Wedding Shower Invitations

Wedding shower invitations should be sent about a month prior to the shower by the maid-of-honor, who is most likely organizing the affair. However, this is no longer a set-in-stone rule. Close friends can also organize a bridal shower and while the mother of the bride should not host the event, she can help with preparations. Etiquette states that the main organizer should be a friend, not a relative of the bride or groom.

Time-wise, a month should give guests sufficient time to plan, accounting for travel and any scheduling conflicts. Late morning and early afternoon are usually best when setting the time and as for location, anywhere (but the home of the bride-to-be) should work. From a friend’s home to a local restaurant, the location should simply allow for a relaxed, party atmosphere with no time limit.

As for the guest list, the wedding guest list is a good place to start. If possible, do not invite anyone to the shower that is not also invited to the wedding. If themed, guests should be provided instructions on what to bring. Also, directions to the shower’s location should always be included with the invitation, as well as a contact number in case a person gets lost.

Guest lists traditionally used to be only women, but another sign of the times has been the inclusion of men – including the groom. Couples attending need only be sent one invitation, but customary etiquette usually calls for one invitation per person. As for brides who have more than one shower, guest lists should be unique for each. If a person is invited to more than one shower however, it’s proper etiquette to explain in the second invitation that an additional gift is not required and that only the person’s presence is being requested.

Wedding shower invitations serve not only as invites, but as reminders to “save the date.” As for thank-you cards, they are a definite must and if possible, should be sent as soon as possible after the shower and prior to the wedding. While invitations can be printed, the thank-you notes should be handwritten and should be signed with the bride’s maiden name.