Working Wives & Bachelorettes: Almost There

The bridal shower: the “almost there” point leading up to your wedding. Last weekend, I was lucky enough to have a BEAUTIFUL shower hosted by my best friends in the whole wide world! Which means, we are almost there! (less than 60 days)

The bridesmaids have very important duties. Being a bridesmaid a few times myself, this, I know. And really, all women know -- showers aren’t fun. It’s something you do because you love the person you are honoring and you grin and bear your way through the toilet paper dress making, eye-spy, and a plethora of other ridiculous games.

That was my #1 stipulation for my shower – other than this, I gave no input. I wanted NO stupid games! None. I’m sorry, but as I said before, no one actually likes them, unless you happen to be the 10 year old junior bridesmaid or flower girl.

And in my case, more than 130 invites went out for the shower! How on earth do you keep that many women entertained for a couple hours? For real. In actuality, around 80 attended.

Separately, the venue was decorated amazingly – props to my MOH and BMs. I continue to receive compliments.

But brides, and brides to be – being the absolute center of attention in a room full of women, some of which you have never met in your life – is a bit intimidating. There is nothing more awkward than the moment you open a card and gift from an individual you have never met, and quickly scan the room to do a quick thank you. Now, really, I am thankful for the gift, and I appreciate you getting all my towels, but “From Jill & Jack” on a card just isn’t going to cut it. I need last names people! Make a note to yourself next time, for the bride’s sake, if you are attending a wedding shower - sign your last name (unless you happen to be the BFF).

Now, maybe for people who have had smaller showers, this won’t be a big deal, but how on earth do you get to say hello to everyone. 80 women? Sheesh! I could have spent the two hours wandering from table to table to see how everyone is doing (and perhaps meet “Jill”), but it’s impossible. I feel terrible knowing that I barely got to spend any time with my family members who made it in from out of town just for these three short hours.

Another note – watch your choice of outfit. I was super pumped to purchase a new, cute dress for the occasion, even got me some sweet, new kicks to go with it! But it is a fine art being able to finagle heavy boxes and tear through wrapping paper in 5 inch stilettos and a short dress, all whilst trying to keep your legs crossed and be a “lady.”

Opening the gifts is fun. It’s like Christmas, but only with kitchen and household appliances. And you never realized how much fun a margarita machine can be until you have one (buy one, you don’t know what you are missing).

Ladies, if you are planning a shower for a friend – get in touch with my friends for tips, they did a fabulous job. I had a family member tell me that my MOH should quit her day job and take on event planning full time! If you are a bride to be, like me, soak this day it. It’s your “almost there” point. The final countdown has begun!