You’ve picked the bridal shower date, set the venue down, and select a party theme, what’s your next task? Decide the guest list and sending out bridal shower invitations.
But choosing who to invite to this celebration can be a bit difficult, especially if you’re unsure of the etiquette rules surrounding this pre-wedding bash. Luckily, we’re here to help!
It includes who, when and how, everything you need to know about bridal shower etiquette, and who is typically invited to bridal shower.
Bridal shower etiquette takes a little more effort than you might realize at first, especially if this is your first time hosting such a party. Whether you’re planning a classic tea party, a backyard barbecue or a fancy brunch, here’s everything you need to know from the start.
Who Gets Invited to the Bridal Shower?
Here’s everything you need to know about making a guest list for this pre-wedding bash, and the etiquette rules you’ll want to know as the host of this event.
Of course, there are some nuances to consider here Ahead, find our best tips for figuring out who should be invited to this celebratory affair.
The guest list for a bridal shower typically includes:
- Female Family Members: Mother, sisters, aunts, cousins, and grandmothers of both brides and grooms.
- The Bridesmaids and Maid of Honor: They often play a significant role in planning the shower.
- Close Friends: Best friends, college roommates, work colleagues, and other close female friends.
- Future Mother-in-Law: The groom’s mother is often invited as a sign of welcome and to celebrate the upcoming marriage.
- Family friends: Family friends who have been important in the bride’s life.
- Co-workers: Close coworkers who are friends with the bride and part of her daily life.
- Plus ones: Depending on the bride’s preferences, guests may be allowed to bring a plus one.
- Traditionally, bridal showers are more intimate gatherings for women. However in 2024, bridal showers can also include close male friends or relatives if the bride wishes.
It’s important to note that the guest list for a bridal shower can vary depending on the bride’s preference and the size of her social circle. Some brides may choose to invite a larger group, including male friends and family members.
However, the bridal shower is a celebration for the bride-to-be, so it’s meant to be more intimate than the wedding. You should only invite people you’re close with, even if they’re family members.
Inviting people who are genuinely close to the bride and have a meaningful connection with her is what’s most important.
The Bride Ultimately Decides the Number of Guests
You should also check with the bride-to-be before finalizing the guest list to make sure you’re only inviting people she feels comfortable having in attendance.
Ask the bride for a list of must-have guests. This ensures that her closest friends and family are included. Be sure to also discuss venue constraints and any budget limitations that may impact the guest count.
Don’t Invite Anyone to the Bridal Shower If They’re Not Invited to the Wedding
Inviting people to the bridal shower if they are not invited to the wedding is inappropriate. It will likely offend them, and it looks very much so like you’re pandering for gifts. As such, find time to connect with the bride-to-be and discuss who’s on the final wedding guest list. From there, you can begin crafting a list of names to invite to the bridal shower.
Keep The Bridal Shower Intimate
Bridal showers are typically more personal and smaller in scale than weddings, so it’s okay to keep the guest list tight. This means you shouldn’t feel obligated to invite significant others or friends of relatives unless the bride-to-be truly has a close relationship with them.
However, even with an intimate guest list, it’s important that you create a well-rounded list that represents the bride’s different social circles, such as family members, childhood and college friends, and coworkers. Creating a seating chart will also help guarantee that all guests are happy on the day of the bridal shower.
Be Sure to Include All Relevant Information on the Invite
A well-crafted bridal shower invitation should include several key pieces of information: the bride’s name, the date and time of the shower, the venue address, RSVP details, and any registry information. Additionally, if it is a themed party, including a theme and any special instructions, such as a dress code, can be very helpful for guests.
Send Out Invitations Within an Appropriate Timeframe
Timing is crucial for bride to be invitations, Ideally, they should be sent out about six to eight weeks before the event. This gives guests ample time to RSVP and make any necessary travel, schedule, or childcare arrangements. Sending them too early might lead to guests forgetting the date, and sending them too late could result in low attendance due to conflicts.