Most girls grow up dreaming about getting married, visualizing over and over in their mind what their perfect wedding day will look like. It’s funny, then, how once they get engaged and enter into wedding planning mode our brides-to-be often overlook an important part of their overall wedding experience – their bridal shower.
Leaving the single life and preparing for marriage is an important time in a bride’s life, which bridal showers are intended to celebrate. And it’s usually up to family and friends to plan and create bridal showers full of memorable bridal shower activities since the bride-to-be is usually preoccupied with her wedding planning.
The bride’s tastes and personality are certainly factors you should take into account as you begin to plan your bridal shower activities. It’s important to understand the bride’s preferences and point of view on her shower as these will influence many of your decisions. Staying true to the bride’s personality will also help you make the bridal shower memorable and unique. From the start, think about how you can break free from “traditional” activities, like making a tissue paper wedding dress or playing pin-the-tail on the bridegroom. Instead, create a set of bridal shower activities completely centered on the bride that will engage both her and your guests.
For example, go to a classy hotel and spend the day having the bride (and guests) completely pampered and catered to. Imagine how nice it would be to have aroma therapy, massages, hot saunas, or a dip in the hotel Jacuzzi. Follow that with time together in a comfortable room where you can all reminisce about the times you’ve spent with the bride.
You can also easily create some interesting bridal shower activities by holding your bridal shower at a local high-end mall. For starters, take the bride on a shopping spree (make sure she knows there’s a budget!). While shopping, pass by the lingerie shop and let her select something the groom will enjoy seeing her wear. And before you leave, take the bride to the mall caf and let her indulge in anything she likes from coffee to gourmet chocolate or ice cream.
Some brides might prefer more of an “outside” experience, particularly if they’re more of an outdoors and nature-loving type. We’ve heard of bridal shower activities that include everything from bungee jumping and hiking to canoeing, wine tasting, and even planting trees for remembrance of the day. Better yet, if you live near a nice lake or the ocean, head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun, complete with picnic food, a few bottles of wine and more. As day turns to evening, find a place to have a bonfire where you can sit, relax, and enjoy each other’s company. Or you can still give the bride here outdoor bridal shower at someone’s home, decorating the backyard or available area with candles, lights, flowers, ribbons and other items to create that special feeling and atmosphere.
There’s clearly no shortage of options you have when planning bridal shower activities. So as long as you’re keeping the bride’s preferences and personality in mind, let your mind wander and go for a unique, memorable day.
Get more bridal shower activities ideas and other planning and decorating tips for your bridal shower. Join Ellen Glover and our other blog writers at BridalShowerMoments.com.