Your bridal shower builds so many conflicting types of expectations, chief among them: doves, harps and your flirty white dress fantasy. In reality, bridal showers can run the gamut – from a traditional living room fete to a hotel ballroom blowout. What I learned before, during and after my bridal shower is that breathing and enjoying the moment is the most important ingredient in a recipe for joy.
Though the bride’s family is not traditionally responsible for hosting or throwing the bridal shower, it seems like today all eyes fall on the bride during the planning process. “Have you thought about the colors you like,” “do you think you’re looking for more or less attendees,” “out of the following twenty different scenarios, which ones do you like the best,” and “whom would you like to throw you the party?” What I found out – and fast – was that I was content with any option as long as it did not involve me. It’s a natural feeling to want to own every aspect of your day; for many, your year; and, for a crazy select few, your future. But when it comes to the bridal shower, my word of advice is to let go and direct calls to voicemail.
The day of my bridal shower the skies opened up, but there were beautiful flowers all over the city and I had a sweet dress to wear, which was procured 16 hours beforehand in a frenzied dash around every clothing store in a three mile radius. I got my hair blown out, and it fell out. I spent an inordinate amount of time on my makeup, and it wilted before I arrived. I tried every jewelry pairing possible and ended up with some random choices and some tired-and-true (if not worse for the wear) pumps. On my way to the event, I started to whimper and tear-up.
What my fiancé reminded me of in the car, and what my mother sweetly sent via text (always ending in “XOXOXO,” naturally), was that until I was able to let go, there would not be one detail I would be able to enjoy. Until I could embrace the imperfections, I could never appreciate this unique day. Sure enough, when I arrived and felt showered with love, all of my other cares evaporated. I only wished I could have alleviated some anxiety in advance.
My tips for a fun-filled and worry-free bridal shower:
– Don’t go global: your hair and makeup may not be perfect and your shoes may be old, but the only thing people will want to see on you is your smile. Just think about the minute you’re in and forget the rest.
– Bring a camera: these special moments happen in a flash. My digital camera broke, so I handed my iPhone to a bridesmaid and politely imposed paparazzi duty.
– Toast to yourself: bubbly is the best way to alleviate any nerves or worry. Grab some snacks and a pop a bottle from the get-go to slide into the day and become a bit more carefree.
– Make a ribbon bouquet: you may think it’s dated, cheesy, or even downright silly, but building a bouquet of ribbons for your wedding rehearsal will remind you (in photos and at home) of all of the people who care so much about you.
– Take the cake: if you have any sweet leftovers, bring them home! It’s rare to have such a delicious indulgence day-to-day and if you eat it over the course of the next couple weeks it’s not that bad, right? (I ate every last bit myself.)
Let’s raise a glass to all of the bride-to-be’s!
Collage via Polyvore: Juicy Couture / Bottega Veneta / Peony Silk Flowers / Dartington Wine Essentials / Pink Silk Rose Cake Flowers // Mimosa banner via April Foster Events // Bridal shower table via Christine Rose Elle