Beyond the Aisle: Wedding Shower
What
A “wedding shower” is the more inclusive iteration of a conventional bridal shower. While a bridal shower is customarily reserved for the bride and only her female friends and family, a wedding shower is a co-ed version customized to fit any style or preference.
Although we will refer to this event as a “wedding shower,” it is entirely up to the hosts and guests to choose a name that suits them best. Whether it is a “bridal shower” for ladies only, a “groom’s shower” for the gentlemen, a “nearlywed shower” for a nonbinary celebrant or a “Jack and Jill party” for the couple hosting together, the spirit of the celebration remains the same.
The shower usually takes place during the day, with options like a luncheon, tea party or light hors d’oeuvres social. As the name implies, the event is a time to shower you with love and gifts. It’s an excellent opportunity to incorporate a unique theme or light-hearted games, such as the shoe game, couples trivia matches or yard games like bocce and ladder toss.
Who
Typically, the wedding shower is hosted by friends or family members of the couple, and the nearlywed does not need to do any planning themselves. Put your maid of honor, wedding attendant, aunt or mother’s bestie in charge and let them take care of planning and organizing the celebration.
While the guest list can include anyone, we suggest limiting it to those who are also invited to the wedding itself. This usually includes immediate family members, wedding
attendants (such as bridesmaids and groomsmen) and close friends of the couple. A smaller
and more intimate celebration is easier to manage and allows for more meaningful interactions.
When
One to three months before the wedding.
Where
The shower’s host home is a common venue for this celebration. However, other popular options include private dining areas of restaurants or cafes, outdoor patios, gardens, wineries or hotel event spaces.
Featured Wedding Shower
Ready to plan some more celebrations beyond the aisle? Check out 6 more wedding-related events to consider here!
