The period preceding your wedding will probably include several parties, but there is one which, among the others, will be given in your honor.
The "shower" can be organized from two months to two weeks before your marriage. Usually, it is your maid of honor who takes charge of preparations, assisted by the other bridesmaids.

The bridal shower is generally very intimate and reserved for the close friends and family of the future bride. However, nothing prevents other parties being organized by work colleagues, or people who may not be present at your wedding.

A small note: only the people invited to the wedding should also be invited for the shower.

It is ideal to plan this evening 1 to 2 months in advance because the more the big day approaches, the busier the bride will be. So, it would be preferable to send the invitations 3 to 4 weeks before the date reserved.

The shower invitation should contain the following information:
   • The names of the hosts
   • The name of the bride (including the mention "engaged to...")
   • The date, the time, the place
   • A special mention if it is a surprise
   • The name and address of the person to reply to
   • If a theme was chosen
   • The bride's wish list for presents (with places, or internet site of where    to get them)

Generally, the parents of the bride bring financial support.

Ideas for locations:
   • The bride's parents' residence
   • Restaurant
   • Tearoom
   • The residence of the Maid of Honor or one of the bridesmaids...

During the event, generally during the dessert, the future bride is invited to open her gifts in front of the guests. You may like to conclude the evening with a small speech to thank your guests.

New trend!

If most of the guests are common friends of the couple, you can just as well organize the "Shower of Eric and Louise ". Opt for this kind of party if the bride and groom's guest lists will likely contain the same names.