Bridal Showers and other Wedding Festivities

CEBU, Philippines - A bridal shower is a practical and attractive way to help a bride set up housekeeping. Guests can give utilitarian things such as kitchen supplies, linens, cooking equipment and bath accessories to form a little nest egg of needed items with which to start off her new life. It is typically an informal affair and the objective is to socialize, enjoy refreshments and watch the bride open gifts. Often there are activities or games. These fun parties can be "ladies only" or co-ed events. Bridesmaids might co-host, or a group of close friends or even work colleagues might take on the responsibility.

Although it is lovely to send a printed invitation to a wedding shower, if it is a very small or very casual party, it is acceptable to invite guests by phone or even email. From an etiquette standpoint, there are really only a few things to remember about a shower.

.           The bride is usually consulted                                     before the shower about what she                  really needs so that the gifts are                             appropriate.

.           The host must provide

            refreshments.

.           The bride must open all her gifts at                the party.

.           Registry information shall not be put                         out on the shower invitation. If it's a              themed shower, say bath, kitchen,                   linen or lingerie, it is okay to note                               color preference or sizes; if the host                       wishes, she can include a separate                  note with the invitation specifying                 the bridal registry.

.           Everyone who is invited to the                                   shower must be invited to the                                     wedding.

.           A thank-you note is required , even if                        thanks were expressed personally to               the shower  giver during the party, as                    well as for gifts from people who                               didn't attend the shower.

.           If bride is to receive things to wear,               exact sizes should be ascertained.

Celebration Do's and Don'ts

Do

.           Even though you are busy with                                  work and planning a wedding, take               the time to enjoy these special                              parties with your close friends and                 families as these are the moments                         you will treasure.

.           Express your wishes regarding the                 size of each of your parties, special                people you would like to include                                     and any important details about                                 things you really want, but do so                           politely and with consideration.

.           Be a considerate honoree.                               Remember to thank the host of                                  any and every special event with a                   personal note and a small gift of                                 thanks.

 Don't

.           Do not take over the planning of                                your celebration. Let yourself be                                surprised and delighted by what                                your loved ones come up with for                  you.

.           Don't make demands. If you have                  a request or an important priority,                   just let the hosts know politely and                   discreetly.

 .          Don't invite people yourself. If                                   there is someone you want to                                     include, ask the hostess if it is                                    possible and provide contact                          information.

Pre-wedding parties and showers can be gay and exciting, and certainly express the joy and happiness surrounding the upcoming event. However, if there are too many parties preceding the wedding, or parties are closely scheduled, it can be exhausting to everyone concerned. If many people suggest parties, the wise bride may urge them to join forces. A sensible program of entertaining can make this time memorable for all. (FREEMAN)