KissMeGoodnight
eRomance Series:
Throwing a Bridal Shower
Bridal
Shower Gifts:
Things You Should Know
Planning a bridal shower can be a big event
for the bride-to-be. It is the job of the hostess to make sure
that the bride has a pleasant time and that they guests are
taken care of. Wedding etiquette can be confusing and some
of that applies to the bridal shower, as well. If you are responsible
for planning a bridal shower or are invited to a shower and
are not sure of proper gift etiquette, there are a few things
you should know when it comes to dealing with gifts.
Bridal showers are traditionally given to “shower” a bride-to-be
with gifts for her new married life. In the past, it was tradition
to give gifts that would help a woman with her new home. Now,
things are changing. Showers are given to include the
men and gifts are becoming less traditional. Some hostess may choose
to set a theme and ask guests to bring a gift that relates
to the theme. Some brides may not need a lot of items for their
home and ask that gifts not be given. If you are hosting a
bridal shower, it is always a good idea to seek the opinion
of your bride before sending out invitations.
Wedding
gifts and bridal shower gifts are not the same thing. Wedding gifts are given at the wedding and shower gifts are
given at the shower. Generally, wedding guests who do not attend
the bridal shower will bring a gift to the wedding. Guests
who do attend the shower are not expected to bring a gift to
the wedding. In addition, it is not proper wedding etiquette
to ask for or mention gifts in the invitation to the wedding.
It is improper to put the bride and groom’s registry location
on the wedding invitation, but it is proper to include that
information on the shower invitation.
When attending a bridal shower, it is important to know that
gifts can be elaborate or casual. This might depend on the
type of shower that is being given. As a host, you will set
the tone of the shower and the wishes of the bride and groom
will be included on the invitation.
If the bride and groom need many items for a new home, then
guests may choose to buy gifts off the couple’s registry list.
A registry list is a list of items that are pre-selected by
the bride and groom. Generally, large department stores and
retail stores have registry options. The list will give guests
a detailed list of what they couple needs and the price. When
the item is purchased, it will be taken off the list. It is
not necessary for a guest to purchase off the registry list
to attend a shower. Guest may choose to give gift cards, money,
or other items that they know will be appreciated by the bride
and groom.
In addition, it is perfectly
acceptable for bridal shower guests to chip in to purchase
a larger and more expensive item,
such as a washer or dryer or even a television. Large gift
purchases are a perfect way for guests to give the amount they
feel is appropriate while still buying the couple a gift that
is needed. If you are a hostess and chose to buy a large item,
include that information on the invitation. You might want
to give the couple a gift card so they can pick out the item.
If this is the case, have each person send you the money before
the shower and sign a card at the shower. You might find that
you are low on the donations. If this happens you can call
those you feel might be willing to donate more money, such
as the bride’s relatives. If you have more money than you need
to for the item, use the leftover money to purchase items that
relate to the big-ticket item.
When you are the hostess, it will also be your job to make
sure the gifts are opened at the appropriate time during the
shower. Usually this is done as the last activity. Also, appoint
someone to write down each guest and the gift they give the
bride while she is opening the presents. Make a copy for her
so she can make her thank you cards. You might even consider
giving her a list of all of the addresses so she will not be
pressed for time right before the wedding.
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KissMeGoodnight.com
: 2006
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