What. When. And who’s throwing it.
Your wedding day is the culmination of several mini celebrations leading up to the highly-anticipated event. Those celebrations include the engagement party, bridal showers, bachelorette party and rehearsal dinner.
Who’s keeping track of all these parties? And who throws what? We’ll help you sort through the party madness to get the party started.
The Engagement Party
A cocktail or dinner party to announce the exciting news to family and friends.
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When
Usually 1-3 months after the proposal. (Although, potentially later if it’s a long engagement.)
Who’s the host
Traditionally, the couple’s parents throw the engagement party. However, with more couples living far from their parents, a relative, close friend or even the couple themselves can host the party.
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Party Tip
Create a list of addresses to make it easy for you or your parents to send invitations. And remember, engagement party guests will be expecting a wedding invitation, so if you plan on a small, intimate wedding, make this clear on the invitation. And remember to send invitations out 4-6 weeks ahead of time to give people time to plan. |
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The Bridal Shower
A special gathering to “shower” the bride with congratulatory wishes and gifts. Usually comprised of close female friends and family, although co-ed showers are becoming more common.
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When
Usually 1-2 months before the wedding.
Who’s the host
The maid of honor, bridesmaids or your mother’s close friends.
Party Tip
Create a bridal party Share site so your girlfriends can coordinate the
pre-wedding party planning. Add the names and addresses of guests for the shower host. Then promise not to check the site so you don’t ruin any surprises they may have in store. (And don’t!) After the event, the bridal shower hosts can add pictures to the Share site for everyone to see.
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The Bachelorette Party
The bachelorette party is a chance for some girlfriend time before the wedding. Make a girls weekend out of it with pamper-filled activities or have a karaoke-style slumber party.
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When
A few weeks before the wedding.
Who’s the host
The maid of honor.
Party Tip
Let your girlfriends know the kind of bachelorette party you’d like to have. If you’re in the mood for a low-key spa day then you won’t get surprised with a night on the town, and vice versa.
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The Rehearsal Dinner
The dinner party held after the wedding rehearsal. This is a more relaxed event when your families can be together before the wedding.
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When
Following the wedding rehearsal, which is usually the night before the wedding.
Who’s the host
Traditionally the groom’s parents throw the rehearsal dinner.
Party Tip
Be sure to have a photographer for the rehearsal dinner party. Nothing formal necessary—a close friend or relative is perfect for this task. There will be some wonderful moments from this event that you’ll want captured.
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