Guest Author - Sandra Sable
Budget
Do not overspend — find out who has what that you can borrow before you rent or buy.
Location
The shower should be held wherever is most convenient to the party, including you.
Consider weather, number of guests, time of day, temperature control (inside and outside), as well as the location of the bride.
Assistance
Don't be afraid to ask for help. Young adults are usually enthusiastic assistants.
Food preparation
You should enjoy the party as well, so have it catered
Over-estimate the amount of food you will need
Plan for temperature control
Ice-chests, a neighbors fridge or a rented cooling unit will be fine
Borrow or rent chaffing dishes or hotplates
Serving the guests should have trays when a table is not available
If serving buffet style be sure to spread it around so the entire party is not cramped around one table.
Cleanup
Have your assistants or appointed cleaners clean as you go, it will save time in the end.
Decor
The theme should be something that appeals to the bride, a hobby or an interest or even a direct cross with the wedding ceremony.
Supplies you may need include:
Film for your camera
Guest soaps
Hand towels
Lotion
EXTRA toilet paper
Fresh flowers
Potpourri
Candles
Chairs
Tablecloths
Ice chest or cooling unit
Hot plates
Centerpieces
Silk flowers
Music
Pencils and paper for games
Serving trays
Relish dishes
Snack bowls or trays
Additional rented or borrowed tables
Invitations
Seating Cards
Atmosphere
Candle in the bathroom
Fresh flowers in the entry hall
Music
Lighting
Coordinated items
Simple pleasures can add class and atmosphere to any function. The more original your atmosphere, the longer the event will be remembered.
Activities
Shower games
Eating
Any lap trays you may have to purchase could be given away as party favors or prizes or make a much appreciated prize that is not too expensive.
Select a viewable opening area (possibly a corner)
Have one of the assistants write down who gave the bride what
Guests
Plan the event in stages. Follow the guests lead, watch their moods and try to accommodate.
Try to invite guests who know each other or at least one other person.
Use seating cards for the shower, fill them out as you receive the confirmations
Plan seating so that it promotes conversation
If you have a co-ed shower, separate the spouses to increase extra-marital conversation
Assign the role of photographer to someone who will step out of the crowd for that special shot, but who will not dominate the attentions of the bride.
