Bridal Shower Etiquette: Does The Bridal Party Have To Buy Bridal Shower Gifts?

Q: Since we have to pay for the bridal shower, are we expected to buy a gift for the shower?
A:  Yes. As friends of the bride, and even though you're hosting the shower, bridesmaids are still expected to buy a gift for the shower.  Most bridesmaids chip in and buy one large item like the china from the wedding registry.  Of course, if money is tight you can do something smaller or more heartfelt. 

Bridal Shower Etiquette: Does the Bride Have To Open Up Gifts At Her Shower?

Q: The bride has said that she doesn't want to open up gifts at her shower.  Does the bride have to open up the gifts at the shower?

A: Yes, the bride has to open up the gifts at the shower.  We can understand why some brides don't want to-some feel uncomfortable with everyone "staring" at them while they're opening the presents or some don't want to feign enthusiam for the gifts.  However, the purpose of the bridal shower is to "shower" the bride with gifts.  As a result, it is definitely expected by most of the guests, if not all, that the bride will open them at the actual shower.  If the bride doesn't, many of the guests will find it rude. 

Another consideration-if the bride doesn't open up gifts, what will the guests do instead of  watching the gift opening? Some guests have said they feel weird if the bride doesn't open up the gifts and thought,  "uhh, what are we supposed to be doing?" If the bride isn't opening up gifts, it's just a lunch with females. 

Champagne Bars-Make your own Champagne Cocktails!

Image via HiyaLuv

We just love champagne bars.  Not only are they classy but they're super appropriate for every occasion from brunch to dinner. 

You can have different champagnes for guests to try.  Or you can have a make your own champagne cocktail station. Guests love making their own drinks and the chance to customize their drinks. Added bonus-no bartender needed!

-Have plenty of champange flutes on hand. 

-Put the juices in carafes with labels and suggested recipes.

-Have 2 or 3 juice choices on hand.

Suggested Recipes:

Mimosa-A classic for brunch!

Ingredients:

2 oz. Orange juice

Champagne
Mix to taste.

Passion Mimosa-An updated take on the classic with passionfruit juice instead of orange!
1oz. Passionfruit Juice

4oz Champagne

2 fresh strawberries
Mix. 
Cranberry Champagne Cocktail
2 oz. Cranberry Juice
3 oz. Champagne
Mix.

American Glory Cocktail-a great choice for spring and summer days!2 oz Orange Juice
2 oz Lemonade
3 oz Champagne

Mix.


Mango Bellini

1 part Mango Juice
2 parts Champagne
Mix.