Alternatives to Traditional Bridal Showers
November 21, 2008
I’m going to go ahead and say this: I don’t understand the point of bridal showers. I just don’t. It seems to me that it involves silly games (that are insulting to our collective intelligence) and asking people for MORE presents (as if the wedding itself isn’t costly enough for guests). I recognize that some people want an excuse to get girlfriends together to celebrate an engagement in a non-bachelorette-party-type-of-way, so here are some alternatives to the traditional bridal shower.
Actually, before I give this list, I want to preface it by saying — remember what the point is. Traditionally, I suspect it was for older women to give guidance and recipes and house maintenance tips to the younger bride. Now, I assume that it’s to get close females together to celebrate your engagement & upcoming marriage. Bear that in mind.
- A day spa with your girlfriends. You get to spend time with the girls, gossiping and bonding – but you dont have the games. And you don’t need to ask for presents because their presence (and paying for their own spa day) is a gift in and of itself. (Note: Be aware of how much the spa day can cost!)
- Wine tasting.
- Dinner & a movie.
- A day at the beach.
- A sushi themed party. That’s right – make your own sushi, hang out, drink sake, and have a great time!
- Wine tasting (suggestion: rent a bus or shuttle so no one has to drive!)
In term of gifts, be reasonable! Consider asking your friends not to give gifts or just give a piece of advice (in keeping with the tradition). If you’re looking to give something, try something to do or something that will truly be helpful, like a massage or a photo album.
Gift Giving Etiquette
November 1, 2008
If you’re having trouble figuring out what to do about gift giving, here’s a guide for you to follow.
Timing: When do I send the gift?
Gifts can be sent as early as the wedding invitation arrives. Early, right?
The wedding has come and gone and you still haven’t sent a gift? No worries! Most resources say that you have one year after the wedding before you’re really out of etiquette code. That said, one source says that you really only have three months — which may have more to do with you remembering to send the gift rather than the etiquette of gift giving!
Gifts & Cash: What should I give and how much should I spend?
All the good gifts from the registry are gone?! No problem! You are NOT obliged to give the couple something from the registry. In fact, we have some suggestions for alternatives to registry gifts. How much do you have to spend? Whatever your budget allows + how much you like the couple.
If you want (or the couple requests), you are permitted to give cash to the couple. The amount? Whatever you’re comfortable with giving. For cash gifts, check out these handy tips about the etiquette of cash gift giving.
Absence: If I can’t attend, do I still have to send something?
Contrary to popular belief, you are only obligated to send a congratulatory card if you can’t attend the wedding; you don’t have to send a gift. Despite this, many people feel obliged to send something — in part because it further shows your congratulations, support, happiness, and regret that you cannot attend.
Looking for more info on gift giving — either as the couple or as guests? Check out our other tips on gift giving. And hey, why not consider giving the gift of a free premium photo album?