The bridal shower is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the wedding process for the bride. This is perhaps the only party that she doesn’t have to get involved in the planning or execution, although some brides still do.
In case you find yourself saddled with planning one (especially in Nigeria), here are a few do’s and don’ts that will help make the day a success:
- Don’t wait till the last minute to start the planning. Planning an event last minute usually spells disaster, so you want to have enough time to get it right.
- Do take the bride and her personality into consideration. As much as this is a party for all of you, it is still very much about the bride so don’t have a ‘breakfast at Tiffany’s’ themed bridal shower for a bride-to-be who would rather drink beer.
- Do try to work with a theme of sorts, it makes it fun. It doesn’t have to be elaborate but such things as dress or colour codes just add a little pizazz to the day.
- Don’t work with a budget that isn’t pocket-friendly. Unless the shower is being sponsored, money will likely be donated by the bride’s friends and not everyone lives on the same pay grade. People who can’t afford it won’t be able to attend and will feel some resentment towards the bride.
- Do have a back-up venue. Venues in Nigeria are probably the biggest problem you will face when planning a bridal shower especially when you’re working with a pocket-friendly budget. You’d be surprised how many venues will change their minds close to the day. You don’t have to go all out though, a friend’s house could just be the perfect spot for you.
- Do involve the groom in your plans especially if you plan to surprise her with it. Even if you don’t, involve him anyway. Some men are touchy and might need some reassurance that the party doesn’t mean other men will have undue access to his ‘Mrs-to-be’. You might want to keep the male stripper out of the report though.
- Don’t use a regular hangout spot for the shower. If you intend for it to be special, look for a nice quiet place you don’t normally go to and splurge a little. The difference in location and activities will make it a memorable day for her.
- Don’t plan the hen night too close to the wedding day. If your group of friends like to party, one will negatively affect the other. Give at least a week in between so you can all rest and be bright-eyed for the big day.
- Do try and incorporate friends from all areas of the bride’s life. The diversity makes it more interesting and the larger the crowd, the more fun you could have.
- Don’t box yourselves in. In addition to the regular dinner or party, you could also plan fun activities like going to the movies, paintballing, etc.
So go out on a limb and take the risk. Create that unforgettable day for you and your friends.
Photo Credit: greenweddingshoes.com
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