do bridal shower invites go out before wedding invites
Bridal shower invitations are typically sent out before wedding invitations. This is because the bridal shower is usually held a few weeks or months before the wedding, giving guests time to prepare and attend both events. Generally, shower invites go out 4-6 weeks before the shower, while wedding invites are sent 6-8 weeks before the wedding.
who do you invite to a bridal shower from the grooms side
From the groom's side, you typically invite close family members such as the groom's parents, siblings, and grandparents. Depending on the couple's preferences and the event's size, you might also include close aunts, uncles, cousins, or even the groom himself if it's a co-ed shower. The key is to focus on those who have a strong relationship with the bride and groom to keep the guest list intimate and meaningful.
when to send out wedding invitations
The general rule is to send wedding invitations 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding date. This timeframe allows guests enough time to RSVP, make travel arrangements, and plan their attendance. For destination weddings, holidays, or peak travel seasons, send them 2 to 3 months in advance to accommodate additional planning needs. If you're using save-the-date cards, send those 6 to 8 months ahead for major events. Factors like guest list size and any special circumstances can influence the timing, so aim to confirm RSVPs at least 2 to 3 weeks before finalizing details.
when to rsvp for bridal shower
Typically, you should RSVP for a bridal shower by the date specified on the invitation, which is often 1 to 2 weeks before the event. This allows the host to finalize details like guest lists, food, and seating. If no deadline is provided, respond as soon as possible, ideally within a week of receiving the invitation, to be courteous and help with planning. Always confirm your attendance or regrets through the method indicated, such as email, phone, or an online platform.
bridal shower rsvp wording
Sample RSVP wording for a bridal shower:
- "Please RSVP by [date] to [your name or host's name] at [phone number or email address]."
- "Kindly confirm your attendance for the bridal shower by [date]. Contact [host's name] at [phone or email]."
- "Will you be joining us? RSVP yes or no by [date] via [phone, email, or website]."
- "Let us know if you're attending the bridal shower. Reply by [date] to [contact info], including the number of guests."
- "RSVP by [date] to help us plan – email [address] or call [phone number]."
- "Please respond by [date] if you'll be celebrating with us. Text [phone number] or email [address]."
- "Confirm your spot at the bridal shower by [date]. Reach out to [host's name] at [contact info]."
- "We're excited to hear from you! RSVP by [date] via [method], and let us know if you have any dietary needs."
- "Please let us know by [date] if you'll attend – call [phone] or email [address]."
- "RSVP for the bridal shower by [date] to [contact info] to ensure we have enough treats for everyone!"
who to invite to bridal shower vs bachelorette party
For a bridal shower, invite the bride's immediate and extended family (such as parents, siblings, aunts, and grandparents), close female friends, and sometimes co-workers or acquaintances who are part of her social circle, as it's a more inclusive event focused on celebration and gifts.
For a bachelorette party, invite only the bride's closest friends—typically a smaller, more intimate group—who are comfortable with potentially adult-oriented activities, while generally excluding family members to keep the atmosphere fun, relaxed, and private.
invited to bridal shower but not wedding
Being invited to a bridal shower but not the wedding can feel confusing or hurtful, but it's often due to practical reasons like budget limits, venue capacity, or the couple wanting a smaller guest list. Here's how to handle it:
- **Decide on attendance**: You can choose to attend the shower if you enjoy the relationship with the bride and want to celebrate, but you're not obligated. If it feels awkward, it's okay to politely decline.
- **Gifting etiquette**: A gift for the shower is customary, as it's a separate event. Keep it modest and appropriate for your relationship. You don't need to give anything for the wedding since you're not invited.
- **Manage your feelings**: It's normal to feel slighted, but try not to take it personally—weddings involve tough decisions. If you're close to the bride, you could gently ask for clarification in a non-confrontational way, like, "I was happy to be invited to the shower, but I noticed I didn't get a wedding invite. Is everything okay?"
- **Respond politely**: Thank the host for the shower invitation and respond promptly, whether you're accepting or declining. Avoid discussing the wedding exclusion directly unless it comes up naturally.
Remember, this doesn't diminish your relationship with the bride; it's just one event.
bridal shower games
Bridal shower games are fun activities designed to entertain guests and celebrate the bride-to-be. Popular options include Bridal Bingo, where players mark items on a card as they're mentioned during the event; the Newlywed Game, featuring trivia questions about the couple's relationship; Toilet Paper Wedding Dress, in which teams use toilet paper to create a makeshift gown; What's in Your Purse, where guests compete to find specific items in their bags; Pin the Bouquet on the Bride, a variation of pin the tail on the donkey; Two Truths and a Lie, with statements about the bride that guests must guess; Wedding Pictionary, involving drawing wedding-related words; and Guess the Dress, where participants predict details about the bride's wedding attire. These games can be adapted for different group sizes and often include prizes to keep things engaging.