Bridal Shower Etiquette

Key to hostessing a successful shower is preparation, from selecting the type of shower, making the guest list and invitations, through the entertainment, menu and gift opening.

Give the Bride and Guests a Party to Remember

The season for weddings has arrived, and with it comes bridal showers— the engagement tradition that showers the bride-to-be and her fiancé with useful things for their new home.

Key to hostessing a successful shower is preparation, from selecting the type of shower, making the guest list and invitations, through the entertainment, menu and gift opening.

Almost anyone —an aunt, cousin, friend, neighbor, bridesmaid- can hostess a shower.

The only rule, according to Elizabeth L. Post, in "The New Emily Post's Etiquette," is the immediate family, including the mother-in-law, should not, under ordinary circumstances, hostess showers because it seems like the family is soliciting gifts.

Anyone planning a shower should check with the bride-to-be or her mother before making definite plans, to eliminate the possibility of inviting the same set of guests to a series of shower parties that could be a financial burden.

The shower should take place six weeks to one month before the wedding. If it's too close to the wedding, it may be inconvenient for the bride-to-be, who has much to do during those last busy days.

Choosing a theme isn't necessary, but it adds to the fun and allows guests to use their imagination.

The theme-Christmas, recipe card, round-the-clock, whatever- can be carried out in the table dec- or, name tags or place cards and games. Other theme ideas include lingerie, linen, kitchen, pantry or closet.

Joint showers for the prospective bride and groom are becoming popularFriends of both sexes are invited. Appropriate gifts include desk and bar equipment, kitchen gadgets, books, records, edibles, garden and other tools.

The choices are wide open when it comes to the time of day and setting of a shower, but people should not be invited who are excluded from the wedding.

The bridesmaids, who generally are included at several showers, should not be expected to bring a gift to each one. They might want to go together on joint gifts to keep costs down. — By Dian Page for Gannett News Service, 1986

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