Often the bridal shower is a time when friends from all stages of the bride's life meet for the first time. Make it a sharing time when each of her friends can share their fondest memories of the friendship they've shared. Have each shower guest bring a favorite photo of a time or event they shared with the bride, and compile them in a special scrapbook as a heartfelt gift for her.

Co-ed showers are common today, and can ease the tension as the bridal party not only carries out their duties as attendants, but gets to know the people they are spending the day with. Break the ice early with a picnic, luau, ski weekend, beach party, brewery tour, river float, or even a scavenger hunt. The better your bridal party knows each other, the more fun they'll have on your wedding day.

Today, vibrant colors and modern themes are wonderful ideas for bridal shower invitations. Whether it is a classic silhouette design with a modern twist or toile bridal shower invitations, paper is a wonderful way to make a statement about you and the party.

Cute favor ideas for a beach-themed shower:

Whether co-ed or traditional women only, the bridal shower can be more fun with a theme. Make it a casino night, a pool party, or a beauty make-over. Gift themes are also fun and can be personalized for the bride. Have a "Gardening Party" for the bride with a green thumb, or a "Library Luau" for the bookworm.

Shower Theme Ideas