrass your guests or make them feel uncomfortable. Good ideas for prizes are movie passes, bath salts, houseplants in a pretty pot, bottles of wine, message paper pads, gourmet jelly beans, candle sets, gourmet chocolate or decorative candy bowls.

DAZZLING DECORATIONS
Match the colors of the wedding when selecting decorations. Potpourri in dishes, framed photos from the bride’s childhood, Japanese lanterns, white lights, baskets full of fresh flowers and balloons will make the room look like a party. If you would like to give guests a party favor as they leave, consider these ideas: fabric covered boxes with a treat inside, potpourri in the wedding colors in a bag with a pretty ribbon, engraved glasses, exotic teas in small baskets, small pictures of the bride in a frame, or flavored lip gloss in a small bag or box.