5 Myths About Bridal Showers in the United States

By Theresa @ Bridesmaids Confessions 

Victorian Era Brought on Bridal Showers.  

Bridal showers became popular in the US during the Victorian Era as a way to celebrate the bride, gossip, and exchange tips on marriage. Obviously this was way before the internet and social media. It was a time when you still had to connect face to face to get the latest gossip about the bride’s soon-to-be husband.

Flash forward to present day and bridal showers are an expected part of the wedding events for a U.S. bride. Although in the U.K. they aren’t popular at all, and many myths about bridal showers circulate to this day. So what is it really like to plan and attend a shower?

Myth #1: The Bride Pays for the Shower

I personally was shocked to find out over the last few months that a lot of U.K. brides don’t have showers because it’s “one more added expense.” Well put that credit card down bride-to-be because this is absolutely not the case. In fact, it couldn’t be further from the truth, as the day is intended to shower the bride with love. It helps build excitement for the upcoming nuptials.

Bridal showers are planned by the bridesmaids and sometimes family members of the couple. This means all expenses are taken on by those offering to host and help with the party. It is a gift to the bride from her closest girlfriends and female family members.

Myth #2: The Shower is ONLY for the Bride

Okay, so this one is sort of true as I’d say 80% of the shower is about celebrating the bride. However, lots of brides have a gift registry that the couple created so it includes items that the groom has picked out. I’ve been to plenty a shower where gifts included dishware, linens, and even power tools.

It is also common for the husband-to-be to attend the shower at some point. Mostly it is towards the end during the opening of the gifts. It’s a great way to thank the guests for attending and for any gifts they receive as a couple. Plus it allows for pictures of the lovebirds together on this fun day.

Myth #3: A Bridal Shower is Just a Way to Ask for Gifts

It’s easy to see how those who haven’t attended a bridal shower might think that this day is all about getting more gifts. At the heart of the shower though it is about spending time with the bride before her big day. On wedding day, the couple is being pushed and pulled in many directions so they can’t spend large amounts of time with each guest. The bridal shower allows for the bride to see her girlfriends, aunts, cousins, future-in-laws, etc. and really spend quality time with everyone attending.

Myth #4: You Have to Play Silly Games

This one is totally dependant on the personality of the bride. If she’s up for it, there are so many great activities you can try. 

From the toilet paper dress game, to offering marriage advice, to guessing the bride’s age in old photos, there are many ways to break the ice with guests. Of course, you don’t have to play silly games, but they sure are fun!

Myth #5: Bridal Showers Must be Elaborate Parties

When planning the bridal shower, you can make it as elaborate or low key as you want. Half the showers I’ve attended have been at someone’s home that was related to the bride. Often this makes it cost effective as everyone hosting pitches in to make food.

Regardless of the venue, having a theme can help set the tone of the shower. Take into consideration what you think the bride would really enjoy. Because at the end of the day, it really is all about celebrating a special time in the life of someone you truly care about.