How to Host a Couples Shower

I love the idea of a couples shower.  It's like a more relaxed version of an engagement party.  A chance for family and friends to get together with no pressure.



Who should Host?

The obvious answer is the bridal party.  All of the bridal party, groomsmen included.  This will be a fun way for the bridal party to get to know each other and bond over the planning.  The maid of honor (MOH) and the Best Man (BM) should take the lead, but tasks (and costs) should be spread out over the entire group.

Who to Invite?

Friends and families.  It doesn't have to be all couples, but if you invite singles, make sure that you '& guest' their invite.  Remember the rule of thumb, do not invite anyone who will not be invited to the wedding.  Always consult the bride and groom before finalizing the guest list.

Invitations should be mailed, digital reminders can be sent a week before.  Do not post it on the wedding website or Facebook page unless you have invited everyone on the wedding guest list.  Invitations should be mailed 4-6 weeks before the event.

When to Have it?

Typically couples showers are held on Saturday night.  But, with any shower it can be held in the afternoon.  Actually, it might be better in the afternoon, especially if it being held during a popular sporting event.  It would be fun to set-up a TV and let the conversations naturally flow.  Planning it at least 6 weeks prior to the wedding.

What to Serve?

The easiest idea is to host a good old fashion bbq.  No fuss, paper plates, easy clean up.  Put the men in charge of organizing the grills, and then manning them.  They should also be in charge of bar, task them with developing a themed drink, which will help you keep the costs down.

Gifts?

For this type of shower, with the bride and groom's approval, it is completely acceptable to state on the invitation "No Gifts Please" - if they do want gifts that is appropriate to.  If that is the case gifts should be opened in front of the guests.

Games?

Yes!  Divide into teams boys vs girls teams if you have some singles that are attending and go old school.  Think water balloon toss, three legged races.  The games don't have to be traditional, although how much fun would it be to watch the men put together wedding dresses out of toilet paper?  I'm just saying...

Theme Ideas

-Theme/Colors of the Wedding
-Stock the Bar (everyone brings a bottle)
-Fill the Garage (everyone brings a tool)

Please do not do the following:

-make it a potluck
-ask the guest to write their address on a envelope for the Thank you note
-send out a Facebook invite

Happy Planning!
~Cyn