Bridal parties serve as the kickoff for the main event, and they can set the stage for the special day to come. Everyone wants to plan the perfect party to shower the bride with love and attention, but mistakes are sometimes made, unbeknownst to the planner, often until the event. 

Here are some common faux pas and ways you can avoid them.

Wedding Etiquette for the Bridal Party

LET THE BRIDE CHOOSE THE GUEST LIST

Don’t surprise her by trying to manage the guest list yourself; you’ll inevitably miss someone or invite someone who is not welcome. 

  • Is it a couple’s event or just for the women?
  • Does she want to invite the groom to be? 
  • Does she prefer adults only, or are children welcome? 

PLAN AMPLE TIME BETWEEN THE BRIDAL SHOWER AND THE WEDDING

The bride should have some say in the timeline as well. Typically, wedding showers are held a few weeks before the wedding, but there are exceptions. If special guests are traveling in from out of town, for instance, she may ask you to plan the shower around them. 

ASK THE BRIDE FOR HER VISION AND COMMUNICATE, COMMUNICATE, COMMUNICATE

Never disrespect the wishes of the bride. This is her special day, and it’s the planner’s job to make sure everything is to her wishes. Brides typically have an overall vision of how they want the party to go and are glad to share. 

ACCEPT HELP

Doing it all yourself takes the fun from everyone else. Remember, this event isn’t about you, it’s about the couple and their loved ones. 

Allow people to help with the planning, decorations, even the budget if they offer. 

MAKE A BUDGET 

… And stick with it! 

Never ever complain about the budget, but do be realistic with it. If there is a gap between the budget and the bride’s vision, see where you can save. For instance, maybe she has a friend willing to do the decorations or make the dessert. Also, check with the venue because frequently, weekday events are much less expensive than weekend ones if the bride is open to that. 

SEND INVITES IN PLENTY OF TIME

If you know the shower date, that can be included in the “Save The Date” and send out individual invitations at least three weeks prior. Be sure to include the registry information on the invitation. 

PLAN A VENUE EVERYONE WILL BE COMFORTABLE WITH

A venue that has ample space and is easily accessible is always best. Furthermore, make sure there is room for any activities you have planned, including meals, games, and dessert. The Bowden is a wonderful place to help with all of that! Floor to ceiling windows and a beautiful patio. It’s a wonderful sneak peek into the big day!

IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT YOU

From the time you agree to be in the wedding party, your job is to ensure the bride has everything she needs at all times. Don’t make the day about you, this is the bride’s day and her wishes. You are there to ensure her needs are met.

Never, ever drink in excess at any of the wedding events. 

One final note: Don’t sweat the small stuff, just love on the bride to be and the day will be lovely. At The Bowden, we love showering brides with luxury and beauty, and we also enjoy helping bridal parties in any way possible. We have suites for both the bride and groom parties to get ready in, a lovely patio for brunch, and side rooms for bridal showers. So reach out to our planners to go over your ideas today. Reach out to us here >>