One of the fun things that you get to do as part of your new engagement is having a bridal shower before your nuptials. Spending the time deciding on which games to play, the color scheme, and gathering all your girlfriends is so much fun. With all the fun that's in store, there are still some Things Hosts and Guests Should Not Do at a Bridal Shower that we wanted to share with you.
Things Hosts and Guests Should Not Do at a Bridal Shower
Photo credit: Tracie Beattie
If You're A Guest
1. Don't Post Your Photos to Social Media Before the Bride Has a Chance
First, on our list of Things Hosts and Guests Should Not Do at a Bridal Shower, is to post before the guest of honor. If you are one of those people that just love to post on social media, you should wait a bit and give the bride-to-be a chance to post first. This includes going live. You all are having a great time and you would like the world to see but out of respect for the bride-to-be hold off until after the bridal shower.
2. Don't Bring an Uninvited Guest
Just like the wedding all guests are accounted for and budgeted for. You should get permission from the bride-to-be before bringing someone that wasn't invited. No matter if the bride-to-be knows the person or not. That's why responding to the RSVP is important as well. It helps with the seating arrangements, catering, and so much more.
3. Don't Disregard the Dress Code
Ok, you have that cute little outfit that you have just been dying to wear. However, if the bride-to-be has indicated a dress code on the invitation you should adhere to that. Be respectful to the bride-to-be by being tasteful and classy within the dress code.
4. Don't Disregard the Gift Registry
It's all about the bride-to-be and if she has taken the time to create a gift registry then be sure to grab something from the list. You may be tempted to get her something that you think she would like or something that she can use but to be on the safe side simply give her something that she has asked for.
5. Don't Forget to Bring a Gift
We all are very busy people but the last thing you want to do is show up to the bridal shower without a gift. Plan the day by going on the gift registry and budgeting for something the bride has listed. Everyone knows that reading the cards and opening the gifts are a big deal at bridal showers.
If You're The Host
1. Don't Let the Games Takeover the Entire Shower
Bridal showers have scheduled timelines just like most other social gatherings. This includes opening gifts, playing games, and taking photos. However, sometimes the games can go on a bit too long and cut into other things that were lined up for the day. A total of no more than 3 games should be plenty of time for guests to have a good time. You don't want guests to leave or become disinterested.
2. Don't Forget to Mingle WIth the Guest
As a host, we get so caught up in making sure things run smoothly that we forget to interact with our guests. To make sure you have time to mingle with your guests past the torch of hosting the bridal shower over to the maid of honor. This way you have more time to speak with and make sure all your guests feel welcome and comfortable.
3. Don't Forget to Accommodate Guests WIth Food Allergies
When deciding what to serve your guests at the bridal shower, don't forget about those that have food allergies and dietary restrictions. Simply ask the question on your invitation so that you can accommodate them when they arrive.
4. Don't Invite Guests Who Aren't Invited to the Wedding
If you don't have any intention of inviting a guest to the wedding, you shouldn't invite them to the bridal shower. Many assume that they are invited to the wedding because they were invited to the shower. This goes for any friends or family members that you don't plan to send a wedding invitation.
5. Don't Show Disappointment While Opening Your Gifts
You don't want to make any guest feel bad or uncomfortable so try to refrain from any negative comments or reactions while opening your gifts. Your guest took the time to buy something and even if you don't like it, don't show it!
If you would like to learn more about our Things Hosts and Guests Should Not Do at a Bridal Shower, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners.