If you're in charge of planning that perfect bridal shower for your friend or family member, you may find yourself stuck in a rut of traditional shower ideas. But, before you resign yourself to an afternoon of paper decorations, hors d'oeuvres, and musical chairs, check out these funky alternative parties that will wow any bride and her friends.
Wine or Beer Tasting. Local wineries and microbreweries are popping up all over the map, so there's a good chance that there are some in your area. Take advantage of these by planning a day of visiting 3 or 4 of your favorites and discovering some new flavors. Hire a limo service to ferry your shower guests around so that no one is driving and everyone can participate as much or as little as they wish. Be sure to include some foods — either at the winery/brewery or on the limo itself — so that everyone stays well fed and happy.
High Tea. If you have a reserved, traditional bride or a lot of older ladies on your shower guest list, why not treat them to a classic high tea? You can often book high tea options at local restaurants or high-end hotels, or you can plan one on your own. Vintage tea pots can often be found at second hand stores or borrowed from friends. Serve about a half dozen tea options and complement them with a selection of finger sandwiches, quiches, fruits, and vegetables. Encourage guests to dress up for the event — especially in hats and gloves — and consider picking them up in a rented limo for that extra special touch. For more information, contact local professionals like Ambassador Limousine.
Cooking Demo. If your friends are foodies — or if the bride could use some helpful tips on getting her kitchen set up in her new home — consider planning a cooking demonstration evening. Ask experienced family or friends to bring their favorite recipes to teach to the younger generation or have everyone bring a recipe to share with the group. Or talk with a local cooking store or community college instructor to see if there's a professional willing to give you a cooking class for the evening. Decorate with cooking items and let guests know that gifts should be in the kitchen theme.
Get Crafty. Get everyone out of the house for a fun and artistic craft evening that requires little set up from you. Many communities now house shops that offer pottery classes, sewing classes, painting classes (often with wine!), or scrapbooking classes. With a crafty bridal shower, everyone will have a memorable evening and have a souvenir to take home with them. Want bonus points with the bride? Have her guests make something for her, either together or as a group.
Any one of these alternative bridal shower ideas can make for a fun and exciting replacement for the traditional party. And you will doubtless be remembered one of the heroes of the wedding planning season.
