So you have been tasked with planning a wonderful pre-wedding event for someone dear to you and now you are wondering where to start! If you are confused about the difference between a bridal shower and a Hen’s party, when you should be hosting the event and who to invite, we have you covered with all you need to know about planning the perfect Bridal shower!
What is the difference between a bridal shower and hen’s party?
Both are pre-wedding events celebrating the bride-to-be however they differ greatly in the vibe of event and who is invited. Bridal showers are typically a sophisticated afternoon with the bride's nearest and dearest where gifts are exchanged, games are played and delicious food is consumed. A Hens party also known as a bachelorette party is for the bride's closest friends and is usually an evening spent drinking and typically has phallic accessories present.
Who plans the Bridal shower?
Traditionally the Maid of Honour and Bridesmaids plan the event however the event can be hosted by anyone close to the bride (including the Mother of the Bride) who is ready and willing to take on the responsibility.
The Bride may not be the one planning the event, however it's vital to ensure that you understand her wishes to ensure she has a fantastic time.
Who do I invite to a bridal shower?
A bridal shower is typically a female-only event for the bride's nearest and dearest. It is customary to include only people attending the wedding. Ultimately it is up to the bride who she would like there however typically bridal showers see friends and family of the couple attending.
Guests to consider inviting:
- Mother
- Grandmothers
- Aunties
- Close cousins
- Friends
- Work friends
- Nieces
- Close family friends
- In-laws
When to send invites?
Ideally, you want to send your invitations out 6 to 8 weeks before the event. This will give your guests time to RSVP and make arrangements if needed. If you are mailing invitations take into account postage time as you may need to send them earlier
Pro Tip: Use a Bridal Shower invite template on Canva to design your invitations.
How long before the wedding should the bridal shower be?
A Bridal shower is a pre-wedding event, while there is no set time you must host a bridal shower most brides choose to have theirs between two and six weeks before the wedding. Some brides however may want the event in the same week as the wedding to minimise travel for guests.
When picking a date for a bridal shower it is important to select a date that is most convenient for the bride.
Things to consider when picking a date:
- What commitments does the bride have leading up to the wedding ( dress fittings, beauty appointments, wedding planning meetings).
- Are guests required to travel long distances for the event? If yes, consider hosting the event the same week as the wedding or a few months before the wedding so that guests are not required to travel within a short period of time.
- Are there any long weekends and holiday periods leading up to the wedding? Guests may have commitments over these periods. Consider doing an earlier shower if you are getting married in January or February as this is always a busy time of year.
Pro Tip: Have the bride suggest 3 dates and rank them from most to least preferred so that you have options when looking for a venue. October to March is the busiest time for bridal showers so book early for your preferred date.
Looking for a Bridal shower venue?
Speak with one of Mary's wonderfull team members about hosting a Bridal shower at one of our beautiful private tea rooms.
Email eat@maryeatscake.com.au or call 03 9728 6435 for more information.