Invitations to a Bridal Shower

The modern bridal shower is a throwback to the days when a bride brought her dowry to the marriage. Provided by her father, the dowry made her more attractive to potential husbands and gave the newly married couple material goods and finances to help them start their new lives together. Modern bridal showers, attended by family and friends, allow today's brides and grooms to have the basic necessities to furnish their new homes.

Bridal showers are hosted by one or more friends of the bride. The invitations are usually informal. They may be engraved, but many times fill-in invitations are used.

Many bridal showers have gift themes, such as linens, kitchen, and lingerie. For older brides, the themes might include tennis, golf, garden, and travel. When a shower has a theme, the theme is mentioned in the lower right hand corner.

I'm being married for the second time. Is it appropriate for somebody to host a shower for me?

Historically, bridal showers have been reserved for first-time brides. That, however, is a tradition that is changing. Showers are now being given for second-time brides, especially if she did not have one before her first wedding.

Can my sister host a shower for me?

Since the purpose of a shower is to receive gifts, it is inappropriate for any member of your immediate family to host one. It may appear as though they are soliciting gifts for you at your request.